DCC for under $200?

well, as im sure you know, in my thread about building walkaround throttles, a lot of people told me to go with DCC. Now, i can do that, but im on a real low budget, so does anyone know of a DCC system available for say… under $200?

In the USA, there are three basic DCC sets that are $20-$30 under $200, if you hunt around:

Atlas Master
Digitrax Zephyr
MRC Prodigy

The Atlas system is made by Lenz, who also makes systems for Roco and Marklin.

Of course, these are basic systems consisting of a power supply and base station/throttle. You still have to buy decoders seperately ($17 is the cheapest I’ve seen), as well as other throttles and accessories. If you want a $200 set, you’re REALLY looking at at least a $300 set, once you factor in a second cab and a couple of basic decoders (not to mention wire, fascia panels, etc)

The best entry level system currently available is the Digitrax Zephyr, of the three listed above. I know if you shop one of the internet companies you should be able to get a good price on it. If you don’t have a credit card or it is maxed out, you can send a money order.

Two mail order companies I always here good about are 1) Loy’sToys and 2) Tony’sTrains.

I agree - my Z is great!

I got it thru Tony’s.

  • George

I really like my Atlas Commander and it was $120. If you add the walk-around throttle, that will be another $100. It is easy to use and the throttle is so “1-hand-friendly”.

Just my thoughts.