Yes, you can purchase the PH Pro transformer separately. However, it would be more cost effective to purchase the Smart Booster (SB3a or SB5) if you were wanting more power (i.e. amperage) and versatility to your layout.
The SB3a/SB5 is a 5A booster and can be used with any NCE throttle. It will also allow you to disconnect the Power Cab from the layout w/o shutting down the entire layout. (That’s because the Power Cab is a command station/booster/throttle all rolled-up-into-one.)
If you go to the review page on my web site, there’s a review of both the original SB3 and the upgraded SB3a. NCE released their new SB5 several months ago to address the problem the older versions had when used with auto-reversers and circuit-breakers.
When we are giving advice on the forums, we always have to be mindful of our fellow members financial circumstances and hobby budget, but I will say this.
If you want to dabble in DCC, get the Power Cab.
But, if you want to grow into the hobby with maximum flexibility, get the PH Pro 5 amp system. Better yet, get the wireless version. Once you do this, you are set for life, at least until something bigger and better comes along - - LOL.
I bought the PH Pro 5 amp system ten years ago when I first got into HO scale, and it has served me well ever since.
Rich makes a good point. When I bought my Lenz System 100, one of the selling points was that it was a 5-amp system. At the time, some other systems were in the 2-amp range. Yes, they are expandable, but boosters are expensive. If you go with a 5-amp system, you will never have to worry about running a room-sized layout, unless you hit the lottery, and then, well, you won’t have to worry about anything, right?
Enjoy your DCC system. You’re on the right track. When I started mine up for the first time, it took 50 years off my life, but in a good way. When I picked up the throttle and ran my first engine down the short run of track I had laid, suddenly I was 8 years old again, and loving it.
Funny you say budget, because I forgot to mention that yes, I am good financially just not enough for those $300+ systems. The power cab is only $150 ish and that works for me. I’m glad you consider that because I am doing the best I can with what I have. I have a lot for a low budget so that’s why I want to make the best of it.
I’ll check out the PH Pro and definately upgrade to that in the future. You guys helped me out so much and I thank you for that. No one else seemed to be able to answer my questions, so I greatly appreciate it.