I wanted a 5 amp system with wireless throttle(s).
I’ve read all the current threads on selecting a DCC system and probably most of the archived threads. My initial short list included NCE, Digitrax and MRC.
After digesting all the comments, checking out the manufacturers web sites and downloading the user manuals, I’ve made my selection.
A few brief factors that influenced my difficult decision:
I really like the looks of the MRC throttle but was not comfortable with the system functionality and potential future upgrade path(s).
NCE also has a decent looking throttle but I was a bit leery about the “polling” method used for system-wide communications. It probably isn’t a major problem but with my computer networking background, it just didn’t set well with me.
-Digitrax has the least appealing throttle as far as I’m concerned but I’m sure it’s very capable. I like the “event driven” method of system communications that it uses. I like the loconet concept; the availability of add-ons; and the functionality present in the system.
-The cost of the system was not factored into my decision. No (worthwhile) system is going to be cheap but for long term satisfaction - reliability and functionality trump price.
So, after several months of pondering, I just ordered a Digitrax Super Chief Xtra set. Time and experience will tell if I made a wise choice.
And you will have a good system indeed but when you compare with NCE,it’s still the Ford/Chevrolet choice,both good systems but you select the one you’re the most comfortable with.MRC’s…questionable…
You made a good choice. One thing about the digitrax system is that it’s a really techy system (in that; there are just more buttons to press than most systems) but once you’ve learned to use it, all the added features out weigh most of the competitor’s systems…chuck
Early last year I went thru the same decision making process, and ended up with a toss-up between NCE & Digitrax. I ended with the Digitrax (Super Chief and Empire Builder), and got mostly NCE decoders.
Frankly, I liked the appearance and feel of the NCE throttle more so than the Digitrax DT-400s. But, like I was advised at the time, I would soon get comfortable with the DT-400s, and I have.
This thread ended up veering waaaaay off topic with the car and auto industry discussion and I ended up deleting nearly 3 pages of posts. Let’s keep the converstion train-related and on topic. Thanks. [:)]
Thanks for the insights… I am contemplating DCC moving away from old school DC to new school… Our local NMRA chapter seems to be satisfied with the Digitrax also… I am on the fence and feel I’m juping into Digitrax yard [8D]
I can’t recall if I put my [2c] in yet (age, you know…), but I tell people that if they understand DCC and know what capabilities and features they absolutely rock bottom must have, any system on the market today will have you running trains with a smile on your face within 30 minutes…or less. If you read the instructions, maybe add 10 minutes.
Seriously, the products are well designed and executed, and anyone with no preconceived notions or biases (open minded) would find themselves having a lot of fun with any of them…pick three or four meeting your basic needs, and select any one of them using the petals on a daisy or use dice. You’ll not look back.
While I generally agree with what you are saying, and think it would be true for many, I have to say that for some, like me, there are certain features that are critical to maximum enjoyment of a system. So I would still encourage detailed research and personal trial of various systems if possible.