I just recently dove into the Model RR pool at the age of 73 - but something I’ve dreamed of for many years.
Without recognizing the advance of digital technology in model RR and after spending several hundred dramas on cool looking, used (E-Bay) locos, track, rolling stock, etc, for my first layout (6’x12’), currently under construction, I questioned how multiple trains can’t run realistically on a simple DC circuit. And POOF!, came across DCC and the twentyfirst century. IDIOT.
For your older timers, can you recommend a starter DCC system that I can convince my wife is a good investment? 
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The two most popular starter systems would probably be the Digitrax Zephyr and the NCE Power Cab. If you’re an electronic/computer kind of guy, there’s also the DCC-EX that you assemble and load the code yourself.
Fair warning: This topic is like Ford vs Chevy, so be prepared for a storm of “I use this and so should you” responses!
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One of the big differences between Digitrax and NCE is that the former allows you to run locos that are not decoder equipped (one at a time). But I’m told that NCE is more user-friendly, as well as the TCS system.
Simon
I’m your age and started my first layout several years ago. I got the NCE system and have been very happy with it. It is easy to learn (although there is a learning curve for any DCC system).
Welcome to the forum, and good luck!
I chose NCE for my DCC system. I use that because that is what the club I belong to uses. If you know other modelers in your area, ask them what they use. That would make help easier and if you have operating sessions together your throttles would be compatible.
Al
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the NCE PowerCab is truly a starter set. it’s a single unit that is a command-station, bootser and controller. It has a recall feature that allows up to 6 locos to be cotrolled. but is limited to ~1.5A. Since it provide power to the track, track power is lost if moved from one plug to another.
the NCE upgrade is to a 5A system that has a command-station/booster and separate controller called a PowerPro. I believe the PowerPro also has a recall feature allowing it to control multiple locos. And because the booster is separate, the controller can be unplegged and plugged into other jacks without disrupting power to the tracks (the locos continue to move). The PowerCab can also be used with the 5A system
Digitrax offers 2 starter systems. Both are 5A and wireless.
the more expensive set uses DT602D duplex controllers. Duplex means transmission in both directions. I’m not sure what the advantages of their duplex wireless system are except that the radios and controllers are designed to operate at a higher power and farther distance.
If you have, or can acquire, a suitable computer system, I strongly recommend you consider JMRI. There is a great deal of Mickey Mouse associated in trying to program and operate DCC without suitable user interfaces, much of which has been at least simplified.
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Hi. I’m nearly 78, I started in n scale DCC about 3 years ago, after having been away for nearly 40 years. Yes, lots of changes since I dabbled in DC HO. After becoming frustrated with an NCE PowerCab, my friend offered me a (slightly) used but (essentially) mint condition ESU ECoS command station for half what it costs new. I instantly fell in love with this unit. 6x8 color graphic interface, 6A power, track plan, on and on. Overkill for most, but I think best visually, so it works for me. 3 years later my layout now nearly fills my 17x17 garage and I’ve never had more fun with a hobby. Good luck to you. Ron
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Maybe it depends on which DCC system you use? While I like JMRI Decoder Pro for recording/storing my locomotive’s CVs, I find it easier and quicker programming them using my NCE Power Cab.
I’m mainly interested in setting CV29 to 128 speed steps, disabling dual-mode (DCC-only) and reverse direction (if needed). The only other thing I might adjust is Rule 17 lighting effects. The handy TCS manuals that come with each decoder make those easy to understand and accomplish. It also helps me learn what CVs adjust what.
For more complicated CV adjustments (e.g. indexed or nested CVs), JMRI does shine. Even then, I might still program some of them manually with my Power Cab for learning purposes. For simpler CV adjustments, manually is quicker.
And, as far as operating my locomotives, I find the NCE throttles VERY intuitive use. Nothing micky mouse about it. And I can generally adjust speed and activate horn & bell one-handed - without needing to even look at the buttons.
Tom
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I converted my road to DCC about a year ago. Buying and using a system isn’t too bad, the complication comes when you retrofit locomotives. But operation has its glitches too; different manufacturers have different functions, function button assignments and CV definitions. Just stick to it and enjoy the learning.
If you are comfortable with Electronics, computers and Smart phones, then DCC-EX is going to be the least expensive option and will grow. You can add fancy throttles to it if you want, but the basic system would use your smart phone as the controller.
There is a version that comes all put together with code loaded That version though gets very close to the cost of the more “complete” starter systems.
The 3 starter systems that are easy to get in the US and are all in one with throttles are the NCE PowerCab, the Digitrax Zephyr and the TCS-LT50.
NCE and Digitrax are older designs with fewer modern features. The NCE is considered by many to be the more user friendly between the 2.
The TCS is the more recent design. The Team there were users of NCE and a lot of the design of the system is based on what they liked about NCE and what they thought could use improvement. It has a modern UI that is pretty discoverable for those who are familiar with modern interfaces. The layout of buttons is in my estimation a bit better. and the Throttle is physically smaller than the NCE. My experience is the NCE is not as comfortable except for those with larger hands.
I would predict good success with any of the 3.
My personal preference is for the TCS system. It’s the newest out there, it has greate design, great support and as of right now, it’s the cheapest to buy of the 3. My alternate would be the NCE system.
One thing I will note, both the TCS system and the NCE system require the purpose of an additional device to connect to a computer and/or support wireless throttles. Digitrax has a usb port to connect directly to a computer.
The price of that add on part equalizes the costs here a bit.
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Simple and fairly cheap (it runs with a smartphone or tablet that you probably already have):
How it works:
See also:
I personally use a Digikeijs DR5000 (not made anymore)
But… an updated version is sold as the YaMoRC YD-7001-E:
(no financial connection to the seller – this is the USA source for these)
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Though my system is Digitrax I recently purchased a TCS UWT100 throttle. It is to me by far head and shoulders above my Digitrax throttles. In my opinion TCS has taken all the best features of both Digitrax and NCE throttles. So, if their DCC system is as well thought out as this throttle I would advise you give it a thorough appraisal.
Regards, Chris
Thanks much, Chris!
So many thoughtful and excellent replies. I’m overwhelmed and humbled by all of them!
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Cripple creek, most of us here were at one time just like you, new to DCC. Most of what I’ve learned about DCC (which certainly is far from everything to know) came from this forum. You’d be surprised what you can learn if you just read all that is available here. So hang in and keep us posted on your progress and ask a lot of questions! That’s what most of us are here for.
Regards, Chris
Thanks Chris.
Spent two hrs trying to get a three E-Bay DC basket cases running. Was successful on one. But found out those tiny screws holding motor casings and contacts on are very useful for other things - like reattaching couplers on rolling stock.
And truth be told, I broke down, went to Amazon and bought a Bachmann DCC train set with two engines, controller etc. Just had to. 
Buying the 1/2" plywood sub base this week.
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Are some or all the DCC controllers capable of working with a variety of manfacturer units - e.g. Bachmann, Atlas, etc.?
manufacturers have a proprietary protocol: Digitrak uses LocoNet, NCE has cabbus
however, a smartphone running Engine Driver or a JMRI WiFi compatible throttle can typically be used with a Raspberry Pi runing JMRI
Hi Chris,
Do you mean locomotives? DCC controllers (e.g. NCE, TCS, DigiTrax, etc) will control ANY manufacturer’s locomotives outfitted with a suitable decoder. The one limitation is MTH with their proprietary DCS system. While the decoder can be controlled, you are limited with what CVs (configuration variables) you can adjust/alter.
Tom