Basically just trying to decide which system to go with. I’ve narrowed it down to Atlas, MRC, and Digitrax, and I’m aware of the benefits and drawbacks of each. If nothing else, I was thinking of going with the Atlas system to get me started, and then upgrade later. I’ve seen it used on several layouts featured in MRR, so it can’t be all that bad, even though it is limited in how much it can do as a stand alone system. Who all uses the Atlas DCC setup and could I get some feedback and opinions both good and bad regarding using it?
Honestly, I would spend a little bit more now, then you won’t have to upgrade later. The atlas system (commander) is a 2 digit address system. IF you are wanting to use DCC engines with sound, the atlas system will only partially support them. Same as the MRC prodigy system. I would recommend Digitrax, Lenz, or NCE. I have found the best deals on Lenz on ebay. I purchased a LZV 100 kit there new for $214.00. I would hate to see you purchase something that you will outgrow instead of grow into. By the way, I love the Lenz.
The Atlas system is made by Lenz, and it can be upgraded somewhat with Lenz components.
I bought the AtlasMaster system to give DCC a try (used it on a 10x10 HO layout). As far as functionality, it works fine. No problems or glitches at all. However, that said, I will probably invest in a Digitrax system this fall when I begin the newest incarnation of the Western Allegheny, as I want to use sound and some other functions that the Atlas won’t fully jibe with.
I was thinking of using the Atlas if I try to convert my N scale stuff to DCC, but I don’t know. I like my cab control on the N stuff.
Maybe I’ll start a thread here to give the AtlasMaster setup to someone who wants to try DCC, and they can then pass it on, and so on. We’ll see how many people we can get started up in the hobby with one well-cared-for basic DCC system.
On one of the R/C plane forums I belong to, they have a “pay it forward” thread for just that purpose, to pass along good equipment to someone just getting started, then that person does the same, and so on. Hmmm…
Ray out
When I was trying to make this decision I eventually realized that I would at some point outgrow the features of the Atlas Commander (Lenz model whatever). So i looked at it like a car. If I buy it now and have to sell it later to upgrade how much of my original investment can I get back. With the very slight price difference between atlas and digitrax zephyr (About thirty bucks) there’s no reason to go with the limited model first. As for MRC, I just don’t trust their record. I’m referring to their DCC record as with DC they were great. I just froogle searched for the atlas system and the zephyr. The atlas ones were around 130-150 and the digitrax was around 160 -170. I did find a place selling the zephyr for 147.99 but I think you’d have ot back order it from them. If you go the digitrax route, which I highly recommend, check out loy’s toys web site. They have always been extremely helpful and no question is a dumb one. Good luck with you’re decision.
Jesse
I would go with the Digitrax Zephyr as a starter system you can grow with - it will alway shave some use even in a full basement empire with multiple boosters and so forth - you just add on as you need more, never replacing the original unit.
The Atlas is limited to 2-digit addresses, and limited in what functions it supports out of the box. It is somewhat expandable, but if you end up needing high-end features what you end up doing is buying one of the bigger Lenz systems anyway. Also not sure if it is still true, but using the included Generator power supply with the Atlas system used to put a bit too much voltage on the track (18V - fine for O and G scale, but too much for HO and WAY too much for N.). There are a couple of sites that show how to add some diodes to cut the voltage to a more normal level.
MRC - the Prodigy Advanced looks pretty decent, but the older systems are too limited. However, I also have my doubts as to the long-term viability of the MRC system. Ther past track record has not been good - each new DCC system they have made is not in the least bit compatible with the prior system, other than their generic 8 amp booster which actually will work with ANY DCC system.
–Randy