Some of you may know from my other posts around the forum that I am pretty new at all this. I currently run my layout with a Bachmann black power pack with the red handle from a set. I do not like this power pack. It really only has like 4 steps of power regardless of what % it says you are at. I want a new power pack, but am not quite ready to step up to DCC, maybe soon, but not now.
So, any suggestions for a decent power pack (only powering one/two locos) for under $45? If I need to go up so be it, but I do not need the best, just better. lol
I have 2 suggestions - one a little more ambitious than the other.
For a step up in a commercial power pack, buy a new or used Tech series power pack by MRC. Any Tech 2 or newer in good condition should be a nice improvement over what you have. If buying used, you need to verify that all functions are working correctly, and the cord is in good condition.
The more ambitious (but not all that difficult) option is to build your own handheld transistor throttle. You can use the Bachmann as the power supply for the throttle until you find you need more power (bigger power supply). The throttle can be a very simple unit like the one I built to use with a broken AHM train set power pack:
