I noticed that Model Railroad News has added a feature when they review a new locomotive. They show how the DCC decoder is installed. I find this part of their articles to be very helpful. Obviously for some of the established plug & play locos (like Kato), installing the decoder is so simple that it is not worth mentioning. However, in the new Athearn RTR locos, such as the GP60M, there are a couple of optional way to install the decoders. Discussing the pros and cons of each was of interest. Also in the prior month Model Railroad News reviewed Con-Cor’s HO scale galloping goose. The decoder installation is not as straight forward on that one. I, for one, would appreciate it if Model Railroader added similar commentary (with photos) when they review locomotives.
I second this opinion.
I agree, this kind of information is always very useful.
Tom Watkins
Here Here.
Im just getting ready to put in DCC in my Loco’s … so this would prove very helpful.
Craig
As much as i like reading your magazine, the reviews are allways the same. I have yet to see you review a model you don’t like or won’t recomend. Is this because all the products out there is good stuff, or are you easily pleased. Maybe if you rated the product (1 to 10) it would help us to know the good from bad.
Reply: as to rating system… 1= best or worst, but do agree on very few poor, or negative reviews.
The MRC F7 got a poor review. IF it has a review in MR, it most likely a pretty good product.