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I'm to the point I can start running trains and am ready to install a dcc system. I'm looking at the MRC Prodigy Advanced2 or the Digitrax Super Empire Builder. My layout is relatively small and simple but I have one thing I want to be able to do.
A train with two units comes to a junction, stops, the two units split apart, one takes half the train up the branch while the other continues on the main with the rest of the train. Can I do this with either system?
As Dave says, you can do it with either system. The question really comes down to is how easy is it to do with either system? I would recommend that you go to your LHS and try these systems out and see what works better for you.
Digitrax gear is backwards compatible when new products are released. I learned the hard way with MRC. As for the SEB, I'd also suggest the Zephyr or, if money isn't tight, go with the Super Chief. The SEB doesn't read CVs!
Or, if money is really tight, go with the Bachmann E-Z command system. You can often find them on e-bay for $60 and they are very appropriate for small layouts. The will run up to 9 trains and the controls are very easy and intuitive to use. The only issue is that it doesn't use CV values above 10 but those cover the major functions of most DCC decoders and sound cards. If you want to really adjust lots of properties with your engines, like ditch light flash rate, then I'd go with a Digitrax.
This is a good question I would also like so insite on...I looked at the MRC unit today at my LHS and I must say it looks like a good buy for what you get. I was shown how to bring a loco up and operate the diffrent features.I liked that It has 3 ports for the hand held remotes. not that I would ever use all 3 on my small layout but nice and simple if it was just me or a friend and I running the trains.. also the option for a wireless remote was cool but expencive!. I have not seen or operated a digitrax unit. How do they compair to the MRC? pros cons?
I realy will only be using a dcc system to switch a train in a yard wile I have a train out on the mainline doing circles. im really not into the bells and lights...at least not yet LOL
I use a Prodigy Advance2, and have no problems with it. When I first got it, it was just an advance, but I sent it to MRC and had it upgraded to Squared for $50, just to use the extra functions avail with the Blueline locos. But I think I paid $160 for my system off Ebay, new in the box. So I've got $210 in mine right now. The wireless handheld can be bought for $140 on Ebay and its backwards compatable with the Advance/2/express systems. They're talking about the computer interface on the yahoo group, and its projected release date of the winter. It will be available as both wired and wireless interface. So that will be interesting. You can use a advance/2/express handheld with either the advance or express systems.
I can't comment on other systems (digitrax or NCE) as I've never used them. But I have had the Roco system, and didnt have a problem with it either, other than 2 digit address.
I'm to the point I can start running trains and am ready to install a dcc system. I'm looking at the MRC Prodigy Advanced2 or the Digitrax Super Empire Builder. My layout is relatively small and simple but I have one thing I want to be able to do.
A train with two units comes to a junction, stops, the two units split apart, one takes half the train up the branch while the other continues on the main with the rest of the train. Can I do this with either system?
I'm all most sure you can do this with most systems. I just happen to have a NEC system. You would set up a consist of the units say (2000 and 2001) 2000 being the front uint and 2001 being the second unit some where in the train. With the consist being in place the unit 2000 will control both units 2000 and 2001. When you arrive at the junction you delete or clear the consit and the units will now run separately.
I just bought my first DCC unit yesterday.. I went with the Advanced 2 squared from an online store suggested buy member... ThoroughBreed... I think with the options it has and the cost I got it for ($230ish shipped) it was the best way to go for a"starter unit" it has more options than I will likely ever use... I liked the look and that its user friendly. I have used MRC for many years. I felt this was just another reason to stick with them.
If you don't mind not being able to read CV's (you can keep marginal notes, or keep a file on each engine if you are organized), the Super Empire Builder is a great system...if old. It is about the oldest nag in Digitrax's stable. Pluses are the 5 amp DB 150 (you must pay for the power supply, so remember to order one!) and the outstanding two-loco DT 400 throttle...I think it is head and shoulders above the single-loco throttles out there for that reason alone. Of course, some would say they'd like larger buttons than those found on the DT 400...oh, well..it just means you should try them all if possible and see what floats yer boat.
I just bought my first DCC unit yesterday.. I went with the Advanced 2 squared from an online store suggested buy member... ThoroughBreed... I think with the options it has and the cost I got it for ($230ish shipped) it was the best way to go for a"starter unit" it has more options than I will likely ever use... I liked the look and that its user friendly. I have used MRC for many years. I felt this was just another reason to stick with them.
After looking around I think I've setteled on the Zypher starter set from Southern Digital. It looks like it will do everything I want to is expandable should I ever want to, and is a price I can live with.
Complete Zephyr Starter Set Includes:
DCS-50 Booster Command Station/Power Booster and Throttle (rated at 3 amp power output)
Digitrax Universal Throttle (UT-4)
PS-315 Power Supply
Walk-Around Panel (UP-5) + Cable
2 Digitrax Basic Decoders (HO or N-Scale)
Decoder Test Kit.
Digitrax Zephyr User Manuel
Digitrax Decoder Manual.
Mail in 1 Year Warrantee
I too have the Digitrax Zephyr decoder and my son and I love it, although, the learning curve can be a little steep. We both really like the throttle control. The starter set price seems like a great deal to me.
