also I've read that you can insert your own sounds and have them come out from the tender, will both of these control systems do that?
im just learning about MTH and I want my new imperial locomotive to run at its full potential. So if I can get away with the less expensive table top unit I probably would buy that one to save some money.
thank you in advance!
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The DCS Remote Commander is a remote control that's intended to operate 1 MTH DCS (PS2/PS3) engine at a time, of any scale, with a subset of DCS commands. It requires that the engine being operated has its settings at factory defaults. Click here to go to MTH's web page for the device.
The DCS Commander is a stationary device that's intended to operate HO DCS engines with most, but not all, DCS features and functions. Click here to go to MTH's web page for the device.
This and a whole lot more is all in “The DCS Companion 3rd Edition", available for purchase from many fine OGR advertisers and forum sponsors, or as an eBook or a printed book at OGR’s web store!
You will want the full DCS Remote Control Set (50-1001 TIU & Remote) for operating your MTH DCS engines at their full potential. With either of the others you mention you will be wishing you would have gotten the full DCS Remote Control Set to begin with.
I also recommend Barry's book from the post above. Well worth it's price, lots of good information there.
Wyatts dad posted:also I've read that you can insert your own sounds and have them come out from the tender, will both of these control systems do that?
Sorry, no saving money here. You need the full DCS Remote Control Set with the enhanced remote and TIU in order to play your own sounds through the speakers. The TIU has 2 input ports for attaching external audio devices. The Proto-Dispatch port is for connecting a microphone so you can talk through the train speakers. The Proto-Cast port is for connecting an external device, such as an iPod, cellphone, etc., so you can play sounds through the train speakers. Buttons on the Remote activate these features. The Proto-Cast feature works well for playing Christmas music during the holidays, though it helps to turn off engine sounds when doing so, especially steamers. Both features are kind of novelties, but unless all you plan to buy is the one engine, the set is well worth the price for all the capabilities it provides.
I have the Commander and used that for a while. It's a nice unit but if you want really enjoy DCS, spend the extra cash and get the TIU and remote per Barry's recommendation. For a little more money you get a whole lot more capability.
Okay I get it.. if I don't buy it now, I would end up with it eventually.
tjank you everyone for the good information and advice!
Mike
MTH DCS remote commander is a DCS light version. Small, handy remote like a pocket-size remote. I am a Legacy and TMCC operator who prefers to use Lionel's system but my honest opinion is the remote commander is by far priced well and easy to use in any MTH starter set to attract young folks into the hobby.
Yes, it only operates 1 proto 2 engine set at or reset to factory default but it works very well. It serves my purpose for some of the unique proto 2 engines that I have which no other manufacturer will ever produce.
I know my friend ,Barry, will chime in here that I am missing a lot of built in features not using DCS but it the commander does what I want.
Highly recommend buying the remote commander if you are on the fence going to the full DCS system. It is not expensive at all.
Ted,
Highly recommend buying the remote commander if you are on the fence going to the full DCS system. It is not expensive at all.
I agree. It's an inexpensive way to sample some of the DCS features before committing to a full DCS TIU and remote.
The DCS Companion 3rd Edition discusses the DCS Remote Commander in considerable detail, including some things that aren't in the device's MTH User Guide.
This and a whole lot more is all in “The DCS Companion 3rd Edition", available for purchase from many fine OGR advertisers and forum sponsors, or as an eBook or a printed book at OGR’s web store!
Thank you everyone, I have the affordable remote already and I agree it's very cool.
I just know at some point I'll want to have full access and I couldn't make up my mind about the table top version or spending a little extra and getting the full feature remote. And I like the idea of being able to record my own sounds and the table top remote doesn't do that from what it sounds like. Plus having a remote is pretty **** awesome. We have one for our lionchief set and being able to control the train from the couch is pretty great! 
i do have to say I love this new MTH Berkshire. And being able to access all the sounds, light etc.. Is pretty amazing. It goes way beyond just watching something go around in a circle on a track.. My son loves it. Trains to him are like Star Wars is to most people. He is three and woke up the other morning yelling, trains? Trains! First words from sleeping all night. Lol
So, thank you again all!
Mike
Wyatt's Dad,
I also recommend you purchase the full DCS package, and at least one Z-4000 with the Remote Commander Side Receiver to open up all kinds of remote control running options of both Conventional & P2/P3 Engines. Simply great remote control engineering that is lot of fun for your O gauge layout. Invest in Barry's DCS O Gauge Companion Book and the OGR Video Guide to DCS and have a great time building & introducing your son to his new remote control DCS layout. Later add the Legacy package and enjoy both MTH DCS and Lionel Legacy on the same layout. I only wish I had the opportunity that you will be afforded, as your son grows and participates in our hobby.
In reality our hobby has never been more fun.
PCRR/Dave
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