Opinions sought on MRC Prodigy DCC System

Thanks Dave. The MSRP was $550 and MM had it for $370. The throttle is wired which I'm leaning more toward anyway.

I did think about the support group issue, but then again, this won't be my first trip out on a command-control limb.

I have the earlier Prodigy (and later bought a Prodigy 2) with an add-on 8 amp booster that MRC once offered.   I'm pretty happy with it.  It has more than enough power for my S Scale railroad.  Having the common DCC operations printed on the back of the throttle is great for a dummy like me...

When I upgraded the original Prodigy to the wireless throttle, there were some problems with addressing or getting the wireless to work. It apparently needed an upgrade to Prodigy 2.

I'll admit, it was a little frustrating at times, but MRC stood behind their product and resolved the problem, even though it took several tries.  MRC upgraded my original Prodigy to Prodigy 2 at no cost.  MRC also paid the shipping both ways, calling UPS for a door-to-door pick up.

When I later bought a Prodigy 2, the wireless upgrade worked with no issues. 

I'm given to understand that MRC sends the data out a little differently than NCE or Digitax and it may operate some functions a little differently.  I don't have access to either, so I really can't do a 1-on-1 comparison.

I would recommend getting a programming booster for using the programming track functions.

Rusty

Hi Matt.

For what it's worth at O Scale West 2012 when I was making my decision on which DCC system to chose as I switched from 3 rail to 2 rail  --  I asked every question I could think of on the relative merits of DCC systems --  at the seminars and during  the layout tours.

Had the opportunity to discuss the with some of the greats.  Names we all know.

I concluded that NCE DCC is the way to go.  So I went with it.  It has proven to be rock solid and user friendly.

Good luck with your choice

 Hello Matt, I just sent an email of something I came across. It maybe too small??

 I could only recommend that you get a system in your hands and test it to see what you like.

 I still have my old prodigy1 and it still works for testing. There are so many choices....Joe

Those that use the Prodigy System generally swear by it's intuitive user feel. I've read several positive comments by Brian Scace about his success with it over another competing system. He is definitely one whose vast experience has to be regarded as words of wisdom.

Bob

Thanks Joe. Got the E-mail. The starter pack is a 2-amp kit with a 3-Amp maximum. To their credit, it is complete and even at MSRP isn't bad. I've been checking out Tony's Train Exchange.

That was a favorite site of mine when I ran DCC. Not only do they stock the latest stuff in DCC, they help you install or use it too. I still use their tips when I install boards, lights, and speakers in engines.