Ready to buy a DCC System

FWIW, I don't have a DCC system, but would like to add one someday. I have looked at a few different ones and I like the NCE system. It's expandable, upgradeable, has a remote similar to MTH's DCS, can be wireless or tethered, made in USA and I think you can do most DCC programming from the remote. I have also heard they have good support. I am by no means an expert, I'm still learning about DCC, but this is the system I would like to have. There are videos available on their website about their system.

fOR $300 you are going to be on the lower/middle, probably without radio.    But not sure about that.  

I bought a digitrax Superchief system with Radio, so I did not have to use cables.    but I have a big walk-around layout and there is a divider down the middle so you can't see both sides at once.    Therefore radio made sense to me, plus during operating session we run from 4-7 engines at one time.     There are 4 road crews and 3 yard crews.    so it depends on who is moving and who is waiting.    I am using 3 8 amp boosters, but I can get by with one 8 and one 5, it has been tried.    I bought it because I got a really good deal from an estate sales on nearly new for most and also at least 3 guys in my area have it so I could test it before hand and ask questions to get started.   Also, the small Utility throttle has very nice controls that I liked vs others included a reversing switch with a center off position, so you can't get accidental creepers if the knob bumps something.

Most new locos draw an amp or less, but sound adds a lot to that, maybe double.    So keep that in mind.   Also with 2 layouts (HO & O), you want something that will allow more than one throttle but you probably do not need more than 3.

I think you should leave the idea of radio open which probably puts Lenz at a disadvantage since you have to also buy CVP throttles to get radio with that.    

The other 3 big ones are Digitrax, NCE, and MRC.    Digitrax probably has the most users because it has been around the longest probably.   NCE is probably next or may even have more users.    Either of those are good systems with good customer support, although NCE sometimes seems more friendly.    MRC has more low end systems I think and has a rumored reputation for not fully implementing all of the NMRA standards for DCC.    NCE has a beginner systems called Procab I think, and Digitrax has one called Zephyr.    

I think the best advice is to get a system that is the same as one  your model RR buddies or aquaintances has.    this can be a big help getting started to have someone to ask questions.    Once you get going it all pretty much makes sense.

I have Lenz.  Well, I have four of them, plus extra throttles.      I bought Lenz because I'm into computer control and Lenz make all of the components for track detection.  It all just bolts together. 

Starting out with non-computer, I'd recommend NCE.  The system builds from your first purchase, right up to radio control.

I'd steer away from Digitrax, MTH et al, because they aren't easily compatible with others.

PRRJIM has probably the best advice; buy a system that most of your friends have.  You will need coaching with any of them and having friends around is invaluable.

Cheers

I went on NCE website, for O scale they said a 10 amp system. I can't afford a $600+ dcc system, I was on trainworlds website and they have a MRC Prodigy Pro-elite 10 amp system for $299.99. Is this a good dcc system...

I used the MRC prodigy pro elite--liked it--really it is the same as their other systems, just more power.  I do like the fact that volts and amps are readily displayed--for the money, a very capable system.  I replaced it with an ESU 50200--4 AMP system, but a great user interface--but, twice the price.  If you pick up the pc interface cable for the MRC (about $40) you can connect it to your computer and use JMRI to run the trains from a tablet--very slick.

I use a Digitrax system for my 2 rail equipment.  I started with Digitrax in the late 90s in HO scale when I lived in Portland, OR and it was the most popular system in the area.  When I moved to NJ, NCE seemed more popular but I could never get used to their hammerhead controllers.  Now in TX, Digitrax seems to be very popular.  Always handy if I need local help, as has been mentioned.  Their latest command station has a built-in computer interface and is fully compatible with JMRI.  JMRI's Decoder Pro is a must for anyone using DCC.  It makes many tasks less painful on any DCC system.  JMRI also has software to help with computer control, again for any system, if that is what you are interested in.

It really comes down to what you want out of your system, your comfort level with the available throttles, and do you plan on using your throttles on other layouts.  Decoders are system independent, but throttles, generally, are not. Most of the systems have components for signalling, turnout control, computer control, etc.

As has been said, for $300.00 you will be getting a basic system that can be expanded in the future.  Fortunately, as least for me, after the initial cash outlay, the incremental enhancements have been more budget friendly.

Good luck with whatever you choose.  DCC is a lot of fun and just like model railroading in general, it can be as simple or complex as you would like.

Thanks for all of your responses, I ordered the MRC Prodigy Pro-elite 10 amp from trainworld.

I thought this was a good buy for $299.99, should have it by wednesday the 10th. Looking forward to running my 2 rail and being able to use all of the functions. 

You're gonna love that MRC system, I have 2 and I just can't believe how easy they are to use. Get the wireless throttle upgrade, it has a different remote with a "PROGRAM CV" that makes it so fricken slick to change settings on sound decoders

Matt Makens posted:

You're gonna love that MRC system, I have 2 and I just can't believe how easy they are to use. Get the wireless throttle upgrade, it has a different remote with a "PROGRAM CV" that makes it so fricken slick to change settings on sound decoders

hi matt,

had a chance to set up the system today. you are right, it was so easy to use. we installed all of my son's HO engines and 1 of my O engines. 

Oh yeah, I recommend them to everyone who is looking to get their first DCC system. Ive uesd a lot of DCC systems and this is really the only one you can use without reading the instructions. Run some trains thats what its meant for.

Hey Pete, I was watching this thread with interest back in August because I was struggling with the same decisions. I really wanted the 10AMP NCE with wireless remote, but couldn't stomach $850 retail, and best I was finding on eBay was about $670. Finally found one used for $500 and pulled the trigger. Very happy with it. Now time to upgrade some of my straight DC engines.