I understand some of the older transformers don't support some of the newer electronics. Looking for something to use with a test track for engines and accessories. Thanks for any input.
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If you test modern trains, use a modern transformer. I run a Z4K on my bench that was a repaired unit.
I think Marty's suggestion is a good choice but if you do not have a lot of space like me, I prefer the MRC AH601 Dual Power Throttle, Pure power Ac 270 watt transformer. It's footprint is about 1/3 that of the Z4000 and it has individual vole and amp meters for each side.
Of course, if you will be repairing a lot of Proto one engines, I would definitely stick with the Z4000.
There are other newer transformers the would work but I find having the volt and amp meters extremely useful.
I would not recommend using any of the newer Lionel products, including the new ZW-L because many older sound systems will not work with them. I am learning that the hard way with some older 3rd rail brass engines.
Good luck with your choice.
Happy railroading,
Don
My work area has a new starter set Lionel and a MTH Z750 and I use brand to brand when testing. Don't need a lot of power for no load on 6 feet of track.
I have a Z-1000 on my test bench, and if I need a pure sine wave, I dig out the old 1033. 99% of the time, I get by with the Z-1000, old PS/1 stuff has a problem with it, then I use the 1033 and a home-made bell/whistle box so I have both functions.
For any power on the bench, I also have a 2A circuit breaker box in the secondary feed from the transformer that provides protection for the DUT, if it draws more than 2 amps, I figure it's probably broken anyway! 
A Z4K seems like a bit of overkill for a test track. Since my test track is used infrequently I use a LW. The only reason for that is there was no place to mount the brick and controller for the Z-750 I have sitting unused. A fast acting breaker protects things nicely. The only drawback is the starting voltage on the LW.
I agree with Marty. A Z4K shows both volts and amps when you power up a locomotive.
If you draw too much voltage or current, it shows.
I have used it exclusively on my test bench. Use wires with alligator clips so I can test it in DCS,
specific tests on motors, etc. Also have a DC power pack to test Scale engines.
I use a Lionel 180 watt brick and the Cab1 just because that's what I had on hand.
This is what I am experiencing. I'm using a CW 80 on the test track. Some accessories don't function correctly when I use an ITAD 153IR. For example, the Banjo Signal turns on but not off. The Gateman Shanty open but does not shut. When I bring these accesories to my regular track they function fine. On my regular track, the accesories are hooked up to a KW.
The "safest" choice is probably a pure sine wave transformer, but most of them don't have the bell button. Since that's a requirement for some test bench work, that's why I use the Z-1000.
Z-1000 works well for me on my test bench.
