[johnfin]

Do I need a special controler to make the proto sounds work or will the bell/whistle buttons work?

 

[Boston&Maine]

Yes, you can control Protosounds with a regular controller that has a horn and bell button... If you look in your instruction manual for the locomotive, it will tell you the different codes to enter... If you do not have the manual, then post your locomotive here and I may be able to find one online for you...

 

[johnfin]

Dcs

Eventhough I can control it with my lionel cw-80, is it best to use a DCS controler. If so, is there a decent, cheap one available?

 

[Boston&Maine]

Is is best to use a DCS controller? Yes, because it has more features available... Is it required to use a DCS controller? No, you are not going to hurt the locomotive or anything...

I have never used one, so I can not exactly say what is required to get it to work... I am guessing that to use a DCS controller though, you will need the whole DCS system, which costs like $300... Your best bet is to read here: http://www.protosound2.com/index.htm