[gb043075]

I've been stalking the forums for a while now and I still find myself scratching my head over where to start...I haven't had a train since I was a kid - getting ready to have my first child and I'm interested in incorporating a wall mounted track in our playroom with an exit through the wall into the living area and back into playroom.

That said, it's a pretty basic layout. Circle the room with one switch right, then back in line.

I've read a lot about the new DCC technology and that seems to be the way to go (even for my super basic layout - i'm confident it will expand in due time).

My question is this: Is there a really great DCC starter kit out there that would make sense to buy and build on that or should I just do it piece by piece and lay my track, buy a good controller system, then the loco and cars?

Thanks for any help you guys can provide!

 

[tankist]

IMHO, sets don't come with what i consider full DCC system. bachmann system is lacking essential features. but DCC is not a end all be all, get yourslf a usual pack and enjoy railroading. later if and when you feel the need (and understand what you want), get a full featured system.

 

[jbsmith966]

Bachmann has some basic DCC train sets that include a DCC controller. Nothing too complex, but they are good starter sets to get your feet wet.
B'mann also offers its DCC controller with a locomotive included too at slightly less cost than a full train set.
Look around in MRR online shops, you will find them.

Once you are comfortable with the Bachmann DCC system, then it is a good time to decide if you want to move on to the more complex DCC controllers or not.

 

[shaygetz]

If it's just a loop you're after, a good, high amp, high wattage power pack is all you really need.

 

[tankist]

...
Once you are comfortable with the Bachmann DCC system, then it is a good time to decide if you want to move on to the more complex DCC controllers or not.

but but at that point you already shelled cash for bachmans offering. why make such poor investment if you know upfront the system is insufficient and upgrade is inevitable? DC power-pack to keep things simple, save up, build up and then jump to proper DCC system. and no less important with proper decoders - bachmann's factory decoders were one piece of frustration. if i ever to buy a spectrum engine with DCC onboard i would factor in the cost of DH123PS (or whatever 8 pin conector equiped chip) into a deal

 

[Reckers]

If it's just a loop you're after, a good, high amp, high wattage power pack is all you really need.

If I may sort of combine the last two posts: Shay is right: until you have a more elaborate setup, the expensive control system is superfluous. And Tankist is right---forget the intermediate step when you're ready to upgrade, then go for the big Kahuna. Think of it this way: why bother to have your old Chevy re-upholstered and recarpeted if you plan to trade it in for a Lincoln in 6 months? Instead, spend the intervening time reading up on the systems and perhaps getting some layout software to work up your next layout, one that will actually need the control system. IMHO.