Christian, as I prepared to commit to a layout about 20 years ago, I reached out to PBL to express interest in one of their systems thinking it was DCC instead of an updated version of PFM. Oh, well.
Once I got things straight, I started off with a SoundTraxx sound decoder--I think a DCS small steam for one of my 2-8-0s. Since then, almost by accident, all but a couple locomotives have SoundTraxx decoders. The exceptions are two K-37 models that have another brand--LokSound, maybe? The K-37s sound terrific, and I have not had any issues. Now I do have a range of SoundTraxx prodcuts, from that original TCS decoder to Tsunami's, a Tsunami II or several, and pretty soon a Blunami. That is what happens in the industry over 20 years or so.
What I hear from my HO modeling friends is that they express frustration that different decoders from different manufactures don't seem to play well together. These are folks that are consisting and speed matching locos, not an issue I anticipate having. Those with more DCC savvy than me may disagree, but i think there is some sense to it. My plan is to have a throtttle/ engineer for each locomotive, so a three-engine train would have a crew of three to get it over the hill. That may tax my space, which only has room for 4-5, but then when you get to the top of the pass, you can cut off the helpers and have them run light down the hill, just like the real thing!
Before we get in too deep, there are sound decoders that have motor controls, and it is possible to have a sound decoder just for the sound, and a separate decoder just for the motor. I believe some of my locos are set up this way. I don't know that SoundTraxx decoders have any motor operation issues--maybe the earlier decoders did, but I think now the Tsunami-series and Blunami have all the sophisticated operation functions that other brands without sound had.
The decoder is only part of the system: you need to commit to a DCC system! There is no better way to rile up an online forum than to start talking about DCC systems. I chose Digitrax years ago, and have stuck with my simplex system. I heard there were issues with the duplex system, though a friend has one and reports no issues. I like the small throttles with the knob operation and know how to acquire and dispatch lococmotives, which is different on different systems.. My plan is to standardize the sound functions someday across all my locomotives. Most are pretty close now. I know there are some that are passionate about NCC and Lenz. I never liked the large "hammerhead" throttles and the dial button. That is my personal preference and leave you to interpret Rule Number 1 for yourself. Probably the best piece of advice is to get a system that is used by others in your area: the ability to have others to help troubleshoot is invaluable!
I have been operating on DCC-equipped layouts for over a decade, and the freedom DCC brings is terrific. No more block switching. I love the sounds and the spirit of reality it adds to operating sessions. When I converted my small switching layout from DC block control to DCC, I WAS ASTOUNED by the amount of wire I pulled from that 10-foot-long layout.
Have fun!
Keith Hayes
Leadville in Sn3
Locked
