What dont you like about this hobby

[torikoos]

I don't like the fact that DCC sets are still sooooooo expensive.

It is interesting how we each have our pet peeves. There I am complaining about the cost of metal wheelsets, yet I am okay with the cost of DCC. I suspect that most of us don't have a huge problem with paying $400 to $500 for a computer, yet a DCC system is basically a computer that helps us run our trains. Still, I would be okay with lower costs!

Compared to modern computers, DCC systems are pretty basic in their computing capabilities, it's clever electronics and programmable in many ways, and perhaps they do officially classify as 'computing equipment' to a certain degree, but to be that expensive? You can get a laptop for less! (and if you want to interface your computer with your DCC system, have a look what some of them charge for a 'simple' USB to Xpress net or Loconet interface, in some cases well over 100 bucks, that's just crazy in my opinion.) I think the price stayed high for too long now. When it was new I could understand it, but right now you can get DSP microprocessors for less than a decent potentiometer... What is so expensive I wonder? The intellectual property? A certain chip, any ideas?

Yes, sound systems for your engines do also seem a little pricey too... But I've ranted enough. As long as people keep paying the prices, they will remain where they are (saw some Lenz DCC equipment on E-bay recently, which sold for more than new price, what are people thinking! )