12-12-2012, 09:15 PM
I have one of those. Had it for over 20 years now, and still using it today to power my layout. Unfortunately for MRC, they released it on the edge of DCC, and "on board" DCC sound systems and doppler effects. The steam sound and whistle is nice, but the diesel sound will give you a headache More of a hum and the horn flattens out when pushed to the max. Even hooking the controller to a Dolby sound system didnt help, though it did enhance the steam sounds and made them sound better. Real powerful, as I've had eight locos mu'ed, and only had to use half throttle.
The controller does have a "momentum" switch which is pretty cool effect, as you drop the throttle to "idle", your train keeps moving as if there is "tons" of freight behind the loco. When taking off from a stop and push the throttle up to "run 8", your train slowly starts to move until it reaches your desired speed. The sounds correspond to the movement. There is also a "brake switch, which brings the train to a stop, but unless you drop the throttle, before releasing the brake button, your train takes off at the speed set on the throttle.
I have used this controller for both N scale and HO scale layouts. There is a button in the back which switches it from HO and smaller scales(TT, N, and Z) to your larger scales(O, S, G), and you can hook up accessories to it. I did have Atlas remote N scale switches hooked up to it, and activating the switch, didn't make the power drop to the tracks.
Real nice controller, powerful, and I'm really pleased with the way it has performed for all these years. And except for the diesel sound and horns, is really a nice buy for those who are still using DC.
The controller does have a "momentum" switch which is pretty cool effect, as you drop the throttle to "idle", your train keeps moving as if there is "tons" of freight behind the loco. When taking off from a stop and push the throttle up to "run 8", your train slowly starts to move until it reaches your desired speed. The sounds correspond to the movement. There is also a "brake switch, which brings the train to a stop, but unless you drop the throttle, before releasing the brake button, your train takes off at the speed set on the throttle.
I have used this controller for both N scale and HO scale layouts. There is a button in the back which switches it from HO and smaller scales(TT, N, and Z) to your larger scales(O, S, G), and you can hook up accessories to it. I did have Atlas remote N scale switches hooked up to it, and activating the switch, didn't make the power drop to the tracks.
Real nice controller, powerful, and I'm really pleased with the way it has performed for all these years. And except for the diesel sound and horns, is really a nice buy for those who are still using DC.
Torrington, Ct.
NARA Member #87
I went to my Happy Place, but it was closed for renovations.
NARA Member #87
I went to my Happy Place, but it was closed for renovations.