To the OP, are you sorry you asked yet? LOL
I will add my $.02. I have been asked this question before and the first thing I ask back is what do you intend to run? If newer stuff is the answer (command and DC motors) the easiest thing to do is buy a modern transformer and be done with it. Lionel or MTH, doesn’t matter but the newer transformers have the required circuit protection for the newer engines built in which makes things safer and easier. And bigger is better for the inevitable expansion.
If you intend to run a mix, I prefer an older transformer. Some may disagree but IMHO the ZW is the standard. But to safely run newer stuff with the older transformer, circuit protection is a must (fuses or circuit breakers and TVS’s).
All old stuff (prior to electronics) and the ZW is still the answer. IMHO, older 3 poll motors perform better with the older transformers. I believe this has to do with the newer transformers having “modified” sine wave outputs.
Of course, there are grey areas as well. My oldest TMCC loco (which I consider to be new stuff) has 3 poll motors so it is both modern and old school. It runs best on the old ZW but absolutely needs the circuit protection.
ZW or 2 KWs? Again it depends. If you are running old school conventional and want the very best possible speed control, 2 KW’s. As others have pointed out, whether it is a KW or ZW, there is only 1 transformer in there, just multiple power taps. And the power delivered to one output will affect the power delivered to another output on the same transformer. However, 2 transformers are less efficient than 1 so while it may not be much, you will waste more electric powering 2 transformers vs just 1.
For reference, I have a ‘60s ZW, a ‘50s RW, a Post War Celebration ZW (1999 or 2000 vintage with 135W power bricks) and an MTH Z-500 to power my TIU. I also use an 11A Astron DC power supply for 14 volt accessory power where AC is not required (the bulbs last longer).
Was that $.02 or a nickels worth of free advice? :-)
Tony
