Wow a lot of hate for the power masters, it's funny no one mentions the Legacy power masters in those posts.
About 1.5 yrs. after I returned to trains(I liked and had toy trains as a kid(the 90s) then about 17 years later I started getting into it again) I purchased the original TMCC system- that was summer of 2018 I believe.
Didn't have a command loco yet, so I used a power master. It was a good starting point as I got into the habit of ensuring what voltage level tracks were set at, learning about adequate circuit protection, and viewing command control not just as "Lionel TMCC" but as multiple systems that could be integrated with their various components. The PMs still served me well as controls for accessories.
Before I continue, here's what you need if you want to use the Legacy system cab2/base2 to run both conventional and tmcc/legacy engines on a loop of track:
Track, transformer, wire, etc...all those basics
Legacy Powermaster or TPC300 or 400 to switch between conventional and command (original PM with bridge isn't something I've done and I don't know if it will give you full access to all features )
The above is really it, just set up your layout like you normally would and then add in the Legacy system and Legacy PMs and/or or TPCs.
Back to what I was saying about power masters and info on how they are beneficial to command and conventional running
The PM is at the least a nice "get your feet wet" to using your cab1/1L/2 remote.
Whether running conventional, command, or both- you'll enjoy the Legacy system. After TMCC I got DCS and finally Legacy. For command control(tmcc or legacy equipped) locos, there are different settings for different types- find one that works and you'll notice the performance will improve. Sometimes I get confused when running multiple locos if they're on different setting- example a 2 TMCC with odyssey in 32 speed step TMCC mode, a K-line w/ TMCC & cruise in 100 speed step R1000 mode and a 2 Legacy locos in Legacy mode. You have control over 5 locos which is pretty cool, but I've previously gotten confused about which loco I was controlling and accidentally sped it up to near full throttle. HIWEVER- easy fix, you can just put all in TMCC mode so they're all at same speed steps, or maybe put 3 in TMCC mode because your K-line runs netter in that mode anyway and keep the Legacy locos in Legacy mode.
In terms of conventional and the benefits of a Powermaster or Legacy Powermaster, the remote controller just becomes an extension of the transformer handle with added benefits. As an operator/collector of prewar Us/European trains as well- I can tell you that even with the original power master my prewar locos ran better. While the original powermaster controlled the track voltage, the Legacy PMs and TPCs can do so much more. When it comes to Legacy and conventional, the Legacy PMs or TPCs, you can impose speed steps on to each block or track. TPCs let you run conventional engines on the assigned track at 80, 200 or 400 speed steps. what does that mean? Now, let's say we're at 80 speed steps- imagine each turn of the wheel on your handheld remote is like moving your ZW lever in increments of .2 volts. You have the much of a degree of fine control over your engine and that's only at 80 speed steps. I didn't pick .2 out of the air, if you put your lever all the way up you hit 18v, same with turning the remote's wheel. Step 80 would be full throttle, 18v/80steps= .2v per speed step.I love my ZW, but you can't get that type of control with it or any transformer for that matter.
Please keep us posted on your progress and don't hesitate to ask for help!
