Maybe I'm bit old fashioned and frugal but, for over 20 years I used 4 Lionel LW transformers phased and connected to a grounded power strip. #1) set at a constant voltage to power switch machines; #2) set at two different constant voltages for lights, signals, etc.; #3&4) each powering 2 separate power districts with a TVS on each. I noticed these still can be found at less than $50 each in good condition often with new power cords. They always provided enough power to run 2 lighted passenger trains (6 to 8 cars each) and a third freight train simultaneously over my layout with 4.17% grades. In my opinion the Lionel LW is one of the most reliable, not abused, and often overlooked transformers out there. I only switched to two PH180 bricks about 5 years ago as I wanted the faster circuit breaker protection these offered, and I longer ran anything conventional.
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