I'm afraid Mike does make some good points stated above. For me, my medium-sized layout has been built out for years now and I've been happy with a 2 train operation and even happier with a transformer for each loop (a Lionel CW80 and a Lionel 180w brick). For control I use one Lionel Base 1L and 2 Cab 1L remotes, one for each loop. What could be simpler?
This system has worked well for several years and I'm not about to change anything or move up to the next level of control, whatever that may be. As far as a smartphone vs. a hand-held remote, I prefer my Cab 1Ls. If they ever fail, then I will revert back to conventional control and probably begin dismantling the layout and sell the trains. The layout is nearing the end of its life anyway.
