Words from a rookie.
I bought TMCC less than a year ago because it is available for $100-150 less than a new Legacy system. I bought a system that had been used one time, from a LHS, for less than $200. Then for less than $60 I bought a second handheld. The TMCC system is well shaken out, and a used one (FROM A RELIABLE SELLER) is a good buy. Everything is working fine, and after a year I still haven't used all of its capabilities. I don't operate switches, accessories or have a PowerMaster power supply that can be controlled by the handheld.
(BUT I understand that the ZW-L I DO use CAN be controlled by the handheld- I just haven't taken the time to figure it out. I would like to be able to correct circuit breaker derailment trips w/o walking around to the transformer.)
Most important to me, in order:
- operation using a handheld
- Odyssey speed control (!!) and remember- the early TMCC engines using AC/ open frame "Pullmor" motors (so- up to 2000 and later and including Century Club locos) cannot have speed control. These will slow and speed up for grades and voltage. Only DC motored locos can have speed control as I understand it. Odyssey SC is a major feature in my mind. (And the MTH system has only DC motors, so speed control is probably standard.)
- Traintalk and Trainsounds features.
You can still find new TMCC systems and pre-owned ones for very little- here's one:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/LIONE...d:g
3AAAOSwWBVe-K0M
TMCC locomotives are widely available, both new (NOS) and pre-owned. They have for me plenty of features, especially for the $300- $500 price range- Lion Chief Plus territory. BUT, remember that even the new "in the box" TMCC locomotives are now up to 20 or more years old.
So- I think when buying used, the previous owner has shaken out the bugs, generally. I buy New Legacy locomotives if they are what I want and knowing that I can't use 100% of the Legacy features using TMCC. But I would say used is even better for Legacy stuff- let the first owner deal with any issues.
Important: the TMCC system including Odyssey and Trainsounds is also used for Atlas O, Third Rail, and the (now discontinued) K Line and K-Line by Lionel equipment. Obviously Legacy will also run these.
