@Mellow Hudson Mike posted:rd,
Q2: In what way(s) is DCS "way better" than Lionel's offerings?
(I'm asking so that we, and in particular newbies, might learn from your experience.)
Mike
Well I can answer this one a couple of ways. This is my opinion (and everyone has one) but there are a couple key ways DCS is better:
1. I can upgrade/change sound files at home, on my own. If a locomotive has an incorrect whistle from the factory (Lionel never makes that mistake 
) I can put the correct whistle in a PS2/PS3 sound file and load it onto my locomotive in about 20 minutes at home. Is there a problem with a PS2/PS3 locomotive firmware? I can download the software fix and install it in the locomotive at home in 20 minutes. No need to send the locomotive off to Lionel for a new sound board to get the correct whistle (if they even acknowledge it's wrong) or reprogram a RCMA. I can do that at home. I have a huge issue that Lionel's control system doesn't allow this option. It's a decision on Lionel's part to do that. They could have easily allowed the consumer to do those things but they decided not to.
2. PS2/PS3 has some nice sound functionality built in TMCC/Legacy lacks. For example it has whistle commands pre-programmed in. The locomotive will automatically play a forward signal, reverse signal, and crossing signal with the push of a button. Can't do that on a Legacy remote. Also I can change the chuff rate on a PS2/PS3 steam locomotive with the push of a button. Again not possible with Legacy.
