I'm a Lionel loyalist who collected O-gauge trains for years and initially operated them conventionally with KWs. When I purchased several TMCC-quipped locos, I installed the TMCC system (PowerHouse, Command Base, and PowerMaster). When I purchased Lionel LEGACY locos, I "passed" on buying the full-blown LEGACY control system because those locos would respond to my existing TMCC gear (although without the fancy features of LEGACY). Then I bought a MTH Aerotrain set with DCS and PS-3. I bought the cheapest MTH control gear (Remote Commander) for it, which was adequate for my intended use.
I installed a two-position "Knife Switch" to route track power from one control system to the other, but not both simultaneously - although I understand that is possible. My 15x19 feet L-shaped layout isn't big enough to run two trains headed by two locos of different systems simultaneously anyway - except with CONSTANT ATTENTION to every movement.
Always a devotee of KISS, I opted to keep my control systems simple, read the instruction manuals carefully, enjoy fun with trains, and share good times with my two great-grandsons. I'm content to leave it to the Lionel and MTH techies to design and keep their systems running without my attempts to "improve" them.
I realize other operators are comfortable with having all the "bells and whistles" available to them for use at the highest levels of command and control. More power to them! But I don't need to go there and prefer to spend money for other hobby stuff.
And so it goes ...
Mike Mottler LCCA 12394