@Ray of sunshine posted:To B23Dash7:
Like you, about 12 years ago, I changed from HO conventional (DC) to O gauge 3 rail. After looking through several articles on the subject of MTH - DCS verses Lionel - TMCC & Legacy, I bought into the MTH system, and added a Lionel TMCC base. This, I thought was the best of both worlds.
I did buy a couple of MTH engines and some TMCC engines. Everything seamed to be OK and I was able to run MTH, Lionel, Atlas (with Lionel ERR) and even conventional engines.
But after a while, I was not really happy with the MTH system. So I sold off my DCS and upgraded to the Lionel Legacy - it also runs TMCC and engines I converted to ERR Lionel Cruise and sound. As well an conventional engines - new and old.
For me, I personally think that the Lionel Legacy is a better system and easier to operate. I'm not saying that MTH is a bad system, for me, I felt that Lionel's system better suited my layout.
I would suggest that you look up a local club in your area, and see what they have set up for their layout. Even join the club, you'll learn a lot more from other modelers that can help answer you questions and even assist you in setting up your layout. There is nothing like a hands on experience to help determine what might be best for you.
I belong to a local club and we run both DCS and Legacy/TMCC, as well as conventional. But I run and operate only Legacy. I've learned a lot from my fellow club members.
RAY
B23Dash7, I was in the same boat as you are and Ray was. I switched from HO to O gauge 3 rail 10 years ago. Like Ray, I bought the DCS system and a TMCC base. That is where I still am. In fact, I am in the process of expanding the DCS system to control track power and switches. I must confess, I have had little exposure to Lionel Legacy, so it seemed to me I might as well continue with what I have, especially since almost all my engines are DCS. Folks love Legacy, so I probably don't know what I am missing. However, now retired and at age 65, I will probably continue with DCS unless I get to really use Legacy at a club or another personal layout and see the benefit of switching.
While in HO, I never used any type of command control, running strictly conventional. Considering I spent 43 years in the electronics field, there is certainly a learning curve going with whichever system you choose. You have plenty of advice to sift through already. Remember, when you ask a question on this forum, members jump into action. You can feel like you were hit with a fire hose full blast!! Take your time and ask away.