"You can get the DCS Remote Commander as a separate item to run the train with a remote. Its a "dumbed-down" DCS system for about $60"
It's not DCS in some key respects and, as you note, it's not included. That's why I specifically mentioned command control. With DCS, command control is only available with the TIU/handheld Remote or TIU/WIU/you provide the tablet or phone.
The Remote Commander does not provide command control operation as the LionChief remote and universal remote do. The Remote Commander provides handheld remote operation of one MTH locomotive at a time. Essentially conventional control in that respect, and requires additional expense beyond the set.
On the other hand, LionChief starter sets (at least the ones with track) have always come with everything you need to operate in command mode using the enclosed remote. I think that's an accurate portrayal of the choices.
It has always puzzled me why MTH doesn't provide everything in their sets needed to operate it out of the box, and assumes everyone has a (spare?) smart device they want to use for this purpose.
