This is a dumb question but I need help. In order to operate a Legacy Loco with Bluetooth, do I need a 990 command set hooked up to the layout?
Thanks
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No, the loco will run conventionally with Bluetooth capabilities.
As Jon said, did this at the LHS when the first Bluetooth equipped Legacy engine came in. Put it on the test track and used both the App and the Universal remote. without a Legacy base. It was kinda cool. Not Legacy cool, but still cool. 
Another question, are there operating advantages to using bluetooth over the cab-2?
wb47 posted:Another question, are there operating advantages to using bluetooth over the cab-2?
The Legacy system gives you more access to features over Bluetooth.
The biggest advantage is being able to run a scale locomotive in command without a Legacy system. The free app from Lionel is all you need. Also the universal remote works with them as well. It's about $250 less than a Legacy system.
SantaFeFan posted:...the loco will run conventionally with Bluetooth capabilities.
Not sure I understand. Isn't the track power set at a fixed voltage?
Guys thanks for your help. I can’t wait to try it out. I just ordered a Pere Marquette 1225 (from 2017 volume 2)
CAPPilot posted:SantaFeFan posted:...the loco will run conventionally with Bluetooth capabilities.
Not sure I understand. Isn't the track power set at a fixed voltage?
Yes. I think what Jon means is you do not need a command system for it to operate.
Is this another Apple only Lionel product?
BobbyD posted:Is this another Apple only Lionel product?
It's Apple and Android Bluetooth App.
Thanks Marty. Link to the download? Searched Bluetooth on their website and it just comes up with LionChief sets
MartyE posted:CAPPilot posted:SantaFeFan posted:...the loco will run conventionally with Bluetooth capabilities.
Not sure I understand. Isn't the track power set at a fixed voltage?
Yes. I think what Jon means is you do not need a command system for it to operate.
You will need enough track voltage to be able to run the drive motors, and the Bluetooth will operate within those limits. Conventional features will be there, ie: horn/bell under transformer control, and Bluetooth will also operate the horn/bell. Dialogs will trigger from transformer control, and from the App. As Marty stated, no need for Legacy base and cab2, of course you get a ton more functionality with Legacy.
SDIV Tim posted:Guys thanks for your help. I can’t wait to try it out. I just ordered a Pere Marquette 1225 (from 2017 volume 2)
Tim, I am not familiar with that loco. Does it have bluetooth?
Are there any plans for Lionel to provide a Bluetooth upgrade module for existing Legacy or Lionchief engines?
Chris
Chris Underwood posted:Are there any plans for Lionel to provide a Bluetooth upgrade module for existing Legacy or Lionchief engines?
No. I doubt they ever will. People would buy the Bluetooth modules and buy used Legacy engines instead of new ones.
They probably once had that perspective on TMCC upgrades. I wonder if any 3rd parties would undertake this upgrade?
Chris
beachhead2 posted:Chris Underwood posted:Are there any plans for Lionel to provide a Bluetooth upgrade module for existing Legacy or Lionchief engines?
No. I doubt they ever will. People would buy the Bluetooth modules and buy used Legacy engines instead of new ones.
I believe you are 100% correct. Sales killer like the Legacy updates we were told about? 
If you were not sure, wouldn't Lionel's addition of bluetooth to Legacy locos be a clear indication of the future of model train control?
