DCS: Is it for me or not?

John, the "worth" is something only you can answer.  FWIW, you do get the ability to run conventional stuff (PS/1 & MARX engines) using the remote, so it does benefit all the locomotives.

If you want to run both DCS and conventional locomotives on the same track, from the remote, then yes running through the Variable channels is the way to go.

If you are going to have 6 locomotives total, with 4 eventually being DCS equipped then the system might be good for you. To me personally DCS and TMCC make running trains more enjoyable and I wouldn't go back to transformer throttle control. It's a decision you have to make. 

You have a simple track configuration that apparently is operating satisfactorily with three transformer handles and conventional block control for the yard. DCS might be useful if you plan to expand the layout but, in my opinion, for your current layout, it is not worth the expense and possible issues it may cause.  It may be wiser to use your limited funds for other types of layout improvements such as track, switches, scenery, structures, locomotives or rolling stock. It also depends on how much you would use the remote and additional operating features available with DCS. I have two conventional layouts powered by two Z-4000s - one is just a single loop and the other has three independent loops, each with a passing siding, for a total of six blocks. The layouts have operated without any electrical problems for twenty-two years and it would be difficult for me to rewire the larger layout at this time. So, I am satisfied to continue operating conventionally to avoid the expense and operating issues that may come with DCS. DCS would clearly be advantageous on a complex layout, but not necessarily on a simple one. And battery-powered locomotives may eventually make track power obsolete. I'm just stating how I feel about DCS or Legacy for myself. But, I do recognize that DCS may be more enjoyable for you...

MELGAR

Melgar's advice is good.  If I may expand a bit - my new layout will be exactly like yours - 2 complete loops and 3rd branch line running through a town and small (for O-scale) yard.   My layout will be roughly 20' on each side of a square so I will definitely be sticking with command control (DCS/Legacy) as I want to follow my trains around the layout and not be stuck having to control things from the transformer.   Depending on the size of your layout this may be a point of consideration in your decision making process.

-Greg

I have a fairly simple layout, 15x12’, one mainline and a passing siding, and a small engine terminal. All controlled by DCS and TMCC. No layout is too simple or too complex for digital control. I would buy DCS to access all the features of your MTH engines and for any future engines you buy.

I have been into N-scale for a long time.  After joining the local N-Trak club in the mid-2000's and starting out with straight DC, I reluctantly converted over to DCC as a few members were pressing for.

I have to admit, as much as I fought against it, I'm ultimately glad I did.  It's got its advantages.  Being able to run multiple engines independently on one track is definitely a big plus.  Regardless of that, though , I still enjoy the simplicity of straight DC operation.  No programming headaches or button-pushing hassles, just turn on the power pack, and run 'em with the straight DC throttle.  Still pretty simple and satisfying, IMHO.

Fast-forward another decade, and start getting into 3-rail O-gauge.  With all the experience I've gained in N-scale DCC, I still like cranking up the conventional O-gauge transformer and watching my O-gauge trains run.  Right now, without belonging to a club, and with only 2 lines to worry about, I can't really see where DCS (or equivalent Lionel) would benefit me at this point.  In the future however, this could very well change.  But for right now, conventional transformer control is just peachy as far as I'm concerned.

Unless you already have previous experience in DCC and/or DCS operation, you may wish to go for it anyway and give it a try.  Otherwise, you'll never know for sure. 

One limitation I found after reading "Barry's Book", is that DCS will not operate slow motion switch machines such as Tortoise.

Jim

Using the variable outputs is a piece of cake.   So yes this means you can now even run those Marx engines from either the dcs remote or a smart phone, while you walk around.   Lash ups of proto2 and proto3 engines is a lot of fun even on a small pike. 

One limitation I found after reading "Barry's Book", is that DCS will not operate slow motion switch machines such as Tortoise.

Jim, you might want to check this thread out.

https://ogrforum.ogaugerr.com/.../a-little-relay-help

M layout is 25+ years old, 36x16, wired for conventional.  I've had DCS for 16+ years.  26 DCS locos.  I also have some 6-7 conventional old Lionel, which I never use any more. All conventional that could be converted to DCS, have been converted. Once using command control, there's no enjoyment about conventional

Adding command control is something I said I would never do, but in early 2018, I added DCS, and I'm glad I did.  The ability to run trains from anywhere in the room, whether in command or conventional mode, is priceless. 

As Marty Fitzhenry once said to me, "It's worth the price of admission." 

John

Umpteen years ago when Lionel came out with the original TMCC, I jumped right on the bandwagon, they advertised it and I bought it a couple of months later. This was long, and I mean long before they even put the electronics in their locomotives. I set up my carpet layout and I was sold, ease of operation being able to control my train from anywhere around the track, I really liked it. Fast forward to the present and couple of years ago. I purchased the DCS system because I had a multitude of MTH Trains, if I thought I like Command Control back then, I love it now. Disclaimer: I don't think one system is better then another, my preference is DCS.

DCS is not hard to learn or operate at all, honestly after getting the book I thought I'd never learn use this system and thought I had made a big mistake, but once I got into using it, I realized it was really very easy. I also like being able to control just about every aspect of my consist, from speed to horns/whistle, smoke output, lights, it really is good. You'll be amazed at how much teaking you will start to do, just because you can! And it's really fun. Isn't that what this is all about? Running two trains on one track is to say the most, is pretty cool. I can control each train individually without having one run into the back end of another, even on a small carpet layout like mine. So I am sold on DCS. I do have a lot of conventional pieces of equipment and I do like running them, but I really just like the all the extras that come with running in a command environment. I think you will too once you start using it. Just my two cents.