Toying with the idea of getting back into HO...advice needed.

Check out the ESU LokSound 5 line of decoders.  They appear to be good first install decoders and they can be configured ad nauseum.  I just got my ESU Cab Controller today along with an Intermountain ET44AH CSX locomotive.  Wish the sound could be louder and more expansive but it is HO.  I couldn't be more happy with the ESU Cab Controller "remote" esp. with that huge motorized speed throttle.  My only gripe is the touch screen is a little small for big fingers but the fact you can customize the icons for each function really helps one to identify what it actually does.  Also, switching between locomotives/consists only takes a swipe left or right.

Anthony

Thanks Anthony...I have only used Loksound 5 on my O-scale 2 rail stuff...I also have the Loksound programmer so I can DL different sounds from their library of loco sounds, but haven't used it yet.   I do love their boards and hopefully the HO boards are cheaper than the O scale! LOL

When I went to DCC in 2 rail, I debated between the ESU unit or the NCE and ultimately chose NCE in part because Jim Scorse (founder of NCE) is a member on this forum and he was very helpful when I was asking dumb questions about DCC on the 2 rail side.  It is a good problem to have when we have many good choices like NCE and ESU control systems.

That is also one of the things I like about Scale Trains..they use Loksound 5 DCC decoders.  Sounds like a win-win.

Didn't mean to reply so fast.

Anyone, have favorite brands of engines for good sound and quality running ability with DCC? 

Obviously a personal decision, but if I wanted 2-3 DCC/Sound equipped HO engines, I'd go with new from any of the well known manufacturers, some of which you've mentioned.  The old Athearn Blue Box locos don't, I believe have drive trains that are as sophisticated and reliable as newer locos (motors, gearing, etc.).  Plus you'd have to put in many hours to adapt them to DCC, including possibly milling the frames, or put many dollars into someone doing this for you.  So one way or the other, you're committing some hundreds of dollars or dozens of hours of time.  But in one case, you're getting state of the art locos with a warranty from a current dealer/manufacturer, if that's important to you.