To start, I'm a new guy on this forum. I model in HO using a two cab, blocked DC operating system. However, I'm starting to do an expansion of my old tried and true 4X8 and am trying to decide on which DCC system to start with. I have been reading other forums as well as this one, and hardly ever see any discussion about the CVP "Easy DCC" system. I've been to their website and it looks pretty cool except that its only a direct purchase and the price is a little higher for their basic unit than that of NCE, Digitrax, MRC, etc. Sooooo,,,,, any opinions about the CVP system?
Welcome to Trainboard. I can't answer your question (NCE man ), but there have been several threads on 'starter' DCC systems over the last year, so I'd try bashing the TB search function a bit. There is an article in a recent (latest IIRC) Model Railroader about DCC systems, but I don't have my copy with me at present, so I can't check if it covers CVP - I'll look this evening if noone else posts up first.
Just a guess, but I don't think you hear much about the "Easy DCC" system because not alot of people are using it. Couldn't tell ya why though. :tb-confused: -Mike
Easy DCC is a fine, high quality system. It's dual controls are nice if you're running trains from the fixed location command station. They also have walk-around throttles available, including an excellent radio throttlel. My only problem with Easy DCC is that I need a radio throttle to be full function so I can program and setup and breakup consists on the fly from any location. This better suits the way I want to operate. Easy DCC walk-around throttles don't include these capabilities. Jerry
I dont' really know anything about the system "easy dcc." I can however tell you that I started out with the Digitrax Zephr. The system is very user friendly and sells for about $160. The really nice thing about the system is that it is easy to build upon the system with the Digitrax loconet feature. So if you decide that you want to use hand helds to control your trains it is as easy as purchasing a throttle, receiver, and some rj12 phone wire, which can be found at your local radio shack.
I don't know any thing about "easy dcc." I use Digitrax. Easy to expand and there are a variety of throttles from Digitrax that can be use with their system. I personally prefer their UT-4 for daily operation. One throttle one train. It also great for letting the grandchildren run the train, with only one knob they know which train will change speeds when they turn it.:thumbs_up: Also the service from Digitrax is great. :thumbs_up::thumbs_up:
I don't have a CVP EasyDCC. It isn't what I'd call a mainstream product. However, everyone I've ever talked to who had one loved it. That's only four or five people, but I think I'd feel safe buying one based on their recommendations.
NCE POWER CAB You might want to look at NCE's Power Cab system. For the size of layout you have described and the number of operators I would think that this system would give you the most bang for the buck. System is user friendly- easy to understand and will program sound decoders without using a program booster. Cost - about $150.00 comes with everything you need in one box. (NO DECODERS FOR LOCOS). The system is expandable, you can get a smart booster to make the system a 3 amp system and you can get a USB interface also.
Call for support Call CVP for product support? Ask for some information- see what kind of replys you get?
Easy DCC has evolved from a 'Build it yourself' system that was in MR in 1997. Was a series of articles that went over about 6 months. That system could handle 2 digit addresses, and a number of handheld throttles - radio wasn't in use then. It's moved on since then - can now handle 4 digit addresses and has radio throttles as well. As others have said retail and support is direct from the manufacturer only. I did look at this system when buying my system in 1999 but elected to go with an NCE Powerhouse Pro system - mainly due to ease of use - and i've never looked back. I have more recently purchased a Power Cab mainly for workbench testing and to use on my N Scale coffee table layout - best thing about that is the handheld can be used as another cab on my main layout. Tim