N Scale Decoder Question

I'm new to DCC, and I'm just starting to convert some of my engines. I need some suggestions for decoders for a Life-Like C424 and an older model Atlas RS-3.

Price is an issue, but it's certainly not the biggest issue. I don't want to be disappointed with the performance of my engines. These are the things I'm looking for:

-Quiet operation
-Back EMF
-I want to have a mars light on both engines, so however many functions I'll need to make that happen.
-My track isn't always the cleanest, and I don't want to have to scrub it every day to get my engines to work.

I've been looking at the Lenz Silver Mini and the Lenz Gold Mini, but if there are other suggestions, I'm all ears. Thanks for your help!

 

Kevdog,
I'm sure you'll get the answer faster here, but in the latest issue of N-Scale mag there's a article about the DCC friendlyness of N scale locomotives past and present. It's by a guy who regularly has articles in there and posts on Trainboard too. (Dan?, my memory sucks!) anyway it's worth the coverprice, Oh and so is the article about Pete Nolan's layout. (I remembered Pete's name, geez!). AFA decoders I think Train Control Systems or Lenz has good features and prices too IIRC.

2slim

 

Try this Web Site for further information

http://litchfieldstation.com/lobby/dn_atlas.htm

 

Digitrax and Lenz have BEMF decoders that are readily available. You will need at least 3 functions so the Digitrax DZ143 (least expensive 4 function) or the Lenz equivalent would be the one to use.

Question - for my own interest, why BEMF equipped? (I know what BEMF is and it works)

 

I've got a couple small grades on my layout, and I don't like when the train goes faster downhill, when I just let the trains run on their own. I could be mistaken, but my understanding is that back EMF will maintain a more constant speed. Would I be correct in figuring this?

 

That's the concept behind it. The motor creates an AC voltage as it turns and the decoder monitors this for changes in voltage and frequency. If it rises (the motor turning faster) the decoder reduces the voltage applied to the motor thus reducing speed. The opposite applies when climbing a grade.