HO vs O Scale - Model Railroader Magazine

While HO does not have the visual impact that O scale has, very realistic layouts can be created in it as well as in N scale. Most of the decoder manufacturers produce decoders suitable for HO, N and Z scale. Most of the decoders I've seen are usually rated for G scale as well. If you want sound then SoundTraxx and now MRC are making sound equiped decoders for HO and N. So there is no reason to switch to O scale if sound is the driving force.

As to what system is best. That depends on what you want to do with it and how much you are willing to spend. Suitable starter systems are supplied by Atlas, MRC, Roco and others for under $200.00. If you are looking at expand ability, then you should look at Digitrax, Wangro, Northcoast Engineering or Lenz. Other suppliers out there probably have good systems as well but the ones mentioned are the ones I am familiar with.

Most of the locomotives that come with decoders installed are diesels, but some of the newer high end steam locos are being equiped with decoders now. Atlas, MRC and I think Kato have models with decoders installled. But don't let that dissuade you from any of the other fine models out there. There are the Plug N Play decoders being made to drop right in for many models now. And if you are using the 9 pin decoders there is a harness to fit the older Athearn locomotives as well. And many shops will custom install decoders if you want.

Tony's Train Exchange has recently come out with an automatic uncoupling system the call Digital Direct Coupling (DDC). It uses two of the available DCC functions to operate.

Both MR and RMC have run their own series of articles detailing DCC's use and operation. Good primers on DCC are "DCC Made Easy" by Kalmbach, "The Big Book of DCC" by Digitrax and "Digital Command Control For Beginners" by Ruter Friberg.

So get out and enjoy that HO. Or switch to O scale if that's where your interests really lay. It's all up to you. Best of luck.

JoeUmp