This is a super upgrade! Every time I use my DT402 I feel like I am holding something from the 1980's. Thank god somebody decided to improve the tech lol even though it kinda looks like a mid 90's cell phone hahaha
Looking at replacing my 6 month old broken NCE Power CAB (don't ask). I wish I had seen this system first because I think it is more what I want. Oh well we live and learn. Thank you for the demo really helped to see the functions of the Digitrax.
Excellent video, thanks! I have one coming in a few days. I wouldn’t say to replace my ESU ECOS, just yet, but you never know. I have watched a few videos and so far, yours is the only one that has touched on CV programming, very helpful. I started with Digitrax many years ago and kind of miss the system capabilities.
Thanks for sharing this video and information. I’m considering getting one our clubhouse layouts. Tennessee Valley Model Railroads ( HO, N layouts) Bell Buckle TN Update 23 March 2023 received a DT602D from Yankee Dabbler ( fast delivery) Tested it on Club HO layout first impressions very nice, after watching your video much easier to use than my old DT402D.
Really great unboxing and review. Just found your channel as a link from Digitrax throttle announcement. First I heard about the new throttle and the first review, thanks. Checked out your list of videos and it’s exactly what I’m into; trains, Digitrax and nascar, even a great video of Dale Earnhardt winning. I’m subscribed and looking forward to more videos when I finish all of these. Thanks for sharing and keep up the good work.
A very good review with one minor caveat. Ops mode programming will only edit the locomotive that is selected. The older DB100a and DB 150 used as command stations do not off this as an option so that is the only way to program all of the locomotives.
Thanks, Lawrence. You are correct! It is an old habit that is tough to break and I tend to forget that newer command stations have rectified that issue.
I may have to get one of these and put my old 402D in reserve if I ever get around to building myself an HO layout. I haven't seen my 402D in so long I probably won't even know what it looked like if I had to look for it.😅
Very nicely done video. I'm thinking of changing over to Digitrax because what looks to be a better display and built in USB. Looks like you have the Zephyr all in one starter set and the new throttle, are you pretty happy with that set up. I have an N scale layout that is expanding in size but only plan on having 2-3 consist tops running at any given time, do you think the DCS52 is sufficient? My procab seems to get pretty hot when I have one or more consists even just idling with sound on. Thanks Mario
Thank you for the product review!. I just recently purchased one and I'm trying to get the hang of it. Your video really simplified things . Struggling with trying to not have a few locomotives start up when track power is turned on . I want them to start with F8. Trying to adjust esu decoder .
Thanks, Peter. ESU decoders (at least the new ones) should not initiate the startup sequence when track power is applied. Soundtrax (Tsunami) decoders are default programmed to initiate when track power is applied. Email me at ck7813 @ yahoo.com (don’t add the spaces) and I can help tell you what CVs you need to change
It looks like it will fit in your throttle cradle width-wise so if it were me, I would find out how much deeper the cradle needs to be & cut four pieces of aluminum tubing that has an inner diameter just large enough to fit screws through and long enough to offset your cradle. I have done that to a similar project & it looked very professional once completed. Just a thought & should hold your other throttles just fine as well.
You need to get the firmware update (15-JUL-2020) to eliminate the constant beeping, it is just a month old and already it has been a modification. The later releases have turned this function off as a default.
This is why I usually wait 6months or more before I consider buying a new design. I wait to see the market usage that brings out issues. Maybe for Christmas.
I didn't think Digitraxx could make their throttles any more complicated. And Digitraxx is all I have ever used. Must have been said during design, "I know, we'll cut down the amount of buttons so that the buttons we have on it do even more separate functions". Bad idea. I like the bigger throttle knobs and the Soft Power ON /Off and the lanyard ability. And maybe the screen is better than the 500D. But losing buttons 10 -12 and the hoops you have to jump through are just unforgivable. About the only way I will buy one of these is if my other two throttles break significantly.
Did you figure out a way to delay the LCD shutoff, or more importantly turn off the beep when the LCD shutoff? I like the throttle, but the beeping is really annoying.
Human[c]ity Junction Yes, you can delay the LCD shutoff by adjusting ID 18 and 19 in the “Options Editor” setting in the menu. I have not been able to figure out a way to disable the beeping when the throttle goes to sleep (I set mine to never go to sleep). You can also disable the throttle and button “clicking” in that menu. This is all on page 21-22 of the manual (can be found online on Digitrax website).
@@ck7813 I will check again on ID 18 and 19. I thought I adjusted them, but the timeout did not change while in tethered mode. Untethered, it seemed to work. I will check again.
so i bought this starter kit evox with the 602 throttle i put batteries in it but i cannot control my trains wirelessly the ln symbol is missing at the top of the screen as soon as i plug the throttle in to the loconet jack i can run trains again any idea what im doing wrong i cant find anywhere online to solve the issue.....any ideas would be greatly appreciated!
If you bought the "evox" version, you cannot operate trains wirelessly. The "evoxd" is the version you have to purchase to run wirelessly. The "d" refers to "Duplex" which is Digitrax's designation for wireless (radio) operation. The product review I conducted was on the non-Duplex throttle and it requires constant tethering to the command station via Loconet for operation.
Helpful review as I am considering the system. What is not clear to me is you mentioned that you need to be tethered to the command station. If that is the case, then what is the point of having batteries installed on the device? For the non-duplex version, are batteries required when you are have cable connected to the control station?. I would appreciate your feedback on this. Thanks and great video!
@@ceciliaperez-benitoa26 With how my system is setup, I have to be tethered to the command station because I use a simple universal panel (the UP5) that does not support infrared operation. You can use this throttle (the non-Duplex version) in infrared mode if you have a UR90 control panel. If you get the Duplex version, you can run it fully as a wireless controller. Either using Duplex or infrared, as soon as you untether it, you need battery power. On my layout I have two separate universal panels so having batteries in the DT602 allows me to unplug from one panel and plug into another without the throttle turning off. In theory, if you never had to unplug your DT602, you would not need batteries but since batteries are inexpensive, I have never run any of my Digitrax throttles without batteries.
Yes, you can disable it in the throttle's "option editor" menu. You can also adjust the time the throttle stays "awake" when not in use. What you are seeing demonstrated in this video are the factory defaults. I have it programmed now to stay on longer and not beep when it goes to sleep.
I am interested in your 8059 having Gyrolite headlights. I need to know what the DCC Decoder number is? I will install Caltrain f40ph and Gallery car cab too. Let me know. Thumbs up! Cheers!
Hi John, this is difficult to answer because it will depend on what decoder you are using. The Intermountain GP10s have Loksound select decoders and the Headlight is controlled by CV 259 (page 29 of the Loksound select manual found on ESU.eu provides you with the instructions on how to get the Gyrolite effect). You need to know what decoder you are using and consulting the manual for that decoder.
@@johnfenlon458 Hi John, with all due respect, is there a local hobby shop you can go to for assistance? It isn't just as simple as buying a decoder. You have to have a decoder that is compatible with your locomotive (is your locomotive setup for a DCC decoder? It is a 9 pin? Is it a 21 pin? is it a next18?). Does your locomotive have a speaker, do you want a speaker for sound? The only decoders available now are Loksound 5 DCC from ESU, but they come in various sizes and compatibility. If you have not installed a decoder before, it is not easy, you need to do your research. Once installed, then you need to program it. Most Loksound decoders are blank, meaning you have to download a soundfile from their site and install it. You need a computer and Lokprogrammer to do this. Some vendors will program the sound for you, but you would still need to modify the CVs to get the Gyralite effect. My recommendation is to try to find a local modeler who can help you. I don't want you to get in over your head and spend a bunch of money and not get the effect you want.
I part purchased the same digitrack system. And have it mounted on my layout, but I'm confused As how to hook up the module that you plug in your controller to the base unit. I was wondering if you might be able to. explain to me. where that module is plugged in in the back. as there are multiple places to plug it in and where you plug it in on the base unit.
Thanks, Doug. The DT602 comes with a cord (that looks like an old-school phone cord) and has an RJ12 jack on each end (again, looks like an old phone jack you would plug into your wall). One end plugs into the end of the DT602 throttle and the other end plugs into the "Loconet" jack on your command station. Just look for the word "Loconet" and plug it in and you are ready to go!
Great review! It was what I needed to make the decision to buy. I just got mine and everything is so easy to use. My only problem is the power button on my throttle does not seem to work properly. When I try to use it to turn track power or throttle on/off, the option menu only appears for a fraction of a second not allowing me time to select an option. Have you experienced this before? Currently, the only way I can switch track power is by using JMRI on my connected computer and I have to wait for the throttle to automatically shutdown.
I know the power button is sort of finicky on mine, I have to sort of touch it from the side, but it does work. I would recommend contacting Digitrax support. Your throttle might need a firmware upgrade to take care of it. If you are using JMRI you have the technical skills to do the firmware since you have a computer connected to your command station. The Digitrax people should be able to help or go to groups.io and join the Digitrax group and post your issue there. That site has a lot of knowledgeable users!
Thanks, Jason. You are correct, the current version of the throttle has the soft keys D, E and F programmed to F10 - 12. When the DT602 was released last summer (and when I created this video), the soft keys were not programmed to F10 -12. A firmware release later in 2020 rectified that problem after feedback from some of the initial users that they missed that functionality from the 400 and 500 series throttles.
At this time, I am damned glad I didn't spend the $$$ on the DT602D! Way more difficult to do simple tasks... Nice that there is a power on/off switch, but so much to learn, compared to the DT400/Dt500 series throttles. I am going to purchase a couple of used DT500s for the time being. Also, consider other MFRs for future DCC systems. Digitrax has been on a rogue path which I can't understand. tech support is becoming non-existent and the cost of a basic Radio system is almost $500+.
Thanks, Claude. I don't have a video specifically for setting up an MU with the DT602. I do have a video on consisting with the UT6 th-cam.com/video/qvNOqBBgpbQ/w-d-xo.html. It is a very similar process with the DT602. The instruction manual with the DT602 has great MU instructions that start on page 11: www.digitrax.com/media/apps/products/throttles/dt602/documents/DT602_Manual_Web_ViBCEu9.pdf You should be able to follow along and get it to work for your layout!
Just be careful when fitting those AA batteries the wrong way ( we do make mistakes ) because unlike the DT500D the new throttle will blow a fuse and then it has to go back to Digitrax ..... the DT500 can accept a flipped over battery no problem ( actually that is the recommended battery storage position ) and the 9 volt also comes in a rechargeable format and yes unfortunately this throttle does not fit this popular throttle pocket . Newer is not always better
3/4 of the through this video, and no word if the three AA batteries recharge in the unit when hooked up to wires. (weather on or off), very sad if they do not.
Thanks, George. No, it was not free. Everything you see on my channel I purchase myself either online or at my local bricks-and-mortar hobby shop. I understand that a lot of the product reviews you see on here are from people who receive the item(s) for free in exchanges for advertisement of the product/business. I do these videos to help fellow modelers and try to provide information so people can make informed decisions when purchasing products. You may like this product, you may not, but I hope my videos provide some level of information so you can make your decision. If I ever receive a product to demo, I will make sure I fully disclose that information.
Why? What does digitrax think they are accomplishing? The four hundred and five hundred throttles are just fine. The only thing digitrax should have done was to put a one source operation on the throttle for doing advanced consisting as nce does. What is so hard about doing that? No, this new throttle doesn't need to be, at all. By the way, I am a digitrax user.
Certainly better than the Very outdated D400 and 500 series but still primitive IMHO. Cannot update with just any Loconet, must be a Digitrax command station , Radio throttle, still?? WiFi is better. AA batteries WTF how about rechargeable Lipo. No F10-28 on screen, Tethered... still? Wow it's 2020, ESU,Zimo,Roco all have changed with the times... NCE and Digitrax still back in prehistoric times. Sorry for the rant.
This is a super upgrade! Every time I use my DT402 I feel like I am holding something from the 1980's. Thank god somebody decided to improve the tech lol even though it kinda looks like a mid 90's cell phone hahaha
Looking at replacing my 6 month old broken NCE Power CAB (don't ask). I wish I had seen this system first because I think it is more what I want. Oh well we live and learn. Thank you for the demo really helped to see the functions of the Digitrax.
Excellent video, thanks! I have one coming in a few days. I wouldn’t say to replace my ESU ECOS, just yet, but you never know. I have watched a few videos and so far, yours is the only one that has touched on CV programming, very helpful. I started with Digitrax many years ago and kind of miss the system capabilities.
Outstanding video. I have been struggling with my new 602 and this is the best video I haw found. Thanks a lot!
Thanks for sharing this video and information. I’m considering getting one our clubhouse layouts. Tennessee Valley Model Railroads ( HO, N layouts) Bell Buckle TN
Update 23 March 2023 received a DT602D from Yankee Dabbler ( fast delivery)
Tested it on Club HO layout first impressions very nice, after watching your video much easier to use than my old DT402D.
Really great unboxing and review. Just found your channel as a link from Digitrax throttle announcement. First I heard about the new throttle and the first review, thanks. Checked out your list of videos and it’s exactly what I’m into; trains, Digitrax and nascar, even a great video of Dale Earnhardt winning. I’m subscribed and looking forward to more videos when I finish all of these. Thanks for sharing and keep up the good work.
A very good review with one minor caveat. Ops mode programming will only edit the locomotive that is selected. The older DB100a and DB 150 used as command stations do not off this as an option so that is the only way to program all of the locomotives.
Thanks, Lawrence. You are correct! It is an old habit that is tough to break and I tend to forget that newer command stations have rectified that issue.
@@ck7813 no worries trust me if you have been around long enough to remember that you are entitled. It was a very good review! Keep up the great work.
I expect that someone will develop a new throttle pocket design for it in a relatively short time, just like the one done for the proto throttle.
I may have to get one of these and put my old 402D in reserve if I ever get around to building myself an HO layout. I haven't seen my 402D in so long I probably won't even know what it looked like if I had to look for it.😅
Very nicely done video. I'm thinking of changing over to Digitrax because what looks to be a better display and built in USB. Looks like you have the Zephyr all in one starter set and the new throttle, are you pretty happy with that set up. I have an N scale layout that is expanding in size but only plan on having 2-3 consist tops running at any given time, do you think the DCS52 is sufficient? My procab seems to get pretty hot when I have one or more consists even just idling with sound on.
Thanks
Mario
Thank you for the product review!. I just recently purchased one and I'm trying to get the hang of it. Your video really simplified things . Struggling with trying to not have a few locomotives start up when track power is turned on . I want them to start with F8. Trying to adjust esu decoder .
Thanks, Peter. ESU decoders (at least the new ones) should not initiate the startup sequence when track power is applied. Soundtrax (Tsunami) decoders are default programmed to initiate when track power is applied. Email me at ck7813 @ yahoo.com (don’t add the spaces) and I can help tell you what CVs you need to change
Thank You. You help me understand more my system.
It looks like it will fit in your throttle cradle width-wise so if it were me, I would find out how much deeper the cradle needs to be & cut four pieces of aluminum tubing that has an inner diameter just large enough to fit screws through and long enough to offset your cradle. I have done that to a similar project & it looked very professional once completed. Just a thought & should hold your other throttles just fine as well.
You need to get the firmware update (15-JUL-2020) to eliminate the constant beeping, it is just a month old and already it has been a modification. The later releases have turned this function off as a default.
This is why I usually wait 6months or more before I consider buying a new design. I wait to see the market usage that brings out issues. Maybe for Christmas.
It comes with the evolution starter set
I didn't think Digitraxx could make their throttles any more complicated. And Digitraxx is all I have ever used. Must have been said during design, "I know, we'll cut down the amount of buttons so that the buttons we have on it do even more separate functions". Bad idea. I like the bigger throttle knobs and the Soft Power ON /Off and the lanyard ability. And maybe the screen is better than the 500D. But losing buttons 10 -12 and the hoops you have to jump through are just unforgivable. About the only way I will buy one of these is if my other two throttles break significantly.
D E F ... aren't those function keys, too? So you have one press for Brake? (I don't have it, still researching.)
Did you figure out a way to delay the LCD shutoff, or more importantly turn off the beep when the LCD shutoff? I like the throttle, but the beeping is really annoying.
Human[c]ity Junction Yes, you can delay the LCD shutoff by adjusting ID 18 and 19 in the “Options Editor” setting in the menu. I have not been able to figure out a way to disable the beeping when the throttle goes to sleep (I set mine to never go to sleep). You can also disable the throttle and button “clicking” in that menu. This is all on page 21-22 of the manual (can be found online on Digitrax website).
@@ck7813 I will check again on ID 18 and 19. I thought I adjusted them, but the timeout did not change while in tethered mode. Untethered, it seemed to work. I will check again.
There is a firmware upgrade being applied to the unit now. Ensure that's been factory applied before ordering
so i bought this starter kit evox with the 602 throttle i put batteries in it but i cannot control my trains wirelessly the ln symbol is missing at the top of the screen as soon as i plug the throttle in to the loconet jack i can run trains again any idea what im doing wrong i cant find anywhere online to solve the issue.....any ideas would be greatly appreciated!
If you bought the "evox" version, you cannot operate trains wirelessly. The "evoxd" is the version you have to purchase to run wirelessly. The "d" refers to "Duplex" which is Digitrax's designation for wireless (radio) operation. The product review I conducted was on the non-Duplex throttle and it requires constant tethering to the command station via Loconet for operation.
Ohh ok thx!
Helpful review as I am considering the system. What is not clear to me is you mentioned that you need to be tethered to the command station. If that is the case, then what is the point of having batteries installed on the device? For the non-duplex version, are batteries required when you are have cable connected to the control station?. I would appreciate your feedback on this. Thanks and great video!
@@ceciliaperez-benitoa26 With how my system is setup, I have to be tethered to the command station because I use a simple universal panel (the UP5) that does not support infrared operation. You can use this throttle (the non-Duplex version) in infrared mode if you have a UR90 control panel. If you get the Duplex version, you can run it fully as a wireless controller. Either using Duplex or infrared, as soon as you untether it, you need battery power. On my layout I have two separate universal panels so having batteries in the DT602 allows me to unplug from one panel and plug into another without the throttle turning off. In theory, if you never had to unplug your DT602, you would not need batteries but since batteries are inexpensive, I have never run any of my Digitrax throttles without batteries.
Very cool. Thinking about getting a starter set with this controller... Can you change the beeping for the time out? It's quite loud and frequent haha
Yes, you can disable it in the throttle's "option editor" menu. You can also adjust the time the throttle stays "awake" when not in use. What you are seeing demonstrated in this video are the factory defaults. I have it programmed now to stay on longer and not beep when it goes to sleep.
@@ck7813 thank you!!
Could you please do a video on speed matching locomotives using the DT602
I am interested in your 8059 having Gyrolite headlights. I need to know what the DCC Decoder number is? I will install Caltrain f40ph and Gallery car cab too. Let me know. Thumbs up! Cheers!
Hi John, this is difficult to answer because it will depend on what decoder you are using. The Intermountain GP10s have Loksound select decoders and the Headlight is controlled by CV 259 (page 29 of the Loksound select manual found on ESU.eu provides you with the instructions on how to get the Gyrolite effect). You need to know what decoder you are using and consulting the manual for that decoder.
@@ck7813 Ahh I have a Digitrax controller, no problem. I will check if Loksound decoders will work with Gyrolite headlights. Thanks. Thumbs up!
@@ck7813 I checked ESU.eu there 9 decoder lists. Which should I get the same as your GP10 decoder? Let me know Thanks
@@johnfenlon458 Hi John, with all due respect, is there a local hobby shop you can go to for assistance? It isn't just as simple as buying a decoder. You have to have a decoder that is compatible with your locomotive (is your locomotive setup for a DCC decoder? It is a 9 pin? Is it a 21 pin? is it a next18?). Does your locomotive have a speaker, do you want a speaker for sound? The only decoders available now are Loksound 5 DCC from ESU, but they come in various sizes and compatibility. If you have not installed a decoder before, it is not easy, you need to do your research. Once installed, then you need to program it. Most Loksound decoders are blank, meaning you have to download a soundfile from their site and install it. You need a computer and Lokprogrammer to do this. Some vendors will program the sound for you, but you would still need to modify the CVs to get the Gyralite effect. My recommendation is to try to find a local modeler who can help you. I don't want you to get in over your head and spend a bunch of money and not get the effect you want.
Thanks! it's a bit of a trick to turn off, you really do have to loom for PWR off! on key C
Does anyone else here think they designed this thing while looking at the dimensions for the current playmate of the month?
😆Now that you say that, that’s what I see. The Jessica Rabbit of throttles. However I still think it’s cool.
I part purchased the same digitrack system. And have it mounted on my layout, but I'm confused As how to hook up the module that you plug in your controller to the base unit. I was wondering if you might be able to. explain to me. where that module is plugged in in the back. as there are multiple places to plug it in and where you plug it in on the base unit.
Thanks, Doug. The DT602 comes with a cord (that looks like an old-school phone cord) and has an RJ12 jack on each end (again, looks like an old phone jack you would plug into your wall). One end plugs into the end of the DT602 throttle and the other end plugs into the "Loconet" jack on your command station. Just look for the word "Loconet" and plug it in and you are ready to go!
Do you know if this is compatible with the original Digitrax Zephyr?
Should be backwards compatible with all Digitrax systems as I understand it.
Great review! It was what I needed to make the decision to buy. I just got mine and everything is so easy to use. My only problem is the power button on my throttle does not seem to work properly. When I try to use it to turn track power or throttle on/off, the option menu only appears for a fraction of a second not allowing me time to select an option. Have you experienced this before? Currently, the only way I can switch track power is by using JMRI on my connected computer and I have to wait for the throttle to automatically shutdown.
I know the power button is sort of finicky on mine, I have to sort of touch it from the side, but it does work. I would recommend contacting Digitrax support. Your throttle might need a firmware upgrade to take care of it. If you are using JMRI you have the technical skills to do the firmware since you have a computer connected to your command station. The Digitrax people should be able to help or go to groups.io and join the Digitrax group and post your issue there. That site has a lot of knowledgeable users!
@@ck7813 I figured that out by accident. It’s almost like it’s a mix between a push button and rocker switch. Very strange.
The soft keys D, E, and F are F10, F11, and F12.
Thanks, Jason. You are correct, the current version of the throttle has the soft keys D, E and F programmed to F10 - 12. When the DT602 was released last summer (and when I created this video), the soft keys were not programmed to F10 -12. A firmware release later in 2020 rectified that problem after feedback from some of the initial users that they missed that functionality from the 400 and 500 series throttles.
At this time, I am damned glad I didn't spend the $$$ on the DT602D! Way more difficult to do simple tasks... Nice that there is a power on/off switch, but so much to learn, compared to the DT400/Dt500 series throttles. I am going to purchase a couple of used DT500s for the time being. Also, consider other MFRs for future DCC systems. Digitrax has been on a rogue path which I can't understand. tech support is becoming non-existent and the cost of a basic Radio system is almost $500+.
Hey, quick question for you.
How do you MU locomotives together using that throttle?
Thanks, Claude. I don't have a video specifically for setting up an MU with the DT602. I do have a video on consisting with the UT6 th-cam.com/video/qvNOqBBgpbQ/w-d-xo.html. It is a very similar process with the DT602. The instruction manual with the DT602 has great MU instructions that start on page 11: www.digitrax.com/media/apps/products/throttles/dt602/documents/DT602_Manual_Web_ViBCEu9.pdf You should be able to follow along and get it to work for your layout!
had 2 of these fail in a month!! including a booster! haha Good luck
Just be careful when fitting those AA batteries the wrong way ( we do make mistakes ) because unlike the DT500D the new throttle will blow a fuse and then it has to go back to Digitrax ..... the DT500 can accept a flipped over battery no problem ( actually that is the recommended battery storage position ) and the 9 volt also comes in a rechargeable format and yes unfortunately this throttle does not fit this popular throttle pocket . Newer is not always better
3/4 of the through this video, and no word if the three AA batteries recharge in the unit when hooked up to wires. (weather on or off), very sad if they do not.
WAS IT FREE ????????????????/
Thanks, George. No, it was not free. Everything you see on my channel I purchase myself either online or at my local bricks-and-mortar hobby shop. I understand that a lot of the product reviews you see on here are from people who receive the item(s) for free in exchanges for advertisement of the product/business. I do these videos to help fellow modelers and try to provide information so people can make informed decisions when purchasing products. You may like this product, you may not, but I hope my videos provide some level of information so you can make your decision. If I ever receive a product to demo, I will make sure I fully disclose that information.
Why? What does digitrax think they are accomplishing? The four hundred and five hundred throttles are just fine. The only thing digitrax should have done was to put a one source operation on the throttle for doing advanced consisting as nce does. What is so hard about doing that? No, this new throttle doesn't need to be, at all. By the way, I am a digitrax user.
Certainly better than the Very outdated D400 and 500 series but still primitive IMHO. Cannot update with just any Loconet, must be a Digitrax command station , Radio throttle, still?? WiFi is better. AA batteries WTF how about rechargeable Lipo. No F10-28 on screen, Tethered... still? Wow it's 2020, ESU,Zimo,Roco all have changed with the times... NCE and Digitrax still back in prehistoric times. Sorry for the rant.