Decoder Availability

[Bobski]

Hi everyone.

 

Apologies for the total newbie question, but I'm fairly new to DCC and I'm finding it harder and harder to get 8-pin or 21-pin decoders. I've got a mixed fleet of Heljan and Bachmann diesels in OO, chipped with either Bachmann or Hornby Sapphire decoders, but the Bachmann decoders are becoming hard to find (my LHS has them, but I'm not sure how long the supply will last). I don't mind using the Sapphires (I've found the Heljan diesels work better with them) but I'm wondering what alternatives there are? Can anyone point me in the direction of good 8-pin and 21-pin decoders (not sound) that are readily available please?

 

Thanks!

[charliepetty]

Hi everyone.

 

Apologies for the total newbie question, but I'm fairly new to DCC and I'm finding it harder and harder to get 8-pin or 21-pin decoders. I've got a mixed fleet of Heljan and Bachmann diesels in OO, chipped with either Bachmann or Hornby Sapphire decoders, but the Bachmann decoders are becoming hard to find (my LHS has them, but I'm not sure how long the supply will last). I don't mind using the Sapphires (I've found the Heljan diesels work better with them) but I'm wondering what alternatives there are? Can anyone point me in the direction of good 8-pin and 21-pin decoders (not sound) that are readily available please?

 

Thanks!

Lenz are very good for Heljan and have a overload feature that re-sets and don't burn them out. The are dearer though.  www.dckits-devideos.co.uk are a good source for these.

[RFS]

Plenty of choice at Hatton's - Hornby Sapphire, Bachmann and Lenz to quote but a few.  The Lenz Standard+ decoder is very good with its overload protection, and is far superior to the Bachmann equivalents for only a few pounds more. You can use this in a 21-pin loco with the 21-pin/8-pin converter, or else use the Lenz Silver21+. 

[Stevelewis]

Plenty of choice at Hatton's - Hornby Sapphire, Bachmann and Lenz to quote but a few.  The Lenz Standard+ decoder is very good with its overload protection, and is far superior to the Bachmann equivalents for only a few pounds more. You can use this in a 21-pin loco with the 21-pin/8-pin converter, or else use the Lenz Silver21+. 

I fully  agree  with  the  above  HATTONS  have  loads  of  choice  and  the  mail  order  service  is  superb, if  you  are  new  to  the  Hobby  I would  advise you not  to worry  about  buying  from   Mail order  retailers,  in the  main  the  service  is  good.  and  probalby less expensive,  

[Bobski]

Thanks everyone. I've used Hattons a few times (they're my main source for bits and pieces) but I'm struggling to find the right decoders from them, at least via ehattons.com. Will have a look at the others though, thanks.

[charliepetty]

Thanks everyone. I've used Hattons a few times (they're my main source for bits and pieces) but I'm struggling to find the right decoders from them, at least via ehattons.com. Will have a look at the others though, thanks.

Hattons are not a DCC Specialist, Try DC Kits, Coastal, Digitrains.  ALL very good and have Websites.

[shibushe]

Yes Hattons are not DCC specialists. ( I Know)  I only use Digitrains or DCC Supplies.

If you get your order in usualy before 2 pm you can get it next day.

Both these companys have a comprehesive decoder website.

It will tell you if its in or out of stock.

They will also offer phone advice, very good.

Usual Disclaimer.

[mikeg]

I have found that TCS T1's are a very good chip and not to expensive, they can be got from Digitrains of Digby, Lincolnshire, no connection just a satisfied customer, they send out the same day if you Phone before midday.

 

regards

 

mike g