DCC Power management preferences?

[Bill H]

Group;
Any thoughts on your preference for DCC power management. Specifically between the Digitrax PM-74 and the DCC Specialities PSXX-1/2/3?

I can get the PM-74s for $88+ and they support 4 power districts, while the PSXX is roughly $50 per power district. Comparing by total power districts, the PM-74 appears much the better buy. I don't need either of units "extra" features such as occupancy detection (I use BDL-168s) or auto reversing. I only need them for power management.

So, based on your experiences, which do you prefer?

Kind regards,
Bill

[GaryHinshaw]

In terms of reliability, either choice should be fine.  If you don't mind having 4 breakers in one physical package, the PM-74 is a better value. 

My only direct experience is with an earlier version of the PSX (the OG-CB board) which has served me well for years, and I've heard nothing but good things about the PSX (except their cost).   The PM-74 is a solid state upgrade of the PM-42, which had issues.  I'd be very surprised if the -74 didn't perform as well as a PSX.  You're not asking either product to do much.

[Bill H]

Thanks Gary for the input.  I have seen a lot of differences of opinion on other boards, and differences of opinion if the PM-74 is upgraded to solid state relays like the PSXX or is still mechanical relays like the older PM-42.
Kind regards,
Bill

[John]

I would ask Digitrax directly ..