selecting a decoder

[LIRR]

when I switched from N to HO I bought a Bachmann standard DC F7, on sale, about $70. I didn't want to spend a lot until I was sure I was making the N-to-HO change. It's "DCC ready with a factory-installed 8-pin socket for DCC decoder installation". I am looking for a basic, inexpensive (least expensive) plug-in decoder (if one exists) to get this on the road. No sound.

I was at my LHS today, saw an NCE 8-pin decoder on the shelf, but it was $60. I can buy a new Bachmann F7 with DCC & sound for $70 + shipping.
If I can get this moving for 20 or 30 bux, it's worth it, but not for 50 or 60.

Any recommendations would be appreciated.

[jdcolombo]

Digitrax N/HO DN136PS 1-Amp Mobile Decoder with Short 8 Pin Harness, about $20 from most e-tailers.

ESU 54611 LokPilot V4.0 NMRA DCC Decoder NEM652 8 Pin Wired Plug, $27 at SBS4DCC
http://store.sbs4dcc.com/ESU54611LokPilotV4.0NMRADCCDecoderNEM6528PinWiredPlug.aspx

ZIMO MX600R Basic DCC Decoder - NEM652 8-pin Wired Connector  $25 at SBS4DCC
http://store.sbs4dcc.com/ZimoMX600RStandardNMRADCCDecoderNEM6528-pinWiredPlug.aspx

Personally, I'd spend a few buck extra for the ESU or ZIMO decoders because of their generally superior motor control.  But you'd probably be fine with the Digitrax one.

John C.

[LIRR]

thanks John,

i'll give it a try

R

[lajmdlr]

Here's a LokPilot Standard DC/DCC Decoder w/ NMRA 8 Pin Harness on eBay for $22.99 with shipping included: https://www.ebay.com/itm/352436987863