Sound value.  I've read that the TCS decoders are even better.  Hard to imagine how.  And yes, the smooth running at slow speed makes it nice and easy to manipulate connecting cars, navigating turnouts....etc.

John, I've purchased several items from the kitbash parts site and have been very happy with what I received. The only thing I can say is, if you find something you need or like, buy immediately because a lot of the items are onesies or twosies, meaning that once they're sold, they may never show up again. I'm familiar with Deerfield River Laser, have purchased from them in the past and have been very satisfied. Good luck with your modeling.

It would  have to be a very small piece if you had to cut an Atlas one shorter than the Bachmann 3/4" piece.

The Seemingly slow top speed is probably prototypical.  Most model engines run way too fast. 

The hard thing on models is to get them to run prototypically slowly.  When your DCC engine is on the slow side to begin with, you can really achieve remarkably slow speed Via manipulation of motor control CV's.

Does your engine have a TCS decoder? Or is it a "sound value" decoder?

WOW!  I had no idea this was part of Bachmann parts-I could have used a bunch of the passenger car chassis and roofs for 10 of the Deerfield River Laser passenger car conversions I've built over the years.  If you don't know about these kits, check this out-not affiliated, just a very happy modeler.  http://www.deerfieldriverlaser.com/MaineCarsSides.html

Update.  I got my first DCC loco with sound yesterday.  Bachmann Santa Fe War Bonnet diesel.  A little underwhelmed with the top end speed.  But really impressed with all the sound and light control functions.  Definitely brings the entire experience up to a new level.

Quote from: CraigB on May 02, 2024, 07:16:09 PMIs it really thT easy to do if they are not DCC ready?

It depends. WHat locomotives are you trying to convert?

This brings up a question.  The Bachmann (Model 36508) EZ Command Dynamis Wireless DCC System can handle multiple addresses?  That is, be programmed with long addresses?  Also the Dynamis also can program/control the multiple CV's like other manufacturers.

Inquiring minds would like to know are there any Dynamis users out there?

I ran into this same problem where I wanted the EZ track to match up to a slight incline on my layout.  All of the EZ track short sections were either too short or too long.  This is where the Flex track comes in.  If it's a slight curve flex track can be cut to fit.  If it's a short piece of straight track then the Atlas straight track can be cut down to fit.  The best part is that the EZ track does not need to be modified.  That's right, you do not need to cut into the connector of the EZ track.  The atlas and flex track will attach directly to the EZ using a connector pin piece.  The other connector piece is supplied from the EZ track.
Financially, EZ track is expensive, the Atlas and Flex is much more economical and cutting them up to make EZ track fit in my view, provide the least expense.
Hope this helps.

As always, I'm late to the conversation....

Quote...I have a few DC engines from back in the Jurassic that I'd like to run sometimes....

Quote...I understand why people want to try to keep partial DC, to keep locomotives they've already invested in. But really, it's like graduating from elementary school to high school....

My experience: If you have a large enough layout, you could keep both the DC and the DCC systems.  And yes, you could just install a DPDT switch as suggested, or separate the two electrical systems, DC and DCC from one another.  Two entirely separate tracks electrically isolated.  I wanted to keep my old "steam locomotives" which I hardly run, and the few DC diesels that I have, and they are on a separate (although short length of track).  This is what I call my museum pieces.  I can operate them, it's just that they don't go far.   My DCC track is the mother of all layouts and for the most part, I never left elementary school with the DC, but jumped directly to graduate school with DCC.  I will need you guys to let me know if I ever move from either elementary, high, or higher in this modeling career.

If you decide on the DPDT, make sure it's a "break before make" switch.  This will ensure the two power sources to not make contact with each other.   There will be an instance where someone will forget to turn off the power supplies and switch that DPDT. which is an accident waiting to happen.  Also understand that there are some models of DPDT switches that are made to make continuous contact when switching from one to source to another.  (Like switching systems from say, a DC battery supply to a DC power source.  It's called an uninterruptible power switching, where switching that DPDT switch does not cause a loss of power).
...and if you are wondering did I do that, no, but my kids did.  That's why I now have two separate power systems on my layout.