Well, it arrived this morning. Very easy even for a novice to work the basic functions. Second opinion, Piko Navigator, while it may have the software, does not have the hardware of the Massoth unit. I was aware only the display screen and stop buttons were illuminated, but the Piko rotary dial does not have the sophistication of the Massoth. The Piko rotary dial is just a lump of red plastic, not the illuminated dial with next setting loco speed indication of the Massoth Navigator.
Thirdly, the dual purpose receiver (analogue/digital) has changed from initial factory photographs. In an attempt at waterproofing, the box does not have direct openings for the analogue or bus connectors. The box top cover must be removed and the appropriate cable fitted (digital bus or analogue cable). The top cover is then refitted to seal the box. A warning states not to connect both analogue and digital cables at the same time. I assume they mean do not attach power to both leads at the same time, i.e., central station and analogue controller operating simultaneously. My first thought was that a second receiver dedicated to analogue use would be needed, unless one connected both leads to the receiver and only used onesource at a time.
The operation was very smooth and wireless ops faultless. I did not try range as yet as I was only trying a short test track. My opinion based on my total lack of DCC knowledge is that it does the job for me. I am only after basic operation, but it has consisting, route selection and two locomotive driving control simultaneously using both the rotary dials and the the left/centre and right buttons below the rotary dial. One can control a loco and switch routes simultaneously if one is very adept.
It has its limitations but then it was a fraction of the cost of the Massoth. I feel it is designed for the newcomer who is looking at the LGB MTS but wants a better hand control and more updated digital features without the MTS limitations. Definately not in the league of the Massoth, but for me it does the job that I expected and at an affordable price level. I am not being negative, but then I did not buy a Volkswagen thinking I was getting a Buggati Veyron.
Thirdly, the dual purpose receiver (analogue/digital) has changed from initial factory photographs. In an attempt at waterproofing, the box does not have direct openings for the analogue or bus connectors. The box top cover must be removed and the appropriate cable fitted (digital bus or analogue cable). The top cover is then refitted to seal the box. A warning states not to connect both analogue and digital cables at the same time. I assume they mean do not attach power to both leads at the same time, i.e., central station and analogue controller operating simultaneously. My first thought was that a second receiver dedicated to analogue use would be needed, unless one connected both leads to the receiver and only used onesource at a time.
The operation was very smooth and wireless ops faultless. I did not try range as yet as I was only trying a short test track. My opinion based on my total lack of DCC knowledge is that it does the job for me. I am only after basic operation, but it has consisting, route selection and two locomotive driving control simultaneously using both the rotary dials and the the left/centre and right buttons below the rotary dial. One can control a loco and switch routes simultaneously if one is very adept.
It has its limitations but then it was a fraction of the cost of the Massoth. I feel it is designed for the newcomer who is looking at the LGB MTS but wants a better hand control and more updated digital features without the MTS limitations. Definately not in the league of the Massoth, but for me it does the job that I expected and at an affordable price level. I am not being negative, but then I did not buy a Volkswagen thinking I was getting a Buggati Veyron.
