My first loco arrives today! (OK, with the shipping issues around the nation, we'll see!) I've ordered the Bachmann 60916 BNSF #1734 - Heritage III SD40-2. It has DCC but not sound. Yeah, I probably should have sprung for the sound version, but I'm putting a lot into my first layout. My question is, can DCC sound be added to the loco at a later date, and how does one do that? Your help is appreciated!

John

Many thanks for the quick answers! Yes, I am looking at the Digitrax DCS52 as a starter, as it has more power than the E-Z commander and is is able to do more CV programming. Allow me to ask another question, if I may. I would prefer to use modern-day locos on my new layout. Being unfamiliar with the various locos from different eras, can someone educate me a bit?

Thanks again!

John

As a newbie, I've noticed that our area Menards stores carry some of the Bachmann sets, most notably the Thunderhawk and Rocket Freight packages, both of which seem to be exclusive to Menards. These sets come with GP 40 locos, but as someone new to this, I'd like them to be DCC equipped. Can you fine folks educate me on whether you might know of the quality and features of these "special edition" sets?

Many thanks!

John

First off, it should be roadbed, not roadies! As a newbie to model railroading, perhaps I'm lacking a bit of knowledge. Your answers to my question allude to the fiddle yard as being "hidden". Perhaps I'm not understanding the term "fiddle yard." I assumed it referred to any multi-track yard area. Does it only refer to a multi-track area that is hidden from view of the rest of the layout and used as a staging or storage area? In any event, I guess I should have asked about the type of roadbed used beneath a multi-track yard that is part of the layout. Hope this clarifies my question.

Thanks!

John

My first layout will have a 10 track fiddle yard. I'm planning on using cork for roadbed throughout, but I'm unsure about beds in the yard. Would you recommend a separate bed beneath each track,  or one continuous bed for the whole yard? Thanks,  John