Under Construction
Most of this information was copied from the Lenz site. I plan to modify it to apply more directly to S scale modelers, and to modelers who want to operate Gilbert American Flyer using DCC.
We are offering two Lenz Professional Starter sets, the Set-90 and Set-100. These are starter sets in the sense that they are complete DCC systems, ready to run (with the exception of a power supply). But they are NOT limited fuctionality, low powered, limited expansion, built to a price "getting in the door" sets. We believe the best way for an S modeler to get started with DCC is to buy a set which will last a lifetime. These sets are absolutely full-featured, expandable, "Professional" sets!
The Set-90 and Set-100 only differ in the handheld that is provided with the set.
Set-90 includes an LH90 Engineer's throttle, an LZV100 Command/Power Station, easy to read manuals and a coupon for a super discount on two decoders. The MSRP for the Set-90 is $299.95.
The Set-90 supports 31 XpressNet handhelds, 4 digit addressing, all forms of programming including our advanced one step address programming and operations mode programming, layout control feedback, advanced consisting, control of 256 locomotives and 999 turnouts, and 10 NMRA DCC functions (F1-F8 plus F0 forward and F0 reverse). The Set 90 is ideal for those DCC users who enjoy the feel of a well designed knob controller.
Set-100 includes an LH100 dispatchers throttle, an LZV100 Command/Power Station, easy to read manuals and a coupon for a super discount on two decoders. The MSRP for the Set-100 is $399.95.
The Set-100 supports 31 handhelds, 4 digit addressing, all forms of programming, layout control feedback, advanced consisting, control of 256 locomotives and 1024 turnouts, and all 14 NMRA DCC functions (F1-F12 plus F0 forward and F0 reverse).
The LH100 included with the Set-100 can also create momentary functions on a per function per locomotive basis. XpressNet devices such as the LH100, LH90, and XPA can take advantage of any available momentary functions once set up by a LH100.
The Set-100 is ideal for those users who enjoy the greater precision of push button control or for those that want the most features.
Expandable - While you may never need it we have designed our new sets to grow throughout the life of your model railroad empire. This lets you have access to a large multitude of devices from a growing set of DCC manufacturers, who support XpressNET.
Growth - Upgrading through software enhancements is a hallmark of Lenz DIGITAL plus systems. There have been a lot of advances in DCC since Lenz introduced their advanced 14 speed step 5 function system in 1993. Because they understand that more advances are yet to come, they design each of their devices with the understanding that because technology changes our users deserve the comfort of knowing their Digital plus system will not be obsolete any time soon. Users who purchased Lenz systems in 1993 still enjoy the latest DCC features with their systems because of these upgrades.
Which set is best for you
Both sets are ideal for S scale model railroad operation whether your railroad is a small branch line or a large class 1 railroad. The difference is in the style of the handheld. But remember you can have all the advantages of both throttles on each system, by adding a second LH (handheld/throttle).
If you like that smooth feel of a knob then the Set-90 is best. The custom design of the knob on the LH90 provides exceptionally smooth control and is very to use, even when holding the throttle by your side or behind your back. We designed this throttle so that it is easy to operate in one hand while controlling speed and direction. In other words you can concentrate on your trains, not the throttle. The direction switch also works well for reversing direction on an unmodified Gilbert American Flyer Locomotive. If you plan to run unmodified Gilbert, you probably will want an LH90 knob handheld.
If you like the precision of pushbutton control or want the extra features included in our dispatchers throttle then the LH100 is best. Long a favorite, the LH100 pushbuttons allow for either single step multiple step or smooth continuous step speed acceleration and deceleration. The LCD display provides a full reading of the speed/direction and function status of the locomotive being controlled. Many people like the more complete information indicated on the LH100.
Many operators use the LH100 for programming and operate with the LH90. The price difference in the system is due to the price difference of the throttles.
So, all in all, each system offers excellent model railroad control, but it depends on what throttle that style you prefer.
