QUOTE (Dennis David @ 4 Jun 2006, 00:16)
<{POST_SNAPBACK}>I don't know why Lenz doesn't come out with a better hand held.
Lenz run the risk of falling behind in the handset and startset market.
New budget systems like the NCE Power Cab, Hornby Elite, and Roco MultiMouse have made the Lenz Compact redundant as a starter option, and in specification are "knocking on the door" of more expensive systems like the Lenz Set 90 & 100.
Lenz seem to have poured all their efforts into other areas of DCC, such as producing all the wonderful add on modules and introducing the excellent Silver and Gold range of decoders. Now they are pushing into model Locomotives. It must be time to look at the basic DCC system itself.
The Lenz 100 is a very good system but the handset/throttle needs updating in a number of areas, not least the display and an easier method for changing points/route setting for those who want to do it via the handset.
The Lenz Compact urgently needs replacing if they intend to continue offering a budget product. It's a very dated design with limited capability and only 2 digit addressing. Newer similarly priced alternatives have it licked for specification and functionality.
If I was looking for a budget or first system, I now wouldn't even consider it.