Best way to start from scratch...

[gavin_t]

Hi apologies if this is not the correct section but I was unsure where to place it.

Basically I am planning my first layout. 2x4 size and have zero N gauge stuff at present. 

Now upon visiting local model shops and seeking a bit of advice I was going to pick up a set. (Graham farish highlander) and purchase some extra track from there.
How ever I have since read mixed points from there on about the quality of the items included in the set and that it may be better to make a list and buy seperate?
Anyone got any recent experience of this and any words of wisdom?
What track ?
What controller (dcc)?

Basically looking for a double loop setup with a siding simular to below (without the raise crossover). And power source (want to go dcc) plus a locomotive to run on it to get me started. 

[Railwaygun]

You could do worse than a Kato Unitrack layouts/ bits from Train Trax & Osborns
e
Click together track,motorised points with plug’n play   Electrics  - Farish locos seems to do best ( UK) or any German / japanese companies.

It would get you going quickly and reliably, and if you move on has good resale value ( unlike peco)

Do a search on Unitrack in the NGF search bar for  more detailed advice.

https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?board=131.0
Best wishes

N

Ps I’m biased

[Newportnobby]

I believe track in Farish sets is now Peco. I know half of nothing about DCC but the best advice I've read on the forum is to get to a show near you and ask DCC operators what they use and have a play if they allow you.
DCC Ready locos need running in on DC before you fit the chip of your choice
DCC Fitted locos can be run in on DCC

[Snowwolflair]

Hi apologies if this is not the correct section but I was unsure where to place it.

Basically I am planning my first layout. 2x4 size and have zero N gauge stuff at present. 

Now upon visiting local model shops and seeking a bit of advice I was going to pick up a set. (Graham farish highlander) and purchase some extra track from there.
How ever I have since read mixed points from there on about the quality of the items included in the set and that it may be better to make a list and buy seperate?
Anyone got any recent experience of this and any words of wisdom?
What track ?
What controller (dcc)?

Basically looking for a double loop setup with a siding simular to below (without the raise crossover). And power source (want to go dcc) plus a locomotive to run on it to get me started.

A set is good as it gives you something that works out of the box.  However the Farish track and controller are very basic.  You will always need a DC controller even if you go to DCC to test locos, but if you plan to quickly go to DCC the Farish set controller is more than you need.

If you are going to DC then something like a Morley or Gaugemaster controller would be a good investment.

As for track, until you have practised with flexitrack set track is a good start.  If you are pinning it down then Farish track is ok for a test oval but KATO produce a very robust track and you will find a lot of modellers will sing its praises.

Osborne models are currently doing a GWR HST set with Dapol train and Kato track, add a good controller and you would be well set.

[Train Waiting]

If you are planning your first layout, you might find this helpful.  I know I did.  The author is a regular contributor and is very helpful.

https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?topic=35556.msg416493#msg416493

You mention a 4' x 2' layout.  If possible, you will probably be glad if you can manage 30" width.  This allows a more gentle curve.  On a double track oval you will be able to use Peco Setrack Nos 2 and 3 radii (or Kato equivalents, probably 315mm and 348mm) and still have a bit of space for scenic features.  Here's my little layout:



It's 48" x 30" and uses Peco Setrack.

Kato Unitrack is excellent although the points take up a lot of space.  The #6 points are very reliable, but the #4 points can give problems.  Not with Kato locomotives of course, as Kato is a system.  There is excellent content on the Forum about Kato points.

In the interest of balance I ought to point out that I used the Peco Setrack points and found them completely satisfactory.  Some modellers have had difficulties with these points, though.  Much appears to depend on the type of locomotives one is using on the layout.  And, probably, other factors as well.

Best wishes.

John

[Railwaygun]

have a look at the DCC threads for a mass of conflicting advice  re controllers
https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?topic=2516.0

it boils down as to whether you prefer a Graphical ( mobile/pad) interface (+/_ a hand controller ( ie Z21 with Roco hand held option))

or a small numeric screen with lots of buttons and arcane formulae ( Digitrax, Gaugemaster. NCE etc)

look here for further confusion.

https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?board=8.0

I am of course biased (Z21)

Please follow NewportN's advice, and go to shows and see/hear them in action.

details here: http://www.ukmodelshops.co.uk/events/exhibitions

TNGS (the N Gauge Show) near Warwick is a must if you can make it! 14/14 Sept.
http://www.ukmodelshops.co.uk/events/18100-MeridienneExhibitionsExhibition

Depending where you live, there are some DCC open days run by major dealers. Give us a hint? ( or add it to your profile) and we will see if the NGF can help.

nick R