Factory or 'Do-It-Yourself'

[Voice2]

I have only 4 locos (2 Atlas and 2 Kato because of the reputation each manufacturer has here).

Do you folks prefer to get factory installed decoders, or put your own choice of decoder in (and why)?

My 2 Atlas's have factory decoders in them, and I will be dropping my own into my Kato P42's (most likely Digitrax).

I've read here that the later Atlas's use Lenz decoders and they seem to be highly regarded here.

 

[rksstl]

With me it usually depends on the price of the loco, if its a good deal with the decoder I'll get it, if it doesn't have a factory decoder I'll install my own.

 

[caellis]

I usually buy DCC ready locos and install the decoders myself. Why? Saves money and I enjoy doing it. If the loco is DCC ready the hardest part of the install is removing the cab on the loco and then re-installing same.
If it is not DCC ready then some figuring out of the wiring is required... again I enjoy doing this.

Most decoders come with good install instructions.

I have many years of soldering skills and use an EDSYN soldering station if I must do soldering.

'DCC ready' generally means there is already a socket installed to plug in a decoder.

I think installing at least one decoder should be considered as it helps educate you in another area of this hobby.