My Best Model Train Controller | Gaugemaster Q | Unboxing & Review
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- Опубліковано 22 сер 2024
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![АЛАУДИНОВ у Скабеевой: эти их ВСУ нас НЕ ДОГОНЯТ 😁 [Пародия]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/an0anqU4WGQ/mqdefault.jpg)
This thing was designed to be part of the seventies because it is "a more elegant weapon (controller) from a more civilized age" - Obi-Wan Kenobi
Hello There
haha, love it! ;D
@@williambabcoke248 General Kenobi
@@cadetkohr5508 you are a bold one
Very interesting sam, I replaced my hm 2000 with a gaugemaster model d and the difference in running quality is very noticeable my locos are smoother 👍
Thanks Ciaran - yes I noticed a huge difference too!!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Great review Sam gauge aster controllers are definitely the best controllers out there on the market
Thanks David, I think that's probably true! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
You won't be disappointed, Sam. I bought the single-track unit ("MODEL 100M") twenty years ago and the dual-track unit ("MODEL D") ten years ago. On my current layout, they are nestled side-by-side in my control panel and function flawlessly. Very gentle rise from nil-volt helps prevent older locomotives 'launching' from stationary.
Thanks very much mate - yes I hear they're indestructible and last forever... so well worth every penny!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I quite like Gaugemaster's approach to making controllers. Rather than messing around with the looks of their controllers, they dedicate all of their effort and development into making sure the guts are as good as they can be, hence why they are still using such old boxes for their controllers.
You're absolutely right - I've scoffed at the looks - but they are largely irrelevant, what matters is 100% spot on, agreed!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Your test results were no surprise Sam, I have the same controller it's about 30 years old and I can control double headed Wren locos over 240 feet of track with no buss wires, there are numerous points and crossings and the locos perform faultlessly at the furthest point from the controller it is also in the garden, I won't praise them any more as they might put the price up, thank you again Sam for a very informative no holds barred video.
Thanks a lot Paul - yes I was very impressed - usually I'd expect sluggish performance from 3 Wrenns on the same line... not so here!!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
11:46 "course it can."
The standard tank: *nope!*
haha! xD
Hi Sam. Good review. Gaugemaster have made excellent controllers for years. I've used them and nothing else for over 20 years. You get a nice smooth dc output with no hint of low ac leakage (a common cause of motor noise/buzzing and overheating armatures). I'm my opinion, the best controllers you can buy. Stay safe and well. Cheers Chris.
Thanks a lot Chris, yeah they certainly have - I hear nothing but good about them!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Very nice! I upgraded to a Gaugemaster controller last year, so glad I did.
Thanks mate, I'm not surprised! ;D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I’ve got the two track one with inertia and it’s brilliant
Yeah I've heard how good that is - very cool stuff! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
All I want is a two track controller with inertia and braking but they seem to be hard to find.
Model DS
Hi Sam I recently got a gauge master single track controller and it’s fantastic
Gaugemaster Rocks for "0" gauge Sam Best Regards Andrew
Thanks Andrew, I agree! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
My ageing H&M Duette was showing its age so on your recommendation, earlier this year, I bought a Gaugemaster combi. It is brilliant.
Fantastic mate - glad to hear it served you well! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Just for your future reviews Sam for this season of your reviews, I would recommend either resorting to your old controller or retesting the performance factor of your locos so that locos reviewed after this don't gain a sudden, unfair advantage. I know the change is subtle, but it could be enough
Yeah you may be right, but there's no way I'm doing that mate! I've compared the performance, and it's basically identical!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Yes I’ve had a Gaugemaster for the last 25 years . Mine is a DS. Double track with simulator . Great Controller . Runs everything from my old Tri-ang through Wrenn , Mainline , Airfix , Bachmann , Dapol even Heljan which I think draw more current . No issues at all .
Sounds fantastic Russell, and very reassuring to know that it's still going strong today! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Bought one based on this review. So far very impressed, despite the fiddly small terminal connections.
I blew my bachmann E z connect controller a while back, and ended up finding an old 90s esque bachmann controller in a thrift shop. This old dusty controller is somehow amazing and works great with all my locos!
Uh oh sorry to hear that!! haha great to hear that was better! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Great introduction Sam, I can imagine you yelling "Bloody Select!" at the thing alot.
This looks to be a very good controller, just a shame I haven't the budget for it (yet!).
I have a Hornby 900 Power Controller, it's pretty old, but it's pretty beefy too, around 25VA! I rather like the 900, although I may bodge another controller onto the side of the 12v uncontrolled output with a variable resistor.
Great review as always, thoroughly brightened up my evening,
- George
Yeah, not a pleasant thing to operate, lol! Wow - 25VA?! That's insane isn't it?!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
They do a entry level single track controller for around £30-£40. From my experience they are fantastic controllers and do last a long time.
@@bentullett6068 Thanks, I didn't know they did single track only ones too, I'll have a look into that.
@Sam's Trains Yep, it's a powerful thing. I had a Tri-ang with a dodgy motor drawing around 1.5 amps, I didn't run it for long as not to burn it out, but the controller handled it fine.
@@highbrookendmodelrailway they also do DCC controllers and a lot of people use their controllers both analogue and digital at shows
@Harry Brenflarmarg I still operate on DC which is the reason why I use Gaugemaster controllers. The old one I have must be over 10 years old now and still works perfectly.
Gaugemaster is like the Noctua of the model train world, their controllers are so well made that they are desireable even with the brown aesthetics.
I got a few Model Rectifier Corporation (MRC for short) controllers that have adapter plugs where you can add a tethered throttle where you can have walk around control, you should take a look at a few
mrc unfortunately is US based
That sounds awesome - no doubt I could adapt one to work in the UK! ;D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I’m into old audio equipment, valve amps, classic microphones etc and I love the look of that controller. It looks like a premium, well engineered piece of gear from the early 70s (possibly made in Germany) and that’s not always a bad thing.
Gaugemaster rule, King of DC. I have one with the brake simulator, amazing. Great upload and congrats on getting new controller. All the best, Brian.
Yeah absolutely - I'd love to try the brake simulator too, sounds awesome! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I just purchased one. A 4 train controller. Coming from the UK
@@brianpearson8782 nice one, you will be very happy when you get it. Welcome to the club. :)
I saw one of these advertised on FB for £35 in my area, picked it up instantly. Everything works as it should. I haven't really put it through its paces, but glad to know it'll do it!
Great video as always :)
Wow, that's a total bargain - great to hear yours was good! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
It’s true it does look like something your parents would have used when the were kids but as long as it works as intended it makes no difference. You can never have to much power! 💪
Yeah exactly - the great performance easily outweighs the horrible looks! ;D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Hi Sam. I can see how it fits in with the way you run your layout. From previous videos, I know that you have a humongous collection of locos and wonder what proportion of them are analogue - how often do you run DCC locos?
Thanks Paul! I'd probably say 85% of mine are DC!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Great review, Sam! And convenient; I'd been saving up to buy the model Q, but since there aren't many reviews of it on UA-cam, I wasn't 100% convinced: now I know for sure!
Thanks mate - yeah sure, it's very very good indeed! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
By Sam’s review I got the 4 knob Gaugemaster controller. It was Gaugemaster or Morleys.
I switched from my Bachmann controller to a gaugemaster combi single track controller (my layout is 1 and a half loops so it's all I need)
Best decision I ever made, my only problem I've had with it was finding a screw driver think enough to screw into the terminals
Oh wow - no doubt that was a smart upgrade!! ;D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I tried the Hornby DCC controllers, Elite & Select and all that modern, digital faff. I put them (and the decoders) back on the shelf & went back to simple DC with a Gaugemaster DS Dual. I love the look, heft & build quality. The Hornby gear looks like it came out of a kids toy box. While the DCC guys are still pressing buttons, I'm running trains.
I feel that Gaugemaster is really in touch with their customer base. They don't feel the need to change the look of their controllers much, since their customers have come to expect a certain look and feel, which also happens to have that feel of 70's quality. I still have trustworthy appliances from the '70's that work as well today as when they were brand new, and have outlived and outperformed a lot of their contemporary products.
In today's market things are made to break, so we replace them and spend more money. But I think companies like Gaugemaster realise that spending that extra bit for quality control and good materials means a loyal and grateful customer base.
I remember a certain flight stick in the late 90's that Microsoft used to make (force-feedback sidewinder I believe), that was so sturdy and successful, they pulled it from production, because customers wouldn't buy newer products. I'll never buy a Microsoft flightstick again. But I'll be sure to look to Gaugemaster for products.
Yes they do seem to be Erick - that's very true! I must say their products are not made to break, which is a lovely breath of fresh air!
Merry Christmas - Sam :)
Hi Sam,
I have had one of these for some yeas and also the model with a test track on top.- great kit!! A tip for you, if you are stripping wire don't pull the cover right off. Use it to provide a finger grip to twist the wire and then pull the cover off. This is handy on fine wire especially. Keep up the good work!
Thanks a lot Mike! And that sounds like a very good tip - I'll have to give that a try! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
@@SamsTrains Stops the tiny bits of wire sticking into your fingers too.
I think it looks great. Nice and simple and built like a tank. Great stuff!
Thanks a lot mate, glad you think so too! :D
My nephew has the exact same controller for his layout which was handed down from his grandad. Marvellous piece of kit.
Ahh fantastic - it certainly is!! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Best controller I ever had, was a Märklin "Super" from 1950s. It was humming loudly, but it had substance in his metal body
(it stayed cold all day!) and you could regulate very very fine! Also it was able to cope with shortcuts, no problem.
Great to hear that Paul, that sounds very good and solid! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I used a Gaugemaster panel mounted single track with brake simulator for years - which I loved! My first videos on here were with that. Nice pieces of kit!
Ahh fantastic - glad to hear they served you well too! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
An absolute beast of a controller. The part where you pressed all the numbers on the controller had me in stitches! Amazing review sam!
Thanks a lot mate! haha glad you liked that! ;D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I really like the gaugemaster controllers and I have a single track walk about controller by gaugemaster and it’s great.-Ben
Ooh nice, I was looking at those too - they seem great! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Great review & Great controller.
I have a pair of the DS's - a Twin with 'simulator'. One is styled like your old 2 track 'D' and the other like your new 4 Track 'Q' and they are super.
.. I can also vouch for the warranty. The older one failed after years of service and as promised the unit was restored to life by Gaugemaster.
The shop is also worth a visit for anybody 'down south'.
Thanks a lot Kevin, that sounds fantastic! Great news about the warranty, fantastic stuff! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I bought the Q controller when I ran a 009 layout. It was excellent. I now run oo gauge, it is still brilliant. I may be odd, or just old, but I love the look of it as well. Very neat and compact but runs everything.
It sure is brilliant John - still no complaints with mine!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
To be honest, I like the "retro" look of it. And my best controller? Roco MultiMaus it is a great one, but it is for digital control. It has a ton of options, and when there is a short circuit, it automatically shuts power off from all the track and lets out a screeching sound to inform the owner of a problem.
haha lots of people do! And that sounds awesome, will have to look that up! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Great review and choice. I have been using the twin track model since the early 1990s without any problems.
Thanks a lot Paul, glad to hear that - they're reliable as anything!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Awesome controller there from Gaugemaster, I'm now planning to get one myself from them
Fantastic Cameron, hope you enjoy it! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
These are great controllers. I now have two Gaugemaster controllers one is my old single track version and the other one is a new twin track controller similar to your four track one to power a small line to a goods yard and the engine shed siding area. My old one has never had a issue and is the reason why I purchased another Gaugemaster controller.
Thanks Ben, I agree they are - glad to hear you've always done well with yours! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Nice review Sam, I myself have a gaugemaster Q4 would not be without it. British built also have another Gaugemaster with brake simulators but use that one for my accessories. Would like to have seen you operate your turntable. Keep up the good work Jeff
Hi Sam from Down Under, Newcastle, Australia
Great review of the Gaugemaster controller, I have a three track controller with inertia control for track one and it's been a brilliant controller and wouldn't be without it.
All the best and I hope you have many happy train hours with your new controller.
Cheers Darren
Thanks very much Darren - that sounds fantastic, I've heard good things about those inertia controllers! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I have a Sebo vacuum cleaner (bear with me), that is also aesthetically challenged, being purely functional with no attempt to make it look like a space ship as seems to be the trend these days. It is completely bulletproof, probably because they have used a similar design philosophy to Gaugemaster of eschewing fashion in favour of solidity. Having been around in the 1970s though, I think the Gaugemaster looks more 1950s than 1970s.
haha thanks Roger - can't argue with that - and they are very well built!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I too have a Sebo felix built like a tank a TIGER tank! Thanks Sam sorry to go off subject.
Pretty cool controller Sam! I enjoy that you highlight mainly DC train running on the channel. This controller reminds me of the older hobby equipment for radio controlled models. I owned a second hand 72 MHz transmitter built from a kit! As for the aesthetics of the unit, it doesn't look like a toy but a serious piece of electronic equipment.
Thank you! I think there's a lot to be said for DC - thanks for sharing! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
They are the best controllers by far and with a lifetime guarantee, you can not go wrong. I intend to buy them for my layout as and when. But, I have spied some secondhand wood laying around after they had finished using it for a project. Martin. Thailand.
Thanks Martin, I think so too - very impressive! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
great review and also on the tripple header great demonstration when they start off as one loco is clearly being dragged
Thanks Russell, yes I only noticed that during the edit - it kicked in after a few seconds though!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Love my Gaugemasters. I really like the styling, but I like valves sticking out of my amplifiers too. Besides you say it's 1970's, then it should go well with a 1970's themed railway too.
I love how it's British made. I remember buying old Horny coaches that were made in the UK. Seeing labels that say Made in USA or Made in UK are always good things to see.
Yeah me too - there's definitely real quality there!!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
The intro should be in highlights of the year excellent review and good price of the controller when are you doing your next series of streams 🙂🙂 brilliant at always
haha thank you!! Next streams are in 2 weeks time!! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Wouldn't use another make of controller anymore Gauge Master are the best no if's or but's its Gauge Master or go home.
Can't blame you - they are really good!! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Triple big fours running specials excursion. Perfect
Excellent choice, you can't go wrong with a Gaugemaster for analogue control. I have a two track model D in that shape for the DC section of my layout. You will notice the LED will turn red and stop the train if it detects a short, I do like the colour change feature depending on the power output. They are nice and sturdy as well, a good solid metal construction.
Thanks Rob - yeah absolutely! Ahh I've not tried shorting mine yet... guess I'm scared to! ;D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Just purchased a pair for O gauge!!!
Nice test.
Just watched the Hornby one from a year ago.
David and Lily Reading.
That's awesome - hope they serve you well! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Gaugemaster controlers are like SR Q1 class 0-6-0, Land Rovers, Harrier jets or JCB engines : aesthetically close to zero, but rugged and ever ready to do the job, and the best ones to do it you can find anywhere. That's typically british, you can play "Land of Hope and Glory" as background music to present it. As a continental nitpicker, I've just get one negative point : the plug and its cable are not mounted on a C15/16 connector that would allow its replacement by a CEE cord and plug with a 3-poles CEE 7-7 plug... As is, just requires an adapter, not a great deal anyway, 7,50 € on Amazon for a good one.
I have the other end of the range with the combi, bought for the same reasons as you (coreless motors), and it is a very good deal, especially for small layouts (GBP 34, also available with a Schuko plug for Europe). Sincerely, I can recommend Gaugemaster like you, best choice for analog controlers.
haha absolutely right - doesn't detract from the performance, that's for sure! ;D
Thanks a lot for the info, appreciate it,
Cheers,
Sam :)
I'm rather enthusiastic about the colour scheme. It reminds me of my grandfather's numerous controllers that he bought between 1958 and 1973. The only thing missing is a burgundy and gold braided cotton cover on the power cable.
Ahh fantastic - definitely has the colour scheme of that era, haha! Yeah you're right there!!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
What controller do I use? Lionel type RW, 110 watt transformer built in 1949. Still works like a charm with only a new cord and a new roller, all other parts original. Has posts on the back for wiring 0-15 volts variable, 5-19 variable, 19 volts constant, and 9 volts constant. Very good transformer for old American O scale trains.
Wow! A long ago as that?! I bet that was built properly!!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Hello! I have the controller G M , very good run, very realystic for DC locomotives on my layout. Greetings from France.
0:24 i don’t blame you for not wanting to touch this one!
THEY LOOK SO GOOD I LOVE THIS ONE!! im starting my first build and i went nuts and spent a few thousand on my layout (its gonna be big) im gonna pick this thing up if i can find a us version.
They are worth every penny. Never looked back since the purchase of the model Q! I think they come with a lifetime guarantee for a reason...... They are quality 👍
I agree - not cheap, but absolutely spot on the money! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
sam : this is my best contorller!
contorller : *breaks*
sam : ......
haha!! I can't see this one breaking! ;D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Yeet
@@SamsTrains Even if it did break it has a lifetime guarantee. A proper guarantee too, not the 'limited lifetime warranty' Bachmann offers. :-p
They do give good control (I have the DS) but the wire terminals are very small and quite hard to use. If you are running a thick bus wire with droppers, you won't fit it into the terminals.
You had me confused until this video came along, Mr. I-love-pretending-to-be-a-ghost. You've done the right thing. Your new Gaugemaster Q controller is the best-looking controller you've ever bought. But don't get rid of the HM2000 you're using for your 0 gauge models. As for me, I'm sticking to my two train set analogue controllers, they work just as well for me. How did you make yourself become a ghost in Forbidden Ghost Train Stories? I'm a lady so it's a lady's curiosity. I'd like to know. If you can tell me, I'll be happy.
Thanks Kelly - I agree, it's a very sturdy little uncle isn't it? No I won't get rid of the HM2000 - I'm using it on my bench now! I used an axe to end it all, and then I became a ghost! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
For N scale I use a KATO power pack, for HOi use my dad's old marklin controller and O is the lionel 1033 all of them work great hope you have fun with your gaugemaster
Sounds great David, I'll have to look into those! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Hey Sam, that’s a nice controller, looks pretty hefty though! Might not be so fun if you don’t have a permanent layout set up!
My track is all Kato Unitrack, so I use Kato’s Standard S controller, which I’ve found to be a great little unit.
Unitrack has integrated roadbed, and points come from the factory with motors fitted. Wiring is simple, all cables are connected with clips, and point controllers just snap onto the side of the controllers.
I’ve found if you don’t have a permanent setup, that clip together wiring is far more reliable than screw terminals! I will probably stay with it if and when I start a permanent layout, as it’s easy to rig up wiring looms and keep it all relatively near and tidy.... In theory....
I've always liked the plug in, clip on, clip in, integrated trackbed track systems ever since they came out 100 years ago, revisited by triang for a bit, very successfully developed by Marklin (until fashion decreed realistic sleepers) and really rather perfected by Kato. still waiting for more from the Tillig/ Kato partnership though!
@@muir8009 I’m modeling modern Japan, so Kato Unitrack is perfect for me, especially their modern stuff with concrete sleepers, slab track & super-elevated curves!
haha yeah - I guess this isn't much of a portable controller! Thanks for sharing! :D
Cheers,
Sam :)
@@SamsTrains Yeah, it looks about as portable as a Humvee without wheels..... 🤣🤣
@@muir8009 I changed to Unitrack after trying “traditional” Peco & Atlas track in American N scale.... It was quite a nightmare to try fixing it to the baseboard and maintain geometry.... Now that I’m doing stuff like Japanese Bullet Trains, the rigid geometry of roadbed style track is great! And Unitrack’s detail and decoration is some of the best I’ve seen!
And if you plan on going narrow gauge the fourth controller will come in handy provided the wire and power track meet.
Ooh good idea actually - though I've wired no4 to the turntable motor! ;D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Gotta love that one ill be getting a double for my exhibition layout
Awesome Lettuce, hope you like it! :D
Cheers,
Sam :)
I have had the same type of 4 track Gaugemaster controller for about 3 years on an OO layout and it has been faultless.
I wired my layout using thicker wire in that I already had a couple of rolls of "ordinary" domestic 3 core that I stripped out for the individual colours. This made it awkward getting the wires into the small connectors. I had to tin the ends of the wires and trim down for them to fit, but that's my fault for being lazy and mean instead of buying the correct type of cable.
I have successfully run double headers with no problems, most regularly a pair of class 20 diesels , which is how they most often ran in the "real" world.
It is quite heavy which I like because it makes it more stable though the transformer hum can be a bit intrusive.
My only real criticism of the controller is that I think that it would be better with bigger control knobs probably about twice the current diameter, the connectors on the back would also benefit from being about 1 cm higher up and perhaps an illuminated mains on/off switch.
Other than that while a bit expensive it's a very good piece of kit.
I got mine from Hatton's because they were actually cheaper than buying direct from Gaugemaster. This is something that I have found with most Gaugemaster products. I can drive to their shop in about an hour, just shy of 60 miles away from West London and when I do go it's such a good shop that I usually spend over an hour there however everyone else seems to sell their products cheaper I've bought Hornby and Pico stuff from the Gaugemaster shop and it's usually at more or less the same price as elsewhere but I usually buy Gaugemaster bits from Rails of Sheffield or Hatton's as even with postage they're cheaper.
Thanks a lot for sharing that Mike, glad to hear it's been faultless! Larger control knobs might be nice actually, good thought! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I like the 70's look of it, If you run an "old school" set up but wanted a modern controller this would fit right in to the layout. I am currently using an old H&M Duette controller which I bought a month ago and is only the fourth controller I have used since getting into the hobby early this year and I have to say so far, it's my favuorite followed by my old triang unit.
Yeah that's very true actually! Great to hear that - the old ones are often the best! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Nice vid ! I've used Gaugemaster controllers for years, built like a tank and ultra reliable. Control is very smooth and quiet. Basic 'Combi' unit is great for portable layouts, I've not owned the 4 way version, but my 2 way version has been absolutely bullet proof and I can highly recommend them.
Thanks mate, that's what I found too! Very good quality indeed!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Maybe coreless motors seem to be more used is because of size limitations, they do seem to be smaller than your typical 5 pole motor
I don't think that can be it - the Hatton's Barclay and Hornby Stephenson's rocket both had 5 pole motors... there's not much that's smaller than those, so space is no excuse! xD
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Try converting an atari 2600 to track
haha! That'd be the day! ;D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Do a 4 engine header (quadruple header) of 4 of your most strongest engines with the longest line of coaches, and after that, trucks.
have bought a model Q on the strength of ur review thankyou
Honestly I like the look, it's got a 70s look as you said and it's got a bit of charm!
haha yeah, I've seen a lot of comments saying that! ;D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Wow, I'm glad you got this controller, and I may consider getting the single or double version. Thanks Sam!
Thank you! Yeah they're all good - particularly that double one! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
It is interesting that you have a model of the pre-upgraded "Windsor Castle", as it's got it's single chimney. Now, I was born in Old Windsor, 24 days before the heir apparent in 1948. Ironic 24, as that 1924, was the year that the brand spanking new, "Windsor Castle" locomotive, awaited their Royal Highnesses King George V and Queen Mary, actually got to drive Windsor Castle, in the GWR's Swindon Works Yard. After it gained commemorative plates, on each cab side.
Now, fast forward to 1952, King George V's son, King George VI died at Sandringham, his body was hauled down to Westminster Abbey on the Royal Train, hauled by an Great Eastern steamer. The King laid in State at Westminster, for the set time. It was demanded by the Queen Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, that the King had to be hauled from Paddington, to Windsor, hauled by the said, "Windsor Castle". Uh Oh! The trouble was, "Windsor Castle" was in the workshops at GWR's Swindon Workshops, in bits, as it was getting it's major refit, the one that was to give "Him, His" new Double Chimney.
Rather than eat humble pie, she always wore the trousers (shame), that it was "Windsor Castle", or she would sell the real *Windsor Castle* to the Americans. They then did something I've always classed as despicable! At this time, there was a beautiful shiny refurbished Castle Class loco, sitting in the Swindon Works Yard. This loco, "Bristol Castle", so they did a total smokescreen and mirror job, probably thought up by some dodgy freemason, *Change All The Plates Over*, which they did. The Royal Train, consisting of smart GNER Teak stock, the King in a Full Body Baggage Car, hauled by the fake Windsor Castle, really "Bristol Castle", steaming out of Paddington (I got the picture photograph in a book.
Morel of this true story, by the side of my Windsor Castle structure, that is my block of flats, housing this PC, is a display case, inside is a Hornby 00 model in WR BR Green, a doubled chimneyed Castle Class Steam Locomotive, His name, "Bristol Castle Number 7013". As this does have "Bristol Castle" on "His" Nameboards, with the Copper Topped Castle Double Chimney, I have the true "Windsor Castle". Both "Bristol Castle" and "Windsor Castle", went to their gaves, wearing each others Names, Numbers and Work-plates! So I will always have the true "Windsor Castle" by the side of this PC.
Very interesting - thanks a lot for sharing this! I hadn't heard about this before, duly noted!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
For your next vid, you should review a network southeast loco/mu! Great video once again, Amtrak trains56 (this is Amtrak’s main channel)!
Hi
Great idea, thanks for that one!! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Sam holds up closed box of gaugemaster... ;-).."this is the best controler i've ever had"....haha...;-)...then unboxes tests and confirms initiall statement....
yes...gaugemaster make good oldfashioned products..there's nothing like "quality"..we all love them... ;-D...for the rest of our and their lives......
and you're right....it deffo is a seventies design icon....long may it live....;-)...theres nothing like brown and beige........;-)
Love it
I have the 2 track one you have moved up to your 0 gauge layout (be interesting to see how that handles your 0 gauge locomotives)
Might be time to upgrade to this as I have more running lines now
Thanks a lot Nicky, glad you got one too! It's been handling O gauge just fine! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I like MRC'S Tech 3 Power Command 9500. It is nice because it shows voltage and current draw. Unfortunately 1) they don't make it anymore, 2) it only controls one track.
Ahh I'd love one like that actually - thanks for sharing! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Sam, did you notice in the video that when you started the triple header of the wrenn locos that the large LMS tank's driving wheels were not turning? Once it went around the curve they were.
Very interesting. Now try a triple header on all 3 tracks.
I didn't notice that until I edited the video - but it kicked in after a while - not the controller's fault of course! ;D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
You’re right about the 1970’s looks !
The shape and colour clearly scream out 1970’s and flared trousers etc
When I in started model railways
The railway modeller magazine ( the only one dedicated to this hobby back then)had pages and pages at the back of similar controllers made by loads of different manufacturers
They all had similar 70’s looks because they were made pretty much the same way
Fast forward to 2020
Gaugemaster has proven they make a brilliant product but oh my do they look old fashioned
Just to change the colour or angle the plate with the knobs on to say 60 degrees or maybe both could even attract more buyers especially younger generation
What do you think?😊
haha thanks Jon, without a doubt! Thanks very much for sharing - yeah I guess that's right, the product is no worse for its outdated looks! ;D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Hey Sam, thanks for what you do. I'm an 84 YO yank that go his first train, an American Flyer 027 freight back in 1949. Have dabbled with HO off and on. I am now thinking of doing a little something with OO. If I do, It'll be, in a large part, due to your work. Really great stuff, can't commend you enough. I want to start with an attractive/interesting, small but strong, steam engine. And, I'm willing to pay for quality. Does anything jump to mind? I hope you take a break once in a while - Don't burn yourself out. Best regards, Ron K.
No problem at all mate - that's really lovely to hear, thanks so much! Sure - how about Hornby's J50? They're incredibly beefy, and reduced in price greatly at the moment at Hatton's!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Hi Sam, great video and interesting subject, there are two transformers in that unit! GM are really very good, 100Hz output, so camera speed 50 or 100 should stop the flicker. GM are also backed up by very friendly helpful customer service and that warranty really is as good as it reads!
Thanks a lot Mike - ahh that'd explain the excess humming then!! Yeah I shoot at 1/100th shutter speed anyway, but at 60fps, so I don't think there's any way to get rid of the flicker :(
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
@@SamsTrains Ah, that's why I switched to 50fps
Hi Sam great video I will be sure to put that controller onto my list of items for my layout. Stay safe!
Thanks very much Sam - very glad to hear it! You too mate! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I have Gauagemaster’s Prodigy DCC controller, I can’t fault it since I upgraded from the Hornby Select, much cleaner and more user friendly. Had a more basic just DC one as well a couple of years ago before I went DCC and I couldn’t fault it either
Great to hear that Andy - I've only ever heard great things about their DCC gear too! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
The Gaugemaster Prodigy is a rebadged American MRC Prodigy. I looked at those when choosing my DCC system. The low power output and clunky interface put me off. I went for the Fleischmann/Roco Z21 where it's much easier to programme locos etc. using a tablet.
I’m glad it’s not only my 2-channel Model D that hums.
haha yeah - it's fine - just a sign of a substantial transformer! ;D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
@@SamsTrains The vibrating and writhing plates therein. Thankfully Guagemaster don’t make audio equipment. You need another review category Sam, which models can drown out the controller hum - my DJM GWR 1361 certainly does!
I say old chap that gauge master will truly give you the best possible odds of making it through a stranious running session!
haha, very reassuring isn't it?! ;D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I have the D type twin track serving me well now for 15 years ,and it’s still looks mint 😂
Fantastic! Yes they're very much built to last!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I know I keep going on about my Dapol Black Label A4 Mallard, but in DC mode your new Gaugemaster controller would not be man enough to fully power all its functions. As I don't have a DCC set-up, the A4 with smoke turned on consumes 1.1A if I recall. Had to contact Dapol to ask why the smoke wouldn't work. They suggested the Gaugemaster D.0 controller which is really designed for 0-gauge locos. The D.0 kicks out about 2.5A, costs a lot and weighs a ton (big transformer). Owning a Black Label with DC is not cheap, so be warned.
Thanks for the comment Andrew, wow it consumes that much?!? How come?!? :O
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Hi Sam .I have the exact same controller and the same setup as you have yours. It has never let me down once you can even have all three tracks running at the same time and use the turn table with no lose of pawer you will/should have now regrets
Great to hear that Graham, and not surprised it hasn't let you down! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
A really useful video, thanks. I run Dublo, so great to see the Wrenns running on this controller, as they are essentially the same thing. I have a GM 100M at present, but have been recommended TRAX feedback controllers. I wonder if you've ever tested those?
Thanks a lot Michael, yes the Wrenns work just fine on this, plenty of power to go around! No I never have, they sound intriguing though!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Gaugemaster and Hammant & Morgan controllers will still work 100 years after your dead. The very definition of "old but gold"
haha I bet that's true actually! ;D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Been using the dual version for a while, ergonomics aren’t an issue for me and what works is best so if it reminds you of the 70’s so be it! The transformer I used in the 70’s had a humming like Chernobyl ⚡️😱 but I lived to tell the tale..
Glad to hear that Simon - yeah the ergonomics are nothing compared with the performance!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Great review Sam, I use these Gaugemaster controls and they are superb. Good to have them recommended by your good self. ..Bob
Thanks so much Bob - glad to hear that, yes the best I've ever used!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I love the look, but I am from the ‘70’s 😅 and they are quality, just got the two track 👍🚂👏
Hello Sam. It's nice to know GREAT MINDS THINK ALIKE. My father and myself upgraded ro GAUGE MASTER some years ago ,and without doubt took running and operating our layout into the next universe. The best controller's on the market. Second to none. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Brilliant video. Thank you Sam.
haha thanks Mark! Great to hear they're still going strong - I do believe they're the best on the market too!
Merry Christmas,
Sam :)