I attended the Gaugemaster launch of their new Infinity and Sovereign model railway controllers
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- Опубліковано 5 сер 2024
- Join me as I attend the Gaugemaster product launch and explore their new Infinity (DC) and Sovereign (DCC) wireless handheld model railways controllers.
These controllers offer complete control of your layout in a contemporary way and deliver all the benefits of conventional control with a new, modern feel. The Infinity Analogue system revolutionizes analogue control and redefines what conventional analogue control should be in the 21st century.
The Sovereign Digital Model Railway Control Package is wireless and has Bluetooth connectivity up to 50m. It is battery-powered and expandable with multiple remotes.
Watch as I interview Gaugemaster staff and get an exclusive look at this exciting new product launch. Please keep in mind that the controllers being used are prototypes.
Big thanks to Mark and Pat for allowing me to film them.
Focus was an issue for some reason and I had to go to manual but you can still see all the main points.
www.gaugemasterretail.com/mod...
#Gaugemaster
#GaugemasterInfinity
#ModelTrainController
#SovereignDigitalController
#bluetoothHandHeld
00:00 Introduction
00:47 Interview with Mark about the analogue controller
09:11 Price discussions
10:29 output voltage discussion
11:29 Interview with Pat about the DCC controller
15:05 Summary
Please note, this is not a review. I attended a product launch and cannot offer any more information than is in the video. Please contact Gaugemaster directly with any questions you may have. I have no control over the price. At this stage I neither recommend or endorce the unit. Thanks.
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Please note, this is not a review. I attended a product launch and cannot offer any more information than is in the video. Please contact Gaugemaster directly with any questions you may have. I have no control over the price. At this stage I neither recommend or endorce the unit. Thanks.
Cool always wanted to go to Gauge master , bought many items in the past...reminds me of a Lenz controller but this one looks far better .
Agree, I'm going to wait for the production model before deciding
Very interesting video, thanks Mike 👍
Thanks Andrew
I like it very interesting, lets hope they pull this off 😃😃👍👍
Thanks, they have an announcement this August I believe
@@ModelRailwaysUnlimited this will be interesting 🤪🤪
Very interesting and thank you for the insight into developments and I am sure it will excite many. Just a thought though, bringing it down to a base modelling level, I have often wondered how much time is spent looking at a screen/LCD display and navigating menus and not at the train under control particularly when it is on the move through the model created by the user. Depends on how you want to use it I suppose. I have a bit of both DCC and analogue. Although prices of all aspects are an issue it is incredible what is available. Thanks again.
Thanks Rob
Interesting. It's nice to know there's DC kit out there when I get fed up with fiddly electronics. Thanks
Glad you enjoyed
Although I'm not a Dcc person, it's still very interesting, also I still need to get a gaugemaster control.
Cheers Jasper & Willow
The first system was analogue! Gaugemaster combi maybe?
It’s basically the same idea as the Hornby system, HM 6000 for Dc and HM7000 for DCC and you use an App on your mobile phone. The Hornby system is much less expensive, and carry’s many features.
Strange eh
Very interesting launch. I'm sure that the Dc unit will interest modelers on analogue. The price is rather heavy but at least it breaks away from tethered throttles. However at those prices I'm surprised they are still on mono screens.
Thanks Tony, certainly interesting
More electronic mumbo jumbo: Battery powered RC cab control = Instant relief from dodgy track electrics stuff under tables to bang your head on Make your own track easy. Wish the model Rail market could wake up to its huge possibilities and develop away form model aircraft hand me downs.
While I get what you are saying and this system is not for me, but I think we should still congratulate GM for at least catering for the analogue market.
DCC is the logical progression of what was known as cab control, without a bucket load of switches for each electrical section. DCC is great for a more flexible operation with multiple trains but as with all things there are downsides such as bonding of each section of track to the next to ensure no power drop off or signal degredation. The majority of new stock is DCC ready, just pop in a decoder and off you go but the fun starts with older stock, try converting a split chassis locomotive for example (not impossible but a bit of thought and time needed) and you'll understand where I'm coming from.
Thanks for your thoughts
An interesting video, I think the DCC system will be the more successful of the two. The DCC system is up against Hornby's hm6000, which does more for a lot less.
We'll have to see, I really like the near dcc facilities the Infinity gives dc users
That's very interesting that they're using a frequency in the thousands in DC instead of 100Hz. That's a bit of a game changer. I'm still using a UDS and TS and love em, but convenience of a cordless hand held would be handy.
Very much agree. I'm doing a lot of work on PWM just now with a view to bringing you a video about it. I've not been able so far to find a one size fits all regards frequency.
I look forward to that. I've had digitrax running on the up track and DC continued on the down to compare and honestly, I get the attraction for DCC but I have more fun with the GM DC controls. With or without simulation the DC GMs operate good mechs superbly and I never used functions or sound. Lights maybe, but it was a set and forget affair. This new DC set up should see the smaller 3 pole motors behave more realistically.
@@demondrillejunction5201 thanks, I've got two fully customisable PWM controllers (huge cost of a fiver each) and I really want to see if I can find the sweet spot for a range of motors
Hi Mike BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy ) is the future in control - not only locomotives it seems. But my first reaction on hearing that not defined price tag is: to expensive. Also considering that you still control one loco per track and these additional power packs per additional track seem to be more expensive than the price of a DCC decoder. DCC with BLE is far more flexible and also cheaper. Not to mention the Hornby HM7000 system. The only advantage I recognize is the speed control knob on a real throttle instead of a slide bar on a smartphone. But I've seen 'universal throttles' being developed. Tech is 'growing' so fast and today's new is already old tomorrow. Exiting times for model railroaders. But for the moment I stick with my trust worthy DCC - NCE Power Cab and Wifitracks module that allows me the use of the nice 'Engine Driver' app on a smart device and control of two ore more trains at the touch on the screen. Thanks for sharing and interesting to follow this (another) train control system. All the best, Filip
Thanks Filip, I am in full agreement with you. I'm also working on a new control system myself that will modernize what us analogue people do lol
I think that firms like Gaugemaster are in a much better position to make new types of controller than the major model manufacturers. With Hornby's Bluetooth DCC control, they wouldn't be human if they didn't add sound files for locomotive classes that they make (such as the ex-LSWR M7) before locomotive classes that their competitors make (such as the ex-LBSCR E4).
Interesting point
Manufacturers have to brace themselves now, for the price point of the Hornby HM7000 is a record holder - already. Starting in the hobby has never been so exiting. Frankly most 'traditional' DCC systems on the market are way overpriced and technology from the 90's. Bluetooth is a welcome addition but not at that price. Hornby is to applaud for the marketing of a 'democratic' system. The sound library expands already too. We only need a bit of patience to see more features coming...
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Hi Mike - Hope your both well now with no side effects.
I guess if your new to the hobby and you need to purchase a controller its another option and yes it looks quite good.
Personally I dont like operating signals or points on a controller, I still like levers for points and buttons or levers for signals.
Wish I had known you were going there, I would have popped along just to have a chinwag with your good self.
Hi Chris, oh yeah that would have been nice. Sadly side effects aplenty. Like you say another set of options
Nice review, i do have Gaugemaster controllers both the Model D and the Model DS.I think they are excellent tbh.I doubt i will ever change :)
Agreed, does your D get hot on the sides of the control knobs when working hard?
Very interesting (DCC unit). The one question - and I know that you don't know - is whether it needs dedicated decoders in the loco's, or if it will work with the existing ones, from various manufacturers - some sound, some not - because to replace all the chips in my fleet would cost a fortune!
I got the impression it works with all kinds
@@ModelRailwaysUnlimited Thanks. Waiting to see the finished product, as I'm using a rather long-in-the-tooth Hornby Elite (clop-box - if you've used one, you'll understand the nick-name - every button-press = "clop").
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The analog system is interesting. I am planning some analog operation on small portable layout, and this system sounds like the one I need : every control in the palm of my hand, nothing to plug to start (maybe the base units to go from a layout to another, I'm modelling N and OO/HO), and smooth operation. Important compared to a DCC system : you have to factor the fact that you DON'T need decoders in your locomotives with the analog system. You need controllers for tracks and accessories, and the price of them will make this system interesting or not. As you don't care to miniaturize static decoders (in theory !), you can have lower unit prices because you can use less miniaturized components, a thing not possible with a decoder you have to install into an OO/HO or N engine...
DCC version seems interesting too. We will see what it will be be when it will be sold.
Great reply thanks
What remains is that you can run only one locomotive per track in Analog as opposed with DCC giving more flexibility. And each supplementary track needs that specific power module that seems to be more expensive than a DCC decoder. Hmmm ??
agree
People seem to be OK with spending £200 + on locomotives but balk at spending out on a decent analogue controller which will make their locomotives better than the old Cliipper (or similar vintage) that they are using. The high frequency used with the Infinity will help to keep their track clean too.
The same people can also begrudge buying some decent wire/cable for their layout too.
Thanks for the interesting clip.
Thanks kindly and welcome to the channel
mmm, looks interesting but 3 hundred quid for a dc control is a bit of a non starter in my humble opinion, the dcc one is also interesting but if its anywhere near 300 quid then its probably doomed to fail, second hand dcc controllers go for about £200, ANE make a ddc/dc controller for entry level for about £120,ish (Ld101) very interesting video and very thought provoking thankyou.
Thanks Andy. Guess we will have to wait and see. I was confused to get several differing official answers about price.
Expensive, buuuut... It looks to me like you get your monies worth. Gaugemaster stuff is built from quality components and has that lifetime warranty.
To me this looks especially useful for people who have an elderly or kit built fleet. Some of the functionality of DCC systems without having to fit decoders and such. Plus that simulator function is always fun.
Yes I agree, let's hope it comes to market at a significantly reduced price
Is the DCC version Gaugemaster only, or is it a WiThrottle enabled throttle?
I don't know what you mean sorry?
@@ModelRailwaysUnlimited can the DCC wireless version connect to a WiThrottle server?
@@HumancityJunction oh right. I'd imagine but don't know that it was only compatible with the Infinity gear
A bit too complex for me if I'm honest. I built my own controller ok it's not in the same league as the Guagemaster one but is more straightforward to use. I'm not DCC either the cost of decoders puts me off.
Hi Peter, I know it looks complicated but really once it's set up it's easy. But I know what you mean
The DCC version in the same price range £300-£400 or even more expensive? The Prodigy Express wifi is already cheaper so Im guessing a price increase will be made to close the gap?
Possible I guess
How many accessories can the analogue unit control? How many accessories can the DCC unit control?
Hi Henry, the numbers are used to select them and in the video he scrolls through what looked a big list to me.
@@ModelRailwaysUnlimited Not quite what I meant. How does the analogue power unit (the fixed part) control the accessories?. Are the accessories each fed from a different output (if so, how many outputs are there?) or are the accessories controlled on a bus (like DCC) with each one needing its own "address decoder"? If I've got, say, 10 point motors, are there ten (or more) individual outputs on the power unit or do I also have to buy 10 "accessory decoders" and connect them to a common bus feed?
@@henrybest4057 hi Henry. I can't answer you with any certainty. I've looked up the decoders and it seems these are common to dcc. This system seems to offer analogue users dcc functionality. I think that's interesting. I don't do dcc so have no experience to draw on. Maybe address your question to GM there is a link in my video description
@@henrybest4057 Each accessory interface has 4 outputs, so at least 4 points per unit. I say at least as I suspect you could use one output to control 2 points if they need to operate together for instance a crossover.
OK I'm looking at this a year later, has this controller come out Yet?
August I think
@@ModelRailwaysUnlimited Thank you 😃😃
Can't really say either of these inspire me. The dc in particular is a price shocker compared to the hornby HM6000 . Ok so it relies on using your phone or tablet. But for 30 quid I have full remote system which is a perfect solution on my garden layout.
When you put it like that. Personally I really like system and can see huge potential for it. Have to see the final price I agree
@@ModelRailwaysUnlimited I think it depends a lot on the prices of the extensions. GBP 300-400 as announced, it is is the range of high-end DCC system like Lenz, and that might be justified if the function and the build quality is there. After that, if you need to add GBP 30 to control another piece of track, and GBP 10 to control a point or any accessory, that would be great. Especially when wireless systems are awfully expensive (the new Digitrax remote controller is near GBP 300 !).
How do you get on with the HM6000. I plan to build a garden layout and I would love a controller I can use in the garden, but all the information I have read gives bluetooth only a range of 30ft - which makes me somewhat suspicious of the claimed range of 50m for this new Gaugemaster product...
@@locohauledforum Depending on the type of chips, and the generation of technology, Bluetooth systems can work up to 100 meters. Bluetooth 5 is announced to be able to work from 40 to 400 meters.
@@OlivierGabin Thank you, that's a really useful reply 🙂
hi with the dc set you did not show how the points are controlled. You did mention some sort of control but you lost me with not explaining or the cost of any extra device to look after points and showing how. Like ddc I do not understand all the dcc items as most video's seem to think the names of all the diff boards and diff controls are easy and just a quick naming is all you get .My dc points are easy for me to wire using a momentary switch on the 2 inputs and a common return wire how will blue tooth control that would i need to buy blue tooth chips for the points or replace my points with blue tooth compatible points, having about 40 points what would that cost
Hi, the hand held unit is used to trigger the points via a cdu/decoder board. You press the accessory button then can select the points you want to change. Other than the cdu/decoder board you would not need anything else. I was not shown this board. I understand its a dcc unit.
sorry but what is a cdu /decoder if its dcc as you said then the gauge master dc controller is only fit for dcc .So you said that the points could be controlled on dc I'm totally confused and as I stated I'm not tec savvy . Your saying use a cdu only shows the point I was making ,that I as a modeler is expected to know what cdu is used for and what it controls and cost .I'm not trying to be awkward but tec term's and electronics is like a different language. I'm shore I'm not the only one that would benefit from a more basic explanation and insight into the mystic's of electronics
@@minos5548 The way I understand it is the Infinity control unit provides an accessory bus with two wire you run around your layout. For point control you need to attach a point accessory interface to this bus that will allow control of 4 points, so for 40 you need 10 such interfaces. You may be able to change more with one accessory interface if for instance you have a crossover where you always need 2 point to operate in tandem, these would take just one of the four outputs as they need to operate together. CDU stands for Capacitor Discharge Unit and uses capacitors (temporary batteries for simple terms) to hold a charge that is released in order to give a good bolt of energy for point motors to operate. I'm guessing each accessory interface will have its own CDU that will be charged buy the bus from the Infinity control unit and released when called to operate a set of points.
Hope this make it a little clearer to understand, I have looked at the Gaugemaster site for this information and have filled in some gaps with logical guess work. They are still vague on how it works fully as the operational documents don't seem ready yet.
Brilliant Robin, in that case very long winded compared to buzz
@@RobA500 thank you for your reply and the information that makes more sense to me
This only came out today 3/8/2024
Yes indeed, been some time eh!
How do gaugemaster get away with selling as many incomplete products as they do? Their mountable DC controllers dont come with power supplies leaving you top either pay through the nose for the gaugemaster versions (x4 if you have the quad), or risk blowing the thing up with a third party supply. Same with their shunting unit - no transformer. I'd love a business where i could sell non-working products and people would leave me nice reviews.
I think you might be missing a point there. If they sold the controller with a PSU as one product it would command a higher cost, doing it the way they do at least gives the customer the option of using another compatible PSU so reducing the cost. Example, I've been using GM model W controllers but use the cheaply available Hornby 16v AC PSUs that come in train sets. You could of course use any 16v AC supply with around 1.5 amps output with no issues. Likewise stable DC PSUs are available very cheaply these days.
Only 28 functions a missed opportunity here as new decoders are giving 32 functions 👎
I'll take your word for it. They did say if customs wanted more they'd add it
New Gaugemaster Infinity wireless controller at around £400? Not worth the money, looks more like a rip-off recipe to me. Many won't be able to afford the new wireless controller, if the asking price is that high. I'm sticking to analogue wired train set controllers, nothing will induce me to upgrade to a wireless Gaugemaster Infinity controller that costs £400. The team need to pull the price down, so potential customers can better afford it, otherwise what's the point in trying to sell it if no-one has the cash to pay for it? No disrespect to the Gaugemaster team, but if I'm honest about this, I think they're better off sticking to the older analogue Gaugemaster controller, which is a lot cheaper and more affordable price-wise.
Just for balance, I was told it would be priced in the 300 to 400 bracket. They hope to keep it near the bottom end. Still high price I agree, but for bigger analogue layouts with lots of complexity. This system is very attractive.
Why has the price got to come down?? I find most modellers are unrealistic about what new stuff costs due to perceived ideas about what things should cost> Profits have to be made to survive you know. Maybe we all need to save up a bit more for the new tech if we desire it!!
Has to be competitive, and sadly it's not as it stand
Looks a bit of step backwards and too late to the party to be honest.. screen should be way bigger and informative and keys should be capable of being dedicated and named to memory not scrolling through function numbers..
I recall them saying you could name the functions
I would not pay 400 pounds for an analogue controller it's not worth it .Are stick with a good old analogue controller that I know how to use
Thanks