I posted update/correction to my original reply. They did have design change to the internal electronics but nothing that changes how it operates. Word is this will be the last production run of remotes.
Buying batteries isn't really that clear cut. Often it is price that is the biggest indicator but it still isn't a guarantee. Generally you can say that battery cells made in China are more likely to be avoided but that isn't always for sure either. Then you run into sellers saying their cells are from non-Chinese source only to lie about it. Bottom line is you need to buy from a reputable source.
Quality of the cells and where the cells are made. Batteries that only last a year or less you find out you got poor quality battery (w/poor quality cells).
If using 7.2v battery packs in series, then you are down to 1733mah at 21.6v. (5200 div by 3) .
I recommend getting a single battery pack (suggest 22v) that is 5000mah or larger. If the batteries aren't lasting very long it could be related to smoke unit use, inexpensive batteries (quality) or due to age.
What is the voltage of the battery pack that you are using? Also, how long are they lasting? What engines are you running and how many on the battery and are you running smoke?
Set looks beautiful Ben! I really like the colors on the Accucraft passenger cars. That is the color I have more felt all daylight models should be painted with but the new MTH colors are much better than the original 2006 version of the engine. Layout looks beautiful as well
No changes in wireless range from remote to TIU (which is the only signal related impact there could be with the remote).
I'm with you I like both the app and the remote and like the remote for the same reasons.
I will respond to what I can answer:
The DCS Remote Commander (50-1033) will only trigger Whistle, Bell, Speed control etc on an engine equipped with MTH DCS Protosound 2 or 3. It will not do that on an engine that is DCC only or DC analog.
My installs of the PS3 in the Thomas engines do now retain the eye movements.
Based on what I originally understood the only change was the internal design of the thumb-wheel as previous version had part that was discontinued. However I have now heard that there were also other design changes in the electronics (likely to accommodate alternate chips that had been discontinued from the previous design).
The change in the overall product number is to know what version of parts a customer remote would have if they have a problem and need parts. Other than that, there is no reason to get a new one unless you want an extra/backup. I was told however this will be the last production run of DCS remotes.
For the pre-installed DCC, reading in the manual it does have whistle. https://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/dwg/dwgs/44958_TTTSoundModuleInstruction.pdf
Because this is DCC I unfortunately cant help with good ideas on triggering the whistle. I will forward to someone that knows DCC and try and get some input.
I can install DCS in them but adds to the overall price. For what you are wanting the most cost effective solution would be to buy it with DCC and be able to trigger the whistle.
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