The Lionel Base3 - My Thoughts

In this video I will review some of the basic features of the new ‪@LionelModelTrains‬ #base3 and give my thoughts on this new and innovate product for 3 rail hobbyists.

[@chrislambert5249]

Tell me if I am wrong... Wasn't the whole idea of trains was to feel as if you were the Engineer of a line of fright cars rounding the bend, entering a tunnel with your hand on the throttle. Conventional or hand held remote. Tablet or cellphone is just not the same. I guess that is just progress and we can't stop it. Great video. Thank you

[@conductorjohnmthtrains2239]

I agree. The fun of running trains is fading very quickly. I want to use my cab 2 and that’s it. Sick of all the fancy crap. Older generation doesn’t like it at all. And by the way what computer iPhone savvy kid can afford a $2300 steam engine anyway. Stop with the fancy technology.

[@brennenwilliams580]

I like using my old TMCC system and remote. Even with my legacy engines. Only regret is that I can’t access all the features.

[@jblackacre2325]

Exactly, and Thank You.

[@DucknCoverin]

⁠@@conductorjohnmthtrains2239Several thousand dollar legacy models aren’t the only product Lionel makes or has made. These are toys first and foremost. If they don’t appeal to kids then eventually no one is going to be around to buy those $2300 engines. Put yourself in a young persons shoes, or someone who is new to the hobby. You can get some decent older conventional models out here for not a lot of money, as well as the lionchief line. Most people already have tablets that they upgrade every few years. Not requiring some expensive dedicated control for them to be able to run everything opens the door to more people. They just buy the base 3 and they’re done. Their collection can grow with it.

[@fredashay]

I'd rather use a controller than my phone to control my trains. And I like the LCD buttons on the CAB 2 that can be configured for each locomotive. That's an awesome feature of the Cab-2. But I agree the Cab-2 looks clunky and outdated. I mainly model in HO and DCC, and use O only for special occasions like Christmas or just to run trains on my living room floor when the mood hits me. So I can live with it, and I pre-ordered the Base3.

[@therosejewelrailroad489]

Thanks for the positive spin. I have been surprised by all the negativity towards the base 3. Seems like the biggest negative is most people want to keep using there cab 2 remote. I’m with some of the other comments I read on this. I predict Lionel will probably be coming out with a remote of some kind to address this. I have to admit. I like the phone free to video my layout or just take a call. The 4 digit upgrade is huge. The idea of just putting in the cab number sounds great. Overall I like idea of having a base 3 on my layout. Thanks for covering this subject.

[@OgaugeTrainsplusslotCars]

Thanks for sharing this 🙌

[@thomasking2021]

Great video. Your video distilled many many questions into quick understanding. Initially, I had so many reservations about this new system. Your approach was logical and informative. Very well done.

[@appleorangeline]

You made a good point about people who are vision impaired or not able to work a smart device. I was legally blind in one eye and not far behind in the other during the past year. I had surgery in the fall and will have laser surgery this week so I can see again. I got to the point where I couldn't see my phone or read text on the computer. There are many seniors in this hobby who have (or will have) vision issues. My elderly parents couldn't operate their phones and tablets to save their lives. There will be some growing pains with Cab3 but in the long run it will make future technology easier and more economical to implement.

[@darkkennight]

I like the bass 3 I just don't want to lose the feel of the cab2 and I think Lionel should keep making the cab 2

[@randyjacobs9489]

There are Pros and Cons I guess. But for me, I have a preorder already. I like the idea of not having to do all the update functions. I'm 59 years old and yet I try to keep up with the times and the tech that comes with it. Yes the remotes are nice but it is what it is and this is the way they are going. And as the Conductor says "Well are ya comin".

[@matthewtaylor2020]

I am new to the O scale / Gauge world having purchased the Polar Express set for my wife in January 2021. That being said, I have been in Model Railroading since 1978 (with some breaks) modeling mostly HO with 10 years of N Scale. Most of my experience is with DCC which I love. Of course, I started with DC power packs and still have some for testing, etc. I am in the process of finising a room in the basement of our home we moved into in October 2020 for the the train room and thus, I do not currently have an operational layout except for 2 4x8 layouts for my son (one HO and the other O guage). Fast forward to today, I have 4 Legacy steam locos and 4 lionchief locos for my son's layout plus 3 lionchief locos for Christmas trains (2 which run on the O guage Christmas village layout that saw it's debut for Christmas 2021). I had purchased a brand new Legacy base 2 system for my future O scale layout that I have not even taken out the box. I did pre-order the Base 3 because of the built in wifi, the ability to control all Lionel systems, and the fact that it supports the cab1 and cab2 remotes. I hope to have my O scale layout operational by fall 2024 (still accuiring rolling stock, a few more locos on the desired list, track, structures, etc...plus the cost of finishing the train room is a bit steep as well.) O scale is not planned to be my primary model railroading scale (though it has been center stage for 1 year now and remains center stage) I do plan to construct a good sized HO layout in the same train room in the future after my son is older and I re-acquire the space. The planned O scale layout is around the walls, 60" from the floor leaving the center of the room for my son. I think the Base 3 is a good thing for the hobby and overall a step in the right direction. Though, I do prefer physical remotes compared to screens, I do like the option to do both. I do wish that O scale / O gauge was a bit more open source / standardized like the HO / N scale systems where control systems. throttles, software, etc are interchangable to some degree from various manufactures. While it is not truly open source, there is much more overlap of systems and components than in O scale. I would like to see Lionel or a 3rd party produce some kind of throttle that can take advantage of Base 3 while still being able to be nimble in that the software / firmware is easily upgradeable. I would think that an Android based hybrid throttle with some tactical physical controls could be built around an Android tablet that could offer the best of both worlds. Here is to hoping that my never used Cab2 remote lives a long life :)

[@FLRailroaddog]

Great video and you make great points 👍

[@escape150]

I really like your videos Chris, very informative. I agree with you about not liking to run my trains with a iPhone. I’d rather use my cab 2 and MTH DCS remote. I’ll probably get this eventually but I’m going to take a wait and see attitude. I’ll make sure all the glitches are gone first. I recently purchased another cab 2 as a spare. Thanks for the good video 👍🏻

[@coverdalemineoscalemodelrr7074]

I was around for the transition from conventional to remote and still use the ZW 😂

[@tomrogers5516]

Very thoughtful and upbeat commentary, Chris. Change is always inevitable and particularly in electronics now, so, as the old saying goes, 'resistance is futile!' Probably the most important feature of the Base 3 is that it offers the convenience of operating all of the various control technologies that Lionel has developed over the last decades, allowing the hobbiest to enjoy their entire roster without having to finance an expensive upgrade all the time.

[@rperras706]

Great video Chris, gave me a lot to think about!

[@kathleenpatterson3963]

First time I have heard of this - great review. Thanks

[@CalebsTrains]

We preordered ours. We like the cab 2 remote and are glad that it will still work with the base 3. My son is looking forward to using an iPad to operate the layout and I’ll be glad to not have all the Lionchief remotes sitting around. The built in Wi-Fi is also a welcomed feature.

[@kiscofallsrailroad]

Really great “conversation.” Lots of well thought out discussion and analysis.

[@ChrissTrainsandThings]

Thanks Mike!

[@driverman8615]

Your very knowledgeable about Lionel systems and are very well spoken. Thanks

[@bobconrad5632]

Great post and thanks for your opinion.

[@petebeggs757]

Good commentary. I ordered the base3. I worked 40 years in software development and change is inevitable. Although I like using a remote, I’ll adapt and will love it. It’s kinda like my smart TV being smarter than me and it took me ages just to find the basic TV when all I wanted was an ON button. The TV and I get along great now.

[@DavidRamirez-ww5kv]

Thanks for the info Chris. I too, was skeptical about this system but I plan to see it after it gets rolled out.

[@GoldStandardTrains]

No rush to get it for me. Not opposed to get it down the line. Tech changes and quickly, so it make sense, as you said, to have a more fluid control system in place that can update fast and in a user friendly way. I hate doing updates on my Cab-2, little cumbersome and I always forget exactly what to do so i have to relearn it all over again each time. I love the Cab-2 remote, and my 3.5 year old son it quite good with it too. He loves the whistle and bell toggle and it just isn't the same doing it on an app for either of us.

[@petergulotta8183]

Thanks for posting this video Chris. After a lot of thought I decided to pre order the base 3. Bottom line for me is I want to control all of my engines with one remote. I as many am not crazy about using my phone but progress is going to happen whether we like it or not. In the mean time we can still use our cab 2 remote. Looking forward to running my lionchief engines with the cab3.

[@cathrynm]

They could make a custom remote possible if they provide keyboard aliases for all the buttons in the Cab-3 app. I believe it's possible to connect a wired or bluetooth keyboard to an iPhone, and then make a device that works like a keyboard but looks like a remote. (I am an iOS/Android developer) Though our family's layout has no Lion Chief, so we don't need this for now. We'll stick with our Cab-1 long as that lasts.

[@harryhenninglll117]

Nice job on the video. We ordered one for our layout because of all the times we invite guests over to run. Some have legacy and others have various lionchief engines. But we always recommend guys to bring their own remote to run with us. This way if they want to run it leaves plenty of options open. After talking with Ryan and the guys at lionel about the system and we as dealers had our zoom meetings throughout the year with lionel making suggestions I think it's going to be a great system all round. The system gives more room for expansion in the future.... Thanks again for a great video

[@ChrissTrainsandThings]

Harry - Absolutely! That's the perfect reason to buy it. I'll get it eventually. I need to come visit soon!

[@harryhenninglll117]

Let us know when you decide to come visit. We can make arrangements to run at the layout at the house.

[@ChrissTrainsandThings]

@@harryhenninglll117 will do!

[@miguelangelgarrido7233]

Hola buen dia excelente video muy bueno abrazo grande

[@markslioneltrains]

I was lucky to have just got the CAB-2 so I will be waiting a bit. I will be changing it's resting spot to Red Velvet with Gold trim.! Like you after watching the Lionel video I'm very interested.!🤔

[@MESA-East-Model-RR]

Great perspective. The only thing constant in this world is change. I, for one, am very comfortable with the apps. I use MTHs app and it is very easy to add engines and control them. The trick is to get a tablet and decorate it to your trains. But I also understand the concerns and perspective of remote users.

[@greyfoxtrains3244]

This was a good video. Currently, as I am working on a around the walls layout just to get my trains moving, I have an MTH Explorer and I use Bluetooth for my Lionel. I also have the new MTH WTIU on order, but I have pretty my committed to Wi-Fi and the apps. To do this, I found a coworker getting rid of their older iPhone 8 and bought it for a reasonable price. It is now my main controller. I know this is and will continue to be an adjustment for many, but having the app isn’t bad, and once you get used to it, it works pretty well.

[@flynnlizzy5469]

I have Lionel and MTH stuff, the Legacy remote and the MTH Z-4000 w/ remote(s) but also bought the MTH 750 and wi/fi, app set up so I could try out using my phones using my phone. I thought I was going to love it but NOPE, not at all - for me me, besides unreliable, its just one more step away from the hobby I've loved since I was a kid back in the 50s (yes, I know, thank you). Levers, switches, buttons, magnets and light bulbs and relays, thats what made the hobby. A flat glass screen that you have to run your finger over ? I don't think so. Besides, I lost a few good pieces when my engines suddenly accelerated sending engines, a brand new Lionel camera caboose and shelf kept, pint 2671w PRR tender that I had just bought only 2 days prior and a bunch of box and passenger cars, most soring off the tracks and 4' down to form a pile of chipped, cracked and broken trains. I was not happy !! What really sucked is that I was just trying it out with no serious consideration to converting over to the app / phone set up. Bottom-line though, I never want to use a touch screen again, that much I'm sure of. And I'm REALLY not going to be happy if all the equipment I have is about to be made obsolete. Thats a game changer for me I'll put my money into gold clubs, at least I know what I'm gettin' into a head of time. OK, I'm ramblin' and sound too sour, sorry 'bout that. I guess I could just delete this but... .

[@flynnlizzy5469]

"Listen here sonny boy, when I was your age we had to stand there in ONE place dangumit, and control the levers to make the train go. We didn't have no picture phones runnin' our trains, no sir-ree bob - whoever heard of such a thing ? And why are people puttin' their dang FINGERS all over the glass of these dang fangled cameras, I mean phones, when we are livin' with the monkey pots, the Aids and the Covid ? Makes NO sense to me, in fact it sounds like a downright DUMB idea, doesn't it ? Everybody's dirty infected fingers rubbibn' all over everything everywhere, even at McDonalds ! I'm tellin ya sonny, Its gettin' crazy out ... wha ? What you say - you're from WHERE ? Oh, right, yes I was supposed to be back by 5 ... Well my daughter was supposed to pick me up, but .... wait, is that her over thee ? LISA !! LISA I'm over here !! Wait, hold on a minute here, you said 'daughter', right ?. Well sir, I'm here to tell ya, I don't HAVE a daughter... and even if I did, I wouldn't let her hang around with the likes of you, that much I can tell ya ... What ? You want me to what ? Oh there ya go, usin' that 'F' word... and in PUBLIC no less... when I was your age, if my father ever heard me say.... wait, get your hands OFF of me young man .... proper pronoun you say ? I'll give ya a proper pronoun alright, why I ought to ...."

[@daivdwalker2374]

I don't know but I think the base 3 is going 2 be great sides has built in wifi so that's cool and can run any engine that's sweet so yeah I'm excited and building a layout soon so yeah I will buy a new Base 3 system. Thanks for your video and thoughts on the base 3 I agree with you I think it's a good thing and will be better 4 the hobby once people try it

[@daniele.markle6428]

DCC tried this route years ago, wifi phone control was all the rage for a while. Then people tried it, hated it, now we have more remote options than ever, and even generic remotes that 'work' with the wifi system(s) but provide physical controls. I would expect a similar pattern here. Difference may be if in this scale the vast majority really do run in circles and not do operations where those tactile controls are so critical, but otherwise people will find physical solutions once they experience how awful losing the tactile controls are in practice. I wouldn't recommend stocking up on the 'old stuff' generally as the newer solutions are likely to have advantages and be more train like, for example ProtoThrottle.

[@andy41417]

Despite MW saying otherwise years ago my dealer says MTH will make a new remote.

[@SamFisher1957]

As someone thats looking to get back in to the hobby I find this frustrating and sad, when I switched from conventional control to legacy cab2 i was amazed with how much fun it was, base 3 with the app just looks boring since you lose the feed back of a remote; I get the feeling of conventional control. It is cool they have found a way to get the different systems to work together. The cab2 remote should stay in production as new in box cab2 remotes are selling on ebay for $1,400 to $1,800 so their is a demand.

[@mslickstrains]

I can see myself getting this in the future

[@DeadrailTrains]

You have interesting thoughts. One very significant thing I see is that you don't need this base3 or any base. All the engines in the new catalog can be controlled by the lionchief controller or app. With this technology, soon there will be no use for a base as more and more control features are added to lionchief. Asking people to buy this Base3 which is using an outdated transmit/receive technology is going to be tough. And yes, you can control phone apps with mechanical controllers. Imagine some day soon, running your trains with a RailDriver!

[@strasburgrailfan90]

I think the base 3 is nice, the more simplified feel makes it easier for new modelers like me. But I wish they hadn’t discontinued the cab 2.

[@mikeyanello3664]

Thanks Chris: I have both Lionel vision line, legacy, MTH and conventional engines. Thought of upgrading my conventional to TMCC. I like MTH but have a greater affinity for Lionel. I got my cab 2 about a year ago and I love it. But as time goes on I can see my self getting a cab 3 but will miss the tactile touch of the cab 2.

[@gregleuze6657]

I would like a dedicated remote and I am sure that in the future there will be an updated one. I did order the base 3 so I guess I am an early adopter with the hope that a nice remote will be developed in the future. I was able to pick up an expansion pack two weeks ago a little below retail so I can use it with the new base. I only have five modern engines so my stable is small.

[@EnzoGiovanaTrains]

Hi Chris! Great video! So I have a base2 + Wi-fi + IR sensor Track + Two Cab#2 and one Cab#1 and more two old iPhone 4s e 5S and I use more Cab#2. I had many issue with my two cab#2 main with touchscreen but I love cab#2.... I really thought about preordering for base3 for can use 4 digits to old locomotives, but you said that this won't possible, Therefore I think in the moment I won't more preordering maybe I will buy AppCab3 ! Thank you for your explanations!

[@ejeski1]

Great video. I'm still on the fence about an app on my phone or an iPad. I really prefer a remote...and I no longer have a Cab2.

[@visionarylocomotiveworks9703]

I watched this just as I came from a run at my club's train layout today, which just happened to be shorthanded on physical Lionel remotes. Fortunately, the LEGACY locomotives I'm running have the benefit of the Bluetooth control on board, so it didn't bother me. I've already added the LCS Wi-Fi on my small home layout and really enjoy using it, but I will say that both the iCab app and LC Bluetooth app have both been needing a massive upgrade, so this sounds like just that. I personally don't mind controlling my trains using a smart device, but I agree it would be beneficial to have a second smart device for just the train control. I definitely get the frustration and disappointment of the slow end of the CAB2. I love the CAB2 as well, but at least I bought mine before the discontinuation. Maybe Lionel will make a new CAB2L in the future? Who knows? Tech marches on, and as a person who sells cell phones and TV's in my part time job, you either keep up with change or get left behind.

[@jacobzink6472]

Also something to note is this is probably just the beginning for Lionel. The base 3 is their new intro to something new. I am in IT, sounds like lionel is rolling out something big and that beginning is this base 3.

[@NB-ski]

I predict there will be a cab3 remote in the future that is essentially a tablet/iPad in design with tactile buttons. Similar to your idea for existing devices but that would be hard with different manufacturers. It would even be a remote that Bluetooth linked to an existing device.

[@jblackacre2325]

Thanks for the comment. This would have been the right decision from the start I think.

[@michaelmejia3822]

Well this video is 1 year old and I am coming back into the Hobby. Most of what I have is Not TMCC, save for 1 newer Santa Fe Hudson from the War Horse Set. So I started looking into what my options are regarding unlocking all of the Features. I was disappointed that my options boiled down to luck in the Used Device Market. I found plenty of Cab-1 Remotes and Base Units, but no Cab-1L Base Units and only very expensive Cab-2 Remotes and Base Units. So I began investigating the Base-3 and watched your video. My feedback to Lionel, if they are seeking input, is to develop and release a “dumb remote” with all of the firmware riding in the Base-3 Unit. That way we can have a tactile remote, with perhaps an upgraded Color Display, with the Base-3 getting all of the upgrades via your home Wi-Fi. Just my thoughts. I would appreciate your comments Chris.

[@DucknCoverin]

Just now getting back into model railroading. Last I fooled with trains was N scale 25 years ago. I have to say the base 3 is a very appealing option. I have a few older Lionel’s and a newly acquired Lionchief model…and I’m already looking at some legacy engines. Looks like a very streamlined solution for being able to enjoy everything without the worries of some expensive proprietary device that’s quickly rendered obsolete. It’s not like folks don’t upgrade to a new tablet or smart phone every few years. I think a lot of the folks with feelings about it are just old and set in their ways….and people who paid $1000 for a glorified TI83 calculator.

[@Nick-md2ro]

As for getting the base 3 I’m going to wait decent while or until my cab2 base decides to take a dump to acquire it since I don’t have a need for it

[@vicdoesgaming7570]

4:16 Yeah and cab 2 remotes will go up 3x on ebay and sell for over 1k...thanks lionel

[@Dadified86]

It's been two years since you made this video so before I made mine, I had to check and get an idea for what we were thinking about all of this 700+ days ago. Thanks for the great review! There's always skeptics when something new comes out but both sides of the spectrum have had time to settle down and rethink things. Have your thoughts changed on any of this in the time it's been announced?

[@raymondlee3414]

Right now its just Vapor Ware anyway. The MTH TIU became Vapor Ware when Mike retired and spun of MTH.

[@whitmorestrains]

I’m an MTH guy looking to get into Lionel command control…so I preordered it already. If I found a cab2 remote, I would add it later. I don’t really want the Cab1L remote. Luckily, I have older IOS devices (iPhones, older IPads), so I can dedicate one to it so I don’t have to tie up my primary phone. I prefer to use a handheld remote though, but not having any Lionel base at all, and adding some other trains to my Lionel preorder, I needed something to control it. Hopefully it’s a good system, and like all technology, they can work the bugs out with releases and patches.

[@kevinluzier799]

it will take getting used to but i think it will be good

[@greenbeacon394]

The four digit number alone is awesome to me

[@dennisfly1]

cab 2 price going through the roof on e-bay 700-1500.$

[@johnturcsik2906]

I have the cab 1 remote . Every time when I buy a new set like legacy or Lionchief 2.0 I program it and buy put it under my notes folder on my phone

[@MrDanielmarlowe]

They should be designing a new designed easily upgradable cab2 style handset.. I guess the cab 1L it just to get them buy? I did order a base 3.. I have tons of cheap lioncheif from my son also so it’s worth that.

[@DennyDreadBassMan]

I'll pass on the Base3. I'm happy with my Cab2 and Base2. If I go to York in April, I'm sure I'll come across it.

[@jblackacre2325]

Beware, this comment is salty. I am a Chief Engineer of a software development team that builds apps for mobile devices (e.g., smartphones and tablets). I don't understand why Lionel would take out one of the most important UI/UX aspects of the hobby (i.e., a tactile experience) and go with only an app. I own trains going back to the 40's and have to wonder, how will my grand children run these when they dust off all my trains? Maybe this technology will be so old and ubiquitous that it won't be a problem, but it likely won't be as easy as cleaning off some copper contacts and adding some oil. I'd really expect to have a controller of some kind. For $500.00 I'd expect to get a lot more than a glorified wireless access point. For heavens sake, you can buy really powerful computer systems like the raspberry pi for much cheaper and do a lot more. I'm not sure that I buy the argument that it's overly expensive to take something like the cab2 and update it to modern standards. Besides that and writing of the UI/UX perspective, the app looks like something I would have designed back in the 90's. It doesn't look good. I'm not likely to buy it...which kind of stinks because I'd like to buy an overly expensive legacy train and then spend probably close to an additional grand just to operate it.... which sounds like dripping sarcasm...because it mostly is, but not entirely.

[@dave_7235]

I'll probably go for a Base-3. Similar reasons, I've got a broad range of tastes, so some of the "serious" (well, they are still toys, even if expensive ones! ;) ) Legacy engines that are more towards the scale type of offering, but I also have a fair number of traditional sets and/or engines that use the LionChief remotes. Having access to all of those using just my Legacy remote is probably worth playing around with a Base 3, IMO(at least for me). But I will continue to use my CAB-2 with it, I am not AT ALL in favor of the app control. Luckily I have had luck with my remote and a spare or 2 that have served me well (knock wood), so I should be OK for a while. I don't envy people trying to buy one now. This announcement certainly made that an expensive proposition over the last few weeks.

[@dennis2494]

maybe they will come up with a handheld unit that runs on Bluetooth because the Cab 2 units won't last forever and like you and I there are a lot of operators that like a dedicated handheld device with real buttons and knobs

[@andy41417]

TPC and TIU allow conventional trains to run with a remote.

[@chesterfield9514]

I'm an early adopter. One thing I'd like to mention is that by adding a 993, you do not get an additional 99 engines. The database in in the base. The 99 engines is stored in the base. The 993 has no ability to store engines. That's why when I take my Cab2 to another layout I get there engine list. Personally I would be getting a cheaper smaller tablet than use my phone. I applaud your commentary though. Well thought out and I agree with a lot of it. Lionel can no longer be in the hardware remote business because of how fast things change and how fast features come out.

[@ChrissTrainsandThings]

I’m on board with getting a small tablet too. Once I make the jump I’ll do the same.

[@philipcasa7379]

Conductor I heard Lionel came out with the base 3 because they couldn't get the chips they needed to continue making the remote is there any truth to that? Thanks for your help in this matter

[@mjmonjure]

Probably already mentioned 8 months ago, the base 3 will take up more real estate if you plan to keep using cab 3 since the cab 3 still needs to be charged using the original base. I pre ordered anyway.

[@ChrissTrainsandThings]

The charging of the base is a function that I don’t use (it stopped working years ago) so not an issue for me! But for others yes.

[@mjmonjure]

@@ChrissTrainsandThings you may or may not know, Lionel fixes the base stations for free, I have sent 2 in for repair, one as recent as 2 months ago. They like permanently extended the warranty, although this may change soon with the base 3 release.

[@James-Railyard]

I’m kind of new to O scale and even the price of a Cab2 is appalling. I’m used to a typical DCC system (I’m used to HO and mainly use HO) being about the price of a decent diesel engine. I’m only looking to get a small amount, being about 5, engines in O scale so I’m just going to get the old TMCC system just to run the engines. If the price is iffy to get one I’ll probably just get the Base3 when it releases.

[@vicdeandrea8112]

Couple things Chris I'm wondering how you update went on your staging area underneath your layout also I'm sure by now you heard about Eric and his train named after him and his layout absolutely amazing I know you and the guys will all be pre-ordering no matter what you're in the middle of ordering you have to get an Eric's there's no way around it support your pals I think it's cool looking for an update though on staging area

[@appleorangeline]

Good take on the Cab 3. I don't have Cab 1 or 2 so I will probably get the Cab 3 for my upcoming layout but I'm not going to pre order it. Any new engines I buy will have Bluetooth so I'll just use the app for that at least to get started. You touched on an interesting subject as far as developers or people developing aftermarket devices.

[@ZainesElectricTrainz]

With this new system, Lionel is staying current with the times and changing as conditions change. Im looking forward to it

[@BMMEC2009]

Actually Lionel told me (after it malfunctioned) that the remote has a forever warranty for the original owner. Just send it in they fix it and send it back. I'm wondering how compatible it will actually be with the MTH WIU?

[@joeyBirskovich]

and now it's 2024 they should be here around late august I'm ready got cab 1 and 2 remotes

[@dave_7235]

Forgot one thing in my previous comment. The one big thing (nothing to do with the tech) that they are doing that I think is a totally ridiculous cop out : not including a printed manual with the unit. I get it, it's digital, will evolve with updates, etc. (I didn't like it when MTH stopped putting regular manuals in engines several years ago either.) The Base 3 has apparently been in development for a while. All the main features as they will be released should be pretty firm in terms of what all the switches do, what the LED indicators mean, important hookup details for other components (SER2 seems to be the link to a lot of the past items), etc. When I'm learning the system, I'm going to want to have a printed paper in front of me while playing with it, I won't be sitting at a computer or using a phone/tablet. (and for those using the phone/tablet as CAB-3, will they just keep toggling between the apps? I'm sure that's very do-able, but it's not ideal in my mind? So maybe a tablet for your instructions, then the tablet or phone you are trying to run the system with....) So I guess I will be printing my own (assuming they don't do something totally ridiculous and make it some format that doesn't even print easily) because Lionel is too cheap to invest in printing the manual and including it in the box. I fully get that it would not be fully up to date for the life of the product, but it will likely be a good start point. While there may be some features that evolved into the CAB-2 and Legacy Base over the years (I guess Aux 3 and maybe things like tender and engine marker light control are examples), an original Legacy Manual is probably useful if someone picks it up and tries to learn about the system from scratch, even if the most recent updates are not reflected in it.

[@tomlake2732]

I have theBase3 on pre-order but I think Lionel ended the CAB-2 prematurely.

[@northpennvalleysteamrailroad]

In my opinion, even though the new cab base 3 is pretty cool, I still don’t think it beats the MTH DCS. It still won’t be able to run Proto 2 or 3 DCS engines. The DCS can run TMCC and Legacy.

[@whitmorestrains]

DCS can only run TMCC and Legacy if you already have the Lionel system. If you don’t, you need a base, and might as well be the Base3 to interface with DCS to use the DCS remote for Lionel trains. That’s my plan anyhow.

[@byates59]

Lionel was nice enough to give MTH the codes needed to run Lionel locomotives with DCS, it is a shame that Mike Wolf will not return the favor!

[@whitmorestrains]

@@byates59 That is true!We will see what MTH does in the future I guess. At least the new Base3 can still interface the serial connection of the DCS with the proper Lionel USB to serial interface so you have a remote for the Lionel system.

[@northpennvalleysteamrailroad]

@@whitmorestrains What I am saying is that MTH is smaller, but more on top

[@harryhenninglll117]

Not much has changed in the MTH system in the 15 years since they have been out. The only thing is the wifi that runs the same old system. Witch was a modified HO DCC system. That was designed in the late 90s after tmcc. Mike introduced it in 2002 when he got the patten for dcs for O Gauge. Tmcc was introduced in 1994. And legacy in 2004 with updates along the way. Unfortunately Mike didn't want to share their system with other companies like lionel did with tmcc to them and Atlas, K-Line and 3rd rail.

[@andy41417]

As train electronics fail and parts are not available for repair demand for this may soften.

[@williamkolina3988]

I will wait.i enjoy hand held remote.i am not the biggest fan of lion chief app.its cool but prefer running my J1a with hand held.voice command is wild.

[@nathandunn6974]

Hey Chris I have a question 🤔? I have a santa fe aba f7 set that will run conventional only but the western pacific f7 i have will it run on both conventional and tmcc?

[@Burmn]

Any word on being able to bridge to a TIU? If I can run MTH on top of the lionel stuff, I’m in.

[@BK-oo1bl]

I guess the question is reliability does it work good or have a lot of glitches

[@Dachamp2001]

Prefer the cab2 I'm not a app guy when I'm home from work your prone to find my phone laying around just about anywhere 😆. I am happy about the cab3 base cause i don't have to get the wifi module lol now. Im not a apple guy but i did get a iPad to operate the layout but not so much the trains. But I wish they would make a cab 3 remote to run the trains 😕.

[@dylanschultz9573]

Can you tell me the name of the song for the intro? Please

[@scottschiefer4173]

Do we know if there will be a charge for the app?

[@ChrissTrainsandThings]

They haven’t in the past.

[@garfieldisgod]

I am upset that old zw transformers (of which I have half a dozen) will not work with Base 3.....They work with cab1 and cab2....

[@JoseGuzman-pg4ui]

I was trying to find a legacy cab 2 controller for my ns es44ac and i was told that the legacy cab 2 was discontinued, and the thing is that I had been searching for one for over 2 years and NOW I CAN'T GET IT unless I pay over a $1000 for a used cab2 remote I'm just hopefull that i'll find a cab2 remote for a good price.

[@CamsLoopshelftrain]

At the end of your video, you say how nice it will be to only use one thing to control your trains, and you hold up the Cab2 remote. For me, that is the sticking point, anyone who doesnt already have a Base/Cab2 is stuck with some lame app that needs to be used on a phone or tablet. Not even in the same ballpark. So while it's nice that you got yours, not everyone has a Cab2 remote. I guess it's kind of hard for me to be positive about this Base3 if the ground level requirement for me is to have a remote. The one prerequisite is not there, so positive or negative has no bearing as I will be ignoring the Base3. When they have a Cab3 remote, maybe I will consider it.

[@kevinluzier799]

having to use an Apple phone or i-pad killed it for me was this a deal between Lionel and Apple?

[@Shipwright1918]

I operate conventionally, so it's a skosh irrevelant to me, but I will say a universal command base is long overdue from Lionel.

[@rachellovelett467]

Anyone notice Chris and some others’ who have been posting their thoughts on the new Cab3, are of the majority only interacting with those that are like minded with them? There are up- and down- sides to all tech moving forward but this wasn’t a necessity to bring into the fold as ‘the’ singular option. I’m sure a large majority of the train world would prefer the tactility of a physical remote and they should continue with it in their production practices.

[@ChrissTrainsandThings]

I think I mentioned that I much prefer the tactile feel of the remote. I think we will see one again down the road. I do wish Lionel had opted to develop a new remote, however, I can understand from a development standpoint why the route they are taking is easier for them. Not saying it’s ideal for customer though. Thanks for watching!

[@rachellovelett467]

@@ChrissTrainsandThings Hello Chris, glad to see your response! I agree, personally, that I would prefer the tactility. I believe Dave from Lionel stated on one of their videos/lives that they may at some point in the future "if they got bored"... so we may or may not see some type of remote again down the line. Like others have stated and I do agree, to a point, technology has to advance but apps are not the end all be all for tech either🤷‍♀️ Thanks!

[@shadowmanmc1130]

I’m a little confused if you’re using the legacy remote with your calling the cab to remote you can use four digit that you can program if it’s a legacy engine that is the reason they came out with the legacy remote calve one yeah you were in only could have a two digit address number were a legacy and Jen you can address it via toll cab number and Rodine, correct

[@Buhhhhhh-xi4ju]

If I buy his it will be my first piece of legacy equipment other than locomotives i already own and run conventionally. I'm not an expert so if someone could recommend me a good route to take that would be great. Anyone know how much the base 3 will cost? thanks

[@ChrissTrainsandThings]

The Base3 MSRP is $500. You can probably get it for $450 if you preorder it. You can add a Cab1L remote, find a used Cab2L remote, or use your phone to operate the engines. If you have legacy engines I highly recommend using some sort of command system to get the most out of them.

[@pjasyl]

Sticking with MTH'S DCS till it dies Have LIONEL'S legacy command system. NOT to my l TOO much electronic reliance on both systems leading to more headache when trouble pops up. Don't want to operate either command systems with my phone. In any case old school conventional transformer operation WILL NEVER ENTIRLEY DISAPEAR!! Grew up with conventional. WILL RETURN IF NEED BE!!!

[@mothman-jz8ug]

I'd like to see a company build decent trains which allow hands-on operation with no use of a phone, tablet, etc and which don't cost an arm and a leg. Today, trains simply cost far too much for average people to really get into them. This is especially true of kids, and that's who became most adult hobbyist of today. Now we don't have trains, we have another app for phone zombies. Don't we have enough phone zombies already??? Get an effin life, people!

[@conductorjohnmthtrains2239]

I’m 63 years old. I just want to run my legacy engines. I’ll go to my train store and have them upgrade my remote. Like maybe once every 10 years. Stop with all of the firm ware and computer stuff. Your going the wrong way in my opinion. I understand technology must progress. But they are just expensive toy trains. Most younger generation who are iPhone web fanatics can’t even afford a $2200 steam engine anyway. I say the new base 3 is a TOTAL JOKE!. Money money money money. The game never stops.

[@DucknCoverin]

Young people may not be able to afford a $2000 legacy engine, but they can afford lion chief and older used conventional Lionel….all of which they can run from the base 3. No one’s forcing you to stop using that overpriced remote. Newcomers need a better option though. Putting $1000+ barrier in their way to remotely control their trains with some outdated proprietary device that’s only available on the secondary market isn’t how this hobby thrives. Young people already have tablets and smartphones that they upgrade every 2 years or so.

[@YeOldeGeezer]

@@DucknCoverinnewcomers are getting less and less everyday! The hobby is dying!

[@dewittkandle5674]

I think this is the worst thing Lionel ever did it takes all the fun out of using the Legacy remote. I don't think they care what the consumer likes it's where they like who wants to run on a railroad off of a cell phone or an iPad. it's all about money.

[@robertcornelius3514]

I don't need George Soros overseeing my train hobby. I'm going back to the basics.

[@davidwgreen2403]

fix your volumne

[@blue2824]

That’s all fine and dandy for you guys with bottomless bank accounts but for the rest of us Lionel is ruining the hobby by making it far too expensive. Not to mention the fact that their prices have never reflected the made in China issue. 😡