Standard Train control instead of DCC

I have decided that my ho train layout will be a Standard Control or DC layout instead of a DCC digital command and control layout. In other words I am going to run trains like we all have forever, like you did at Christmas time around the tree. Track, Train, Transformer (power pack).  DCC requires a more expensive locomotive because of the extra electronics needed to be digitally controlled. However, you can buy an expensive add on component to include all sorts of sounds that would be appropriate for the loco. You would also have to toss out all of your old, in need of attention, locomotives because the work to get them running perfectly then installing a retokit for all the new age electronics is too much work. Only the older high end locos would be worth it.

I will still be able to run all of my locomotives. I will buy new locomotives that are DCC ready and add the sound module only, MRC  makes one that works with dc and is a direct plug in, and either buy the optional wireless transmitter or buy an MRC "black box"

and wire that to the layout so I can access the sound board and play the tunes. All while still running a standard DC layout.

I like pushing the lever on the power pack to get more speed rather then turning a little dial or punching in some number on a keypad...that's not running trains. I know how to wire a double pole double throw switch, I can wire blocks into the layout (which most dcc guys put on their layout anyway helps with trouble shooting a short).  I love the sound effects the DCC world brings but I think I have unlocked a way to get the sounds while running a standard DC layout (at least with newer dcc ready locomotives). For me it will be a standard dc controlled ho train layout or bust!  That may make me old news as far as ho train layouts these days but sometimes there really is something to be said about tradition.

.PS try to find out details and compare the top 3 or 4 DCC systems in case you were thinking about going that way?...not easy everyone sells "their" brand of unit and "theirs" is the best. You have to go on reading for hours on blogs and forums to find out real details and that is super subjective to the writer's point of view.