MRC
ActiveOverview
Model Rectifier Corporation (MRC) is a manufacturer of model railroad electronics, power supplies, and control systems for hobbyists. It holds a position in the model train market focused on electrical components rather than locomotives or rolling stock. The brand is notable for its long-standing presence since 1947 and distribution through hobby retailers.
History
Model Rectifier Corporation was founded in 1947 in the United States by Louis I. Newman. It initially produced rectifiers for model trains to convert AC to DC power. Key milestones include expansion into speed controls, sound systems, and digital command control (DCC) systems in later decades.
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Tech 4 DCC System (Digital Command Control) | Entry-level wireless DCC for model railroads | $150 - $300 |
| Pro PowerPak (Power Supply) | Heavy-duty DC power pack for layouts | $80 - $150 |
| Sound Decoder (Mobile Decoder) | DCC decoder with sound for locomotives | $50 - $120 |
| Automat (Throttle Controller) | Precision throttle for analog and DCC | $100 - $200 |
Manufacturing
Products are designed in the United States with headquarters in Edison, New Jersey. Manufacturing is outsourced primarily to facilities in Asia for cost efficiency. Assembly and quality control occur in-house where applicable.
Notable Products
- Tech 6 DCC System - 6-amp wireless DCC base station for multi-user model train operation.
- PowerPak 2800 - High-current DC power supply with circuit protection for large layouts.
- LI Series Sound Decoder - DCC decoder integrating sound effects and motor control for realistic operation.
- Automat III - Advanced throttle with momentum simulation for smooth train control.
Reputation
Enthusiasts regard MRC for reliable power supplies and affordable DCC entry points, valuing its durability in analog setups. Criticisms include outdated software interfaces in DCC systems compared to competitors like Digitrax. Professionals note consistent performance but recommend newer alternatives for advanced wireless features.