The main scene/diorama on my layout represents my hometown, Miles City, Montana, in 1959.  This diorama is 16" deep and 16' long, along one side of a former single car garage.  In order to provide staging and multiple train possibilities there are two hidden tracks behind the diorama, next to the wall.  I need access to these tracks, but don't want to see them otherwise.  So the backdrop behind them needs to be easily, and selectively, removable.  In many areas

Anyone had experience with the following decoders?What is the sound like?

DSD-B280LC and DSD - 090- LC.

I am beginning the benchwork and shortly thereafter laying the track for my staging area.  I have C100 Atlas track laying around, so I think I will use it in staging and on the helix.  I know I can scratch build Fast Tracks or CVT turnouts ( I intend to build CVT turnouts for the main deck of the layout), but since it is staging, I was planning on just using RTR turnouts.  What manufacturer and code would you recommend?  I am leaning towards Peco Code 100, but could do Walthers.  I have 9 #8s and 12 #6s.

I have a question regarding how I should design my CTC Panel (for JMRI).  When I operate the layout, it will run in a Point-to-Point manner with six staging tracks on either end.  In order to turn trains, I have a single reversing loop that is accessed directly for west staging, but east staging crosses over onto the west staging lead to access the reversing loop.