A model vehicle control apparatus. A button controls an aspect of the model vehicle system, or multiple aspects, such as both sound and control. The button is configured to provide more than two outputs depending upon the manner of activation by a user based on pressure or position (more than ON/OFF). Signals corresponding to those outputs are then transmitted to a model vehicle, accessory, or other apparatus in the system. In one embodiment, the button is a pressure-sensitive button. Variations in the pressure select among multiple different possible outputs. For example, a number of sounds can be stored in a memory, with varying pressures selecting different sounds to be played. These sounds can vary non-linearly, not just getting louder, but also changing in type, pitch, etc. Thus, by a variation in pressure, a user can play the sound like a musical instrument. A second embodiment would allow for control of speed and direction of model vehicle, engines and accessories.