Ken,
I have no first hand experience in Germany on the trains. However I was with a coworker that grabbed a train from Nuremburg to Berlin and it was a very simple and was not confusing. We stood in line maybe 2 minutes and were done.
Unfortunately I had to go to the airport and head home.
I have used the trains extensively in the Netherlands, Italy, and England and have always waited till I got there.
I always do my homework before hand so I know times, approx. cost etc... but always bought once I arrived.
Sent you a PM
Safe travels
