Can wiring & ops for 2-track (DC power) train "balloon" (a/k/a "Turnaround") be simple?

The more I read, the more Qs pop into my nearly-vacant attic-space (head).

Just learned that there is a name for the turnaround at the end of a spur that enables any train to turn around, if there's enough track provided -- it's called a balloon. (Like the speech balloons in comic books.)

I'm thinking (too much) about another blog post for the future: balloon-layouts, in general terms.

I want to know that if I implicitly include 2-rail systems in the discussion, will I be glossing over a major problem area for NON-DCC systems? IOW (in other words), is a smooth turnaround for a DC powered train still a design or operations headache for the amateur modeler?

If unclear, I mean a train turning around and returning via a switch, on the same track as before.

I assume you mean a reverse loop as it's know over here.

We use mainly turntables and triangles here in the UK although most turntables went with the end of steam.

A reverse loop is easy to wire up, an on - on switch is required to reverse polarity when the loco runs around the loop to face the other way, other than that it's pretty easy. Will see if I can find a wiring diag for you.

I got my "balloon" terminology from Wikipedia, where it is described as the means for turning the entire train on a REAL railroad, not just the engine. I believe it is a method used occasionally on commuter lines, where the order of the cars kept the same is of some importance. I read a few years ago that a New York commuter railway had always kept the "bar car" at a fixed position within the order. Easier to find for the bleary-eyed stumblers, I think.
(The commuter train where I live now simply reverses the train and puts an observing engineer at the lead car for reverse travel; I know other railroads will occasionally put the engine at the lead end by detaching it at repositioning at the end of the line.)

I know hobbyists have been turning engines by the means you mentioned forever. Some even lift it off the tracks!

It's one of those UK/USA terminology clashes I'm afraid. Over here a Balloon loop is known as a reverse loop, it is a simple circle of track with a Y point and input track the loco & train simply runs around the track and runs out of the loop facing the other way. A simple polarity change switch is all that is required, Hornby do such a switch a simple change over on-on switch, I have the correct wiring diag someone where I will endeavour to dig it out.