Adding sound to Atlas Master Series GP-38

Model Railroader Electronics and DCC
1

I purchased an Atlas Master Series GP-38, 2 years ago. It has sat in the box until recently. All my other diesels have sound and I would like to add sound to this one.

It has a factory Dual Mode decoder, and runs great in DCC. I have done many searches, but no one gives a clear answer. The closest suggestions was a LokSound V16-645 with a Sound bug?

Has anyone added sound to one of these Atlas"s

Thanks

Bill

2

You want to install 2 sound decoders into a GP38???

You have options…

  1. QSI makes a drop in decoder for this locomotive.

  2. Loksound makes a decoder that will plug into the 8 pin plug.

  3. Digitrax makes a decoder that will fit.

  4. Soundtraxx makes a few decoders that will work.

David B

3

Dave

The locomotive is DCC only, no sound

Bill

4

I just let you know your options…and there are alot of them.

What are you looking for? How much can you afford? What does your LHS carry? Have you installed a decoder before? Are you looking for great, good or just ok sound? Are you a horn or primemover guy?..

It is hard to help when I only get limited information on who I am trying to help…

David B

5

Dave

I have installed the 8 pin Digitrax DN1431P in a few Broadway Limited locomotives, which is just a plug in.

My LHS is Hobby town and they know nothing., I just need 4 function horn, bell, decent diesel sound. If its easy, the $ don’t matter.

I think the Digitrax 165 series is the way I may go.

Bill

6

Unfortunately, there is no “easy” when it comes to installing sound into your GP. You best route would be to go with a QSI Revolution-A(it has the same board as the Atlas one) and find a space for a speaker and baffel. Beyond that, you are on your own.

Another option is to find someone to put it in for you. You can then re-engineer what he has done and learn from it.

David B

7

Thanks Dave

Bill

8

There are a few pictures of sound installs in Atlas locos on the Litchfield Station site. None are the GP38, but there is an SD35, which should give you some ideas on how to fit the speaker and baffle. The Revolution-A decoder should drop right in and replace the light board.

–Randy