I have started to really buy things to get started on my first layout, and I decided on the cheaper and simple Bachmann EZ command system to try out DCC.
I have a Bachmann NYC FTA unit, DCC equipped, and I have taken another members advice and ordered a matching B unit, also decoder equipped.
Now that I will have DCC, what do I need to add sound to my engine?
I have seen places selling Sountraxx decoders, but they are also sold out of the model specific decoders and most only have the generic diesel sound one, how does this one sound? I haven’t found a website with a sound byte for it.
After the 1st installation it gets much easier.Each engine has it’s own set of problems/adjustments.Tony’s train xchange has a section on thier web site that may help you.You may want to wait a bit for soundtraxx tusami to be released.You might also have Tony’s install the sound if you think it will be too much of a challange at this time
These guys had the Soundtraxx “sound specific” decoders in stock not too long ago.
Just my 2 cents but for the best sound, for now, go with the DSX decoders if you don’t want to wait for the Tsuanmi to hit the market. The DSX must be used in conjunction with a separate motor decoder, like a Digitrax 163. I’ve heard the “LC” decoders and was dissappointed in the sound produced due to the smaller amplifier that the LC comes with. The sound from the DSX is a little more dynamic and with good baffling resembles more what you would get with a BLI locomotive that has a single speaker.
You can e-mail the vendors I mentioned. I like LItchfield Station as Bruce usually responds quickly.
http://www.soundtraxx.com/docs/dsxdssheet.pdf here is a link that will give you some idea as to what it takes to install these your self. They are not really that diffucult to do.Along with all the other great places mentioned Loys Toys have done sound installations for me soundtraxx first gen diesel and they do an exellent job.Fred Standish I believe his name was real easy guy to talk with on the phone.Terry.
Since you allready have motor control then all you need is the sound decoder and speaker. I do not know how much function control you have with bachmanns system,but if you install a sound decoder you will have to program it to the same address as the power unit if your system does not support consiting.I imagine that your ft’s are set to address three your sound decoder should also be pre set to address three from the factory so you might not have to do anything besides install.Terry
You may want to get a non-powered FTB unit to put the DSX and speakers in. You may have to find a friend, or PC to program the locomotives to operate together appropriately. See the Feb issue on MR for an article on speaker installation.
I read where a switch was installed between the DSX decoder and the other decoder driving the motor to help programming. Apparently, isolating the sound decoder will keep you from reprogramming it when programming the other or vice-versa. I’m going to do a sound installation, but I’m waiting on the Tsunami ( lack of capital not so much product quality). You said your B-unit is DCC equipped, does that mean its powered? I don’t know if there will be enough room in a powered “B” for a sound decoder and speaker. Plase keep us posted and good luck!
Check the documentation to that Bachmann DCC system before you go to the expense of installing a sound decoder, and make sure it can control a sound decoder. You need at least 6 function keys, F1-F6, for sound. You may need to get a better DCC system in order to utilize sound.
Yeah, the Bachmann system does sound, I read a review in MR about it and read other information in other places that all mentioned that it did support sound.