Alco PA sound decoder

Model Railroader Prototype information for the modeler
1

Does anyone know who makes a sound decoder for an Alco PA locomotive in HO? I have a Proto 2000 “A” unit, but would like to add a sound decoder. Also is there a specific “sound” that the PA’s made or is it similar to other diesels of that era? Thanks. JRP Great Southwest and Pacific RR

2

SoundTraxx Tsunami or QSI Revolution should both have Alco sound files. When you order a sound decoder from Litchfield Station, Tony’s Trains, or Ulrich Hobby Shop they have a rather long listing of available sounds for each brand from which you can choose.

Go to the QSI or SoundTraxx web sites and you can browse through the available sounds and then pick the decoder type number that you need.

All Alco diesel locomotives had a very distinctive sounding diesel engine.

http://www.soundtraxx.com/dsd/tsunami/tsunamisound.php

http://www.tonystrains.com/products/qsi_solutions_main.htm

3

John

I had Bruce at Litchfield put decoders in an Alco Pa "A&B. The A unit did not have room in it for a speaker so he used motor control only and put sound and motor in the B unit. FWIW. [:)]

Lee

4

Thanks Cacole, Your information is very helpful. JRP

5

Thanks Lee. I know Bruce too and will see if he can do the same. JRP

6

I just listened to most of those sound files, while the sound is still very good, it seems like none of the engines were under load at all, just run up. Does anyone make a recording of engines that are under full load? The EMD’s and GEs sound completely different at full HP, lots of “bark” I didn’t hear that come through much. I would bet I’m just being finiky though. The only FM’s i have really heard were in ships, can;t get a decent recording of stack speak that way… no idea about the Baldwins at all.

7

I agree with the sound intensity comment. Most sound like a no-load situation, maybe just increased revs, And I don’t recall having heard the transition sounds either.