Thanks everyone for the input. After deliberation over this thread’s content, and a discussion with two hobby shops, I’ve opted to go with the Soundtraxx Blunami 2200. I ordered 1 for now, and pending how that goes I’ll either stick with that or try something new. I will have to do some work, but just to attatch the speaker.
Both hobby shops overwhelmingly raved about the Blunami, it’s the Tsunami 2 but with bluetooth capability which makes programming easy (via phone) and you can also use phones/tablets as additional throttles should you have visitors. Not to mention, the 2200 is plug-and-play with the models I’m looking to initially convert just need to peel back a very small amount of the wrap. One of the hobby shop owners was actually actively in the process of changing his personal locomotive fleet. When I walked in he was working on #4
Although it’s a touch pricey, the Blunami does seem to have some advantages over regular sound decoders. It will be interesting to see if that becomes the next step in DCC - “user friendly” sound decoders that you control and program with your phone or tablet.
Guess if it really catches on, I might have to break down and finally get a cell phone.
If you are running more than 2 locomotives, not necessarily at the same time but within the same session, controlling your trains from the cellphone is a true pleasure. Switching locos is super easy, and the cell is way more confortable to handle than some of those larger DCC system handles. Other advantage: no wires and no issues with batteries. You can also use an older cellphone at low cost, without a data plan or phone line (these are not necessary to work in Wifi or Bluetooth mode). Setting up a consist is also super-easy. The only investment needed is a Wifi interface, which most major DCC systems offer I believe. The app is free on Android phones. Iphone users have access to a free app, but with limited features. Some folks don’t like the screen interface, but I got used to it.
I am curious about Blunami. For now, I find it cost prohibitive, but like most things, the price will probably go down. Hopefully anyway. I use Digitrax sound decoders that are way more affordable (about half the price - which is not insignificant for a loco junkie like me). But I look forward to seeing reports about how the Blunami pans out in terms of installation, how they work through tunnels, large layouts, other operators using ones in the same session, interaction with various systems and decoders, etc.
I get it, Simon. In fact, I purchased an ESU CabControl wireless DCC system a little over a year ago to try, which has built-in wi-fi and can also use my home’s wi-fi. It’s okay and the MCII throttle has some neat features to it but the system can also be a bit finnicky.
Although tethered, I find my Power Cab more comfortable to hold than a cellphone. It also doesn’t require me to look at the LCD screen or throttle buttons if I want to change speeds, change direction, blow the whistle or horn, or apply the emergency stop. I can do all that with my thumb - without looking - one-handed.
And, while perhaps a little faster using a cellphone interface, pulling up another locomotive address using the SELECT LOCO button or RECALL button is not a big deal to me. So, I guess I’m one of those in the “don’t like the screen interface” group when operating trains.
I don’t see it catching on with ho scale. A large part of the community doesn’t even use DC. I consider myself tech savvy and am young but I don’t want to use my phone for operation. The model railroad is my chance to be unplugged from all of that.
I have had Loksound 5 and tsunami 2 big steam (2021 release) in an Athearn Big boy as a control. The Loksound 5 provided significantly better motor control. I don’t believe the Tsunami 2 steam decoders are priced well. They get outcompeted by both Loksound 5 and TCS Wow Steam in audio, performance, and control. However, they aren’t bad, just badly priced. Econami decoders are a much better value proposition if you can find them.
Braden, having no steam on my layout except for one 10 year old Broadway Limited Hudson I can’t question any of your comments; I’m sure they’re accurate. My comments reflect just my own experience with my diesel only locomotives.
I’ve installed a couple of Economi sound decoders and am quite pleased with them. They’re not a “bare bones” decoder at all, and given the price difference to Tsunamis, are a good deal.