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Digitrax sound unit for Kato HO scale EMD F40 diesels
Well written, good comments on the cautions for installation. It’s nice to see upgrades that are affordable and easy to install.
I cannot comment as I help a friend of mine to sell Digitrax in the UK. However, after trying several DCC systems I still think Digitrax is best value for money and operation. My Club Members also thought this after a demonstration and we now have a DCC/DC switchable layout and another member about to buy a system. Thanks for a great magazine for someone who cannot get to the USA.
I’ve try it until october 2006, it’s a great item and the installation is very easy, I have also equipped my F40 with dicht light. Regards Francis
Great instructions for the novice when installing the decoder, plus verifiable comments on the quality of the sound (to include a not-too-serious shortcoming in this reasonably-priced product).
Ease of installation equals the great sound of operation. With several running, it sounds like your in the middle of the yard. Keep up the good work.
Its a nice, easy DCC install. The motor sounds are prototypical to a F40PH, however the horn sound is not like the F40PH sound that I have installed in my other KATO F40, which is an early Soundtrax stand alone sound unit with a Digitrax decoder. Having listened to the real thing, I found that this to be as close as one can get to real horn sound. Digitrax needs to post a replacement horn sound on the web site to download and upgrade the horn part of this unit. Also this same Digitrax factory horn sound is also the one used on their AC4400 module. I’m sure with a little searching on the Digitrax web site, one could download the correct sounding horn. Other than the horn, the Sounds are great. This DCC sound/decoder combo is an easy cost effective option to bringing sound and DCC control to the smooth running KATO products.
That’s not fair!! Now I have to run out and buy a Kato F40PH. Thanks a lot folks!