I installed the first of 3 of these DCC decoders into the B-unit of a A-B-A set. It runs about as expected, but the sounds are virtually inaudible. If I strain, I can hear the bell, faintly, but not the prime mover sounds or any other sounds like rail-clack, horn, etc… This cannot be normal, can it? Or just a bad decoder board?
What is the proper value for CV123 (primer mover type) for a C-Liner?
The volumes are all individually adjustable, perhaps they are turned down too low. The manual lists the CVs for asjusting the different sounds, there are only 4 options, 0-3, 0 would be off. As for prime mover, the manual is completely useless. It says there are 4 different ones, but it does not say which they are, so as to which one is the right one for the C-liner, I have no idea.
–Randy
FYI, my decoder is on its way to MRC to be checked out. And, they say that the prime mover sounds are generic, rather than specific for a C-Liner. To quote the MRC response I received:
“there is no correct fairbanks morse sound in that decoder. it is a generic sound decoder for that loco.”
So, I am just hoping to get sound now. Audible sound, that is, as opposed to in-audible sound, which is what I started out not hearing.
Protypical sound will be a stretch.
I am such a happy camper.
Doesnt buying MRC decoders just leave a bad taste in your mouth?
Seriously, MRC sold you a decoder that probably caused you to race home with a giddy look on your face only to find out that 1) it is not the proper sounds for that loco (even though it is MADE for it) and 2) you cant hear it…that would have ruined my day.
The only real way to increase the sound is to get a bigger speaker/baffle in there…but being N scale, you are out of luck.
In the future, if you want sound in ABA consists, think about gutting one of the units and putting a good quality decoder/speaker in there…you will be MUCH happier in the long run.
David B