N-Scale Bachmann Spectrum Baldwin 2-8-0 with Decoder

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I’m considering the purchase of a new model N-Scale Bachmann Spectrum 2-8-0 Consolidation (N 84551) that comes with a decoder installed. I’d appreciate any information on its performance and quality. Can a sound decoder be installed in it?

Thanks for the help,

Bob

2

I know you specify N scale, but I model Ho and several Bachmann standard and Spectrum DCC ONBoard locos that all run perfectly satisfactorily with NO PROBLEMS in the 4.5 years I have been back in the hobby and buying Bachmanns.

I can’t imagine their N scale stuff to be any less.

I wouldn’t know about adding sound as I don’t use sound on any of my locos.

EDIT: actually I DO have some Bachmann DC N scale standard issue locos, which all seem to run fine {except one needs a bit more juice to run than I think it should} and they only get run at Xmas time, under the tree layout for Xmas.

3

We had a club member with a Bachmann Spectrum N scale DCC equipped locomotive that ran better than anything else she owned.

I have no idea about adding sound to one, though, because I model HO and G only.

4

I have three of the earlier run 2-8-0 models with DCC that I installed, and I love them. The only thing I’ve read about the on board DCC is that it’s limited to 28 speed steps, while better aftermarket chips get you 128. This basically spreads out the speed control to make acceleration and deceleration smoother. Other than that, they’re pretty good.

Lee

5

I want to thank everyone for their input. It looks like it’s a loco I can safely add to my roster.

Thanks again,

Bob