Hello,
I am looking for a steam locomotive train set. The people at the local hobby store have been about as helpful as they can be but seem to be lacking in certain knowledge pertaining to DCC and sound. I am wanting to have sound and possibly steam. I have looked at buying the Spectrum Frontiersman set which has DCC on board but I am not sure what decoder I would need or controller to give it sound and be able to control it. I have also looked at buying the Iron King set which is not DCC equipped but has steam. I was curious what I would need to buy or if it is possible to get this engine to have sound and be able to control it. I would appreciate any advice anyone could give me.
Thank You,
JandD
J and D
If you are looking for DCC and sound I would suggest the Dynamis Sound Commander.
Although a little pricey, it comes with the Dynamis controller which can modify the sounds and speeds etc. through cv's that you can program. Most other set's Bachmann makes have either no sound or DCC. Some are DCC equipped but has no DCC controller.
It really depends if you want to go DC or DCC and what you want to get out of your model railroading. I chose DCC for the fun of running multiple trains on the same track and being able to control them independently.
Check out the product listing it has great starter set's. Here is the one I like with DCC and sound.
http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/products.php?act=viewProd&productId=3434
Good luck on your adventure and feel free to ask any questions whether you think they are to basic or to complicated. There are a number of great people here to offer excellent advise.
Jerry
I might add, to take the time and search through some of the topics in this forum. Just go up to the search box type in what you are interested in and READ. I am sure any topic you search for will come up. If not post a new question.
By all means take the time to read up on this hobby, it may help you make your decision.
Jerry
JandD-
Let me second Jerry's recommendation about the DCC Sound Commander. It has everything you need to get started with DCC model railroading, including a reliable, powerful and versatile DCC controller. The Bachmann 2-8-0 is an excellent locomotive and a good partner to the Dynamis DCC unit. I don't think there's a better DCC starter system on the market, regardless of manufacturer.
It is a little pricey at $600 but you won't have to pay anywhere near that much. Search on line hobby shops and ebay and you may well find it for half price or a little more. You could come up with a better entry system for $600 if you cherry picked a DCC system, DCC loco, rolling stock and track. However, you definitely could not do so for the $300-350 you're likely going to pay. And the Bachmann 2-8-0 would be a prime candidate for that cherry picked system. And so would the Dynamis, so the core of your system could look just like this ready to go set. So ... you can view this set as a great choice. About the only down side is that Bachmann only makes the set in Maine Central and C&O. The C&O has quite a few fans, and it's great if you like the MEC or C&O, but you are likely to be partial to different railroads.
Welcome aboard!!
-- D
Quote from: JandD on April 29, 2012, 11:52:31 AM
Hello,
I am looking for a steam locomotive train set. The people at the local hobby store have been about as helpful as they can be but seem to be lacking in certain knowledge pertaining to DCC and sound. I am wanting to have sound and possibly steam. I have looked at buying the Spectrum Frontiersman set which has DCC on board but I am not sure what decoder I would need or controller to give it sound and be able to control it. I have also looked at buying the Iron King set which is not DCC equipped but has steam. I was curious what I would need to buy or if it is possible to get this engine to have sound and be able to control it. I would appreciate any advice anyone could give me.
Thank You,
JandD
Some LHS do not have much knowledge of DCC and sound conversions if they do not specialize in trains. Lots of difference between a Local Hobby Shop and Local Train Shop.
I just did an Internet search for Bachmann DCC Sound Commander and saw a couple prices for about $400.00.
Make sure the one you buy from says Dynamis for a controller. Bachmann sells a DCC on board with similar label that is the old EZ Command with a diesel that goes for about $130.00.
Rich
Quote from: richg on April 29, 2012, 04:09:32 PM
Lots of difference between a Local Hobby Shop and Local Train Shop.
Rich-
You are so right.
The Twin Cities (where I live) used to have several excellent hobby shops which carried extensive inventories of trains and had the expertise to back it up. Now we have two places which offer excellent selections of merchandise but one is pretty naive about trains and I can't tell about the other because they appear too unfriendly to be willing to share any expertise if they have it.
I think it's fair to say there are no more than 50 or 60 genuine train shops left in the US and that's not very many. So we're all left to find those few remaining resources or figure out our problems ourselves. Boards like this one do a great job of making up for the extinction of authoratative model railroaders in hobby shops. I'm really not sure that there would still be much of a hobby without resources on the Inet.
-- D
Hi JandD!
For $300 I bought the Dynamis starter set ($120) and the Spectrum Cavalier DCC starter set ($180) from modeltrainstuff.com. The Dynamis wireless control has some line-of-sight issues but generally works very well and the Cavalier set is really beautiful (N&W 4-8-4) and the coaches are lit.
Have since added several DCC and sound locos and the Dynamis has handled them all. I am primarily an "O" scale person but the combo I listed above has been a wonderful intro to the world of HO wireless control!
Have fun,
Vern
Quote from: vern1959 on April 30, 2012, 11:47:18 AM
Hi JandD!
For $300 I bought the Dynamis starter set ($120) and the Spectrum Cavalier DCC starter set ($180) from modeltrainstuff.com. The Dynamis wireless control has some line-of-sight issues but generally works very well and the Cavalier set is really beautiful (N&W 4-8-4) and the coaches are lit.
Have since added several DCC and sound locos and the Dynamis has handled them all. I am primarily an "O" scale person but the combo I listed above has been a wonderful intro to the world of HO wireless control!
Have fun,
Vern
Sounds like someone who knows how to shop on line. Nice sugestion. The loco can be converted to sound.
Rich
Quote from: vern1959 on April 30, 2012, 11:47:18 AM
Hi JandD!
For $300 I bought the Dynamis starter set ($120) and the Spectrum Cavalier DCC starter set ($180) from modeltrainstuff.com. The Dynamis wireless control has some line-of-sight issues but generally works very well and the Cavalier set is really beautiful (N&W 4-8-4) and the coaches are lit.
Have since added several DCC and sound locos and the Dynamis has handled them all. I am primarily an "O" scale person but the combo I listed above has been a wonderful intro to the world of HO wireless control!
Have fun,
Vern
The Dynamis starter set sounds like a good option for my needs, I had already picked up a Cavalier set to start over after being away from model railroading for a few years. I too purchased from modeltrainstuff.com as they seem to have excellent prices and their shipping was super fast.
Clyde
Quote from: vern1959 on April 30, 2012, 11:47:18 AM
Hi JandD!
For $300 I bought the Dynamis starter set ($120) and the Spectrum Cavalier DCC starter set ($180) from modeltrainstuff.com. The Dynamis wireless control has some line-of-sight issues but generally works very well and the Cavalier set is really beautiful (N&W 4-8-4) and the coaches are lit.
Have since added several DCC and sound locos and the Dynamis has handled them all. I am primarily an "O" scale person but the combo I listed above has been a wonderful intro to the world of HO wireless control!
Have fun,
Vern
I was just wondering if the Dynamis starter set you are refering to is the Wireless E-Z Command Dynamis DCC controller #36505? I really like your suggestion seeing that I am on a little bit of a budget. I just want to make sure I am looking at the right controller.
thanks,
JandD
Thank you all for the information I am glad I decided to join the forum because I have been getting a little overwhelmed researching this hobby. I am very excited to get started but I am being very cautious before I make my first purchase. Like most everyone I am trying to get the most bang for my buck and my wife will only let me spend so much. I am just a little confused if DCC is the only way to get sound. The guy at the hobby store made it sound that way. Also If I buy a starter set that is DCC equipped besides getting the controller will I need to buy a decoder for the locomotive?
Thanks,
JandD
I am only talking Bachmann products. Not all DCC locos can be easily converted to DCC and DCC with sound. There are too many variables. Bachmann has two diesels with sound and a 2-6-0 with sound that are good deals if you buy on line.
Many of the DCC ready and DCC on board are not easy to convert to sound.
Some, frame modification, soldering, removing capacitors on the PC board, the baffle for the speaker, etc.
Since you are so new to DCC, don't jump to fast.
No doubt you are looking through some of the messages so take paper/pen notes on different aspects of DCC and sound. Don't try to do this my memory as you might buy the wrong item.
Organize your Favorites list and store different links about different items. Your PC is a powerful device to do good on line shopping and data gathering.
I hate to say it but there is no best starter set. Just what works best for you.
The below fellow has a lot of good DCC and sound info and favors the Tsunami which Bachmann uses.
http://www.mrdccu.com/
Rich
J&D,
The products Vern was talking about did not come in a set. He individually purchased a Dynamis controller and the Cavalier set. The set comes with a DC controller but the loco is DCC equipped with a dual mode decoder which will run DC or DCC.
The set I posted the Sound Commander comes with the Dynamis controller and DCC equipped loco. It is a little pricey but there is the Digital Commander that is DCC and has the basic EZ Command system. I purchased this set to get me started in to DCC and eventually expand. My layout is getting bigger but I still use the basic EZ Command.
I and others may have different opinions like this set as it is affordable (150.00) and just what I needed to get started. Just because it is basic does not mean you can not run multiple or sound loco's. I on occasion run two sounders ( Bach's S4 and MTH's SD70 ACE) with other loco's running.
I am getting close to having to upgrade only because I want to start playing with cv's to tweak my engine.
Don't get overwhelmed. If you purchase Bachmann's DCC starter set or piece your own together it will be a fun experience you will not regret.
Jerry
Quote from: JandD on May 19, 2012, 08:04:29 PM
I am just a little confused if DCC is the only way to get sound. The guy at the hobby store made it sound that way. Also If I buy a starter set that is DCC equipped besides getting the controller will I need to buy a decoder for the locomotive?
Thanks,
JandD
DCC w/sound gets you sounds that move around with the train, but it's not the only way to get sound. At least for a smaller layout.
MRC makes that they call the Symphony 77. This is essentially two amplified speakers, one of which has a sound generator built in, a wall-wart power supply, and controller. You put the speakers under the layout, or on it in or behind a large building, and select the sounds with the controller.
You get a variety of steam, diesel, and generic (e.g., wheel clack, coupler slam, air hose release, crossing gate, etc.) railroad sound.
Some people do something similar with sound only DCC chips and a speaker inside a station, roundhouse, etc. There are also several devices for controlling the sounds of sound equiped locos, or cars with a sound chip and speaker in them, on a DC layout without getting into full blown DCC operation.
Or you could 'bite the bullet' and jump in with the set Jerry recommended.
Len
Ok so here is a link to the original set that I was contemplating purchasing from the Hobby store but then found it online cheaper. The man at the store was ready to sell me the Dynamis controller also but did not seem sure if the combination of the two would enable me to have sound. I like this set but I am wondering how much of a pain it would be to get sound to it.
http://www.dunnstoyandhobby.com/Bachmann_01303_TRAIN_SET_FRONTRSMAN_SOU_HO_p/bac01303.htm
Quote from: vern1959 on April 30, 2012, 11:47:18 AM
Hi JandD!
For $300 I bought the Dynamis starter set ($120) and the Spectrum Cavalier DCC starter set ($180) from modeltrainstuff.com. The Dynamis wireless control has some line-of-sight issues but generally works very well and the Cavalier set is really beautiful (N&W 4-8-4) and the coaches are lit.
Have since added several DCC and sound locos and the Dynamis has handled them all. I am primarily an "O" scale person but the combo I listed above has been a wonderful intro to the world of HO wireless control!
Have fun,
Vern
Vern does the Cavalier set have sound or do you have to add it after the fact?
J & D
The Sound Commander comes with everything. For 370.00 I think it is better than purchasing the Dynamis which comes in the Sound Commander then buying the Frontiersman set which is DCC no sound, adding a good soundtraxx decoder at least 100.00 plus installation if you don't know how. You still get the Spectrum 2-8-0 loco but with everything there for you. You do the math...
http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=bachmann+sound+commander&_sacat=19128&_odkw=&_osacat=19128
Jerry
also the Cavalier set does not have sound.
Quote from: Jerrys HO on May 20, 2012, 01:43:18 PM
J & D
The Sound Commander comes with everything. For 370.00 I think it is better than purchasing the Dynamis which comes in the Sound Commander then buying the Frontiersman set which is DCC no sound, adding a good soundtraxx decoder at least 100.00 plus installation if you don't know how. You still get the Spectrum 2-8-0 loco but with everything there for you. You do the math...
http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=bachmann+sound+commander&_sacat=19128&_odkw=&_osacat=19128
Jerry
also the Cavalier set does not have sound.
Jerry and Rich
I have found the Dynamis Sound Commander at a site called Hobbylinc.com http://www.hobbylinc.com/cgi-bin/s8.cgi?tag0_i=541&cat_s=UAC&p=2 for $317 I am now wondering about the history of the C&O version vs. the New Haven version what are your opions please? You guys have been very helpful and I really do appreciate the help.
JandD
If you are wondering about my obsession with sound it is because my wife and I are about to have our first child (a boy) and since he wont be able to touch the set for several years I would still like to make it as interesting as possible for him. My hope is that he will take a liking to model trains and that it will become something we can do as father and son.
Thanks Again,
JandD
Quote from: Jerrys HO on May 20, 2012, 01:43:18 PM
J & D
The Sound Commander comes with everything. For 370.00 I think it is better than purchasing the Dynamis which comes in the Sound Commander then buying the Frontiersman set which is DCC no sound, adding a good soundtraxx decoder at least 100.00 plus installation if you don't know how. You still get the Spectrum 2-8-0 loco but with everything there for you. You do the math...
http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw=bachmann+sound+commander&_sacat=19128&_odkw=&_osacat=19128
Jerry
also the Cavalier set does not have sound.
It all depends on what loco/train you are really interested in. While you pointed out what may be a better buy and/or easier , I wanted the N&W J611, so the Cavalier set was a better purchase for my wants/needs IMHO. I can then option it out the way I want to. Savings is only one aspect, ease of use yet another, but in the end those make no difference if it is not what you really wanted.
Clyde
Hi JandD!
As wildpaws said I wanted the N&W "J" and those beautiful lit passenger cars so that was my choice. I installed a sound decoder in the tender as it was a very easy install but I am used to modifying my O-Scale stuff so I am set up for sound card and speaker installations already. If you want sound out of the box then Jerry makes a good recommendation in the Sound Commander sets and you seem to have found some good deals on them. You are wise to want sound now, my grandchildren love my layouts (they are 3 and 1 1/2 years old) but it is the sound that really rivets their attention and they love to blow the whistle and ring the bell. Whatever your choice I envision years of enjoyment with your little one(s) you won't regret this purchase! ;)
Vern ;)
JandD-
Define "perfect." I'm pretty sure we all have a different interprettion of this word, especially in regards to model railroad equipment. But I would say your choice is definitely in the running for top choice. The Bachmann 2-8-0 is one of the best steam engines Bachmann, or any of the mass market producers, have produced. You'll get decent couplers with your set and the NS EZTrack is a solid, if pricy, product. There is only one fly in the ointment: You'll get a DCC locomotive without a DCC controller. If you read carefully, you'll see that you will get a power pack, not a DCC controller. That means that you'll need to purchase a DCC system as soon as you acquire another locomotive and the intent to run both locos at the same time on the same tracks.
The price you are paying just about makes up for the lack of a DCC controller, especially if you plan to use the track in the future. The power pack will always be useful as it can power accessories and lights. You can buy a DCC Bachmann Connie, three freight cars and the track on line for less than the set price. If you were to also buy the power pack you'd be at just about a horse apiece.
So ... I suggest that you buy the listed set only if you do NOT have a surplus wall wart or two to use for accessories and layout lights. If you have wall warts (most households have several), buy the loco, cars and track separately and buy a DCC controller instead of a power pack. The Favorite Spot is an online seller you ought to consider. They have a good selection of merchandise and excellent prices. You'll still have to buy a DCC controller, and your package will cost more than the set you are considering, but you'll also have much more potential for expansion.
Look at the Bachmann Dynamis DCC system (I strongly discourage the Bachmann EZ DCC) or an entry-level system from another manufacturer.
Good luck with your trains and welcome to model railroading.
-- D
Doneldon,
The Sound Commander has the Dynamis included. I don't know if you realized that.
I suggest this only because for the money he has to invest this is EVERYTHING that I understand J&D is looking for. It is also a step up from the EZ Command controller that I have and use and would also recommend in the Digital Commander set. Both sets unique in there own way.
J&D
I started with the Digital Commander (no regrets) but wish I would have searched longer and found the Sound Commander.
Anyway you roll we will be here to help.
Jerry
Quote from: Jerrys HO on May 20, 2012, 08:13:47 PM
The Sound Commander has the Dynamis included. I don't know if you realized that.
Jerry-
Yes, I understand that. But the OP had asked about the Frontiersman Train Set as in:
http://www.dunnstoyandhobby.com/Bachmann_01303_TRAIN_SET_FRONTRSMAN_SOU_HO_p/bac01303.htm
So my answer was in regards to that set which has just a DC power pack even though the loco is DCC.
-- D
D,
QuoteYes, I understand that. But the OP had asked about the Frontiersman Train Set
I was just making sure so we don't confuse the OP. In his last couple of post he quotes,
QuoteI have found the Dynamis Sound Commander at a site called Hobbylinc.com http://www.hobbylinc.com/cgi-bin/s8.cgi?tag0_i=541&cat_s=UAC&p=2 for $317 I am now wondering about the history of the C&O version vs. the New Haven version what are your opions please? You guys have been very helpful and I really do appreciate the help.
I can not answer part of OP's question regarding the history of C&O vs. New Haven but I know most here can. Maybe a search of the I-NET on the two is in order or someone can post a little background on this.
Jerry