All,
As the topic line implies, I was wondering if a drop in sound decoder with speaker for the Bachmann DCC on board GS4 4-8-4 locomotive exists?
Thanks in advance,
Chuck S
Good morning Chuck,
I'm not familiar with the GS4, but it might be "sound ready". Please see if there is a speaker grille on the bottom of the tender. I looked at the exploded diagram for the DCC equipped GS4, and the grille is shown.
The tender has an NMRA 8 pin socket on the circuit board. You could install a Soundtraxx Tsunami TSU-1000 sound decoder, it comes with a JST 9 pin plug, so you would also need an adapter harness.
According to Soundtraxx, the appropriate decoder for the 4-8-4 is part #826103.
.
http://www.soundtraxx.com/dsd/tsunami/index.php?p=1000.php
Speakers are available separately. The #810054 is a good choice.
http://www.soundtraxx.com/access/index.php?p=speakers.php#bot
Here's the link to instruction manuals and quick start guide.
http://www.soundtraxx.com/index.php?p=manuals.php
Finally, if you choose a Tsunami 1000, you might read this thread for information about the JST 9 pin plug and shrink wrap.
http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,8263.0.html
If you have any more questions don't hesitate to ask.
Regards.
Hi, Yampa Bob!
Wow, that is some great info you provided. I have already started looking at some of the links. Shouldn't be too hard to get the loco set-up for sound. I have found all the components needed, however, I am having difficulty locating the 9 to 8 pin adapter. Will I have to make my own or do you know of one commercially available?
Thanks for your knowledge!
Chuck S
Pueblo, Colorado
If you do not have a LHS, Litchfield Station has what you need. Put the link in your Favorites Folder.
http://www.litchfieldstation.com/xcart/home.php?cat=76
Rich
Hey Chuck,
Do you by chance get your train supplies from Caboose Hobbies in Denver? You and I are practically neighbors.
Just in case, here's all the links.
http://www.caboosehobbies.com/catalog/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=1039&products_id=48657
http://www.caboosehobbies.com/catalog/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=1039&products_id=48550
The adapter harness is made by Digitrax, in 1" and 3" lengths.
http://www.caboosehobbies.com/catalog/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=264&products_id=87589
http://www.caboosehobbies.com/catalog/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=264&products_id=87588
Quote from: richG on March 19, 2009, 10:28:25 AM
If you do not have a LHS, Litchfield Station has what you need. Put the link in your Favorites Folder.
http://www.litchfieldstation.com/xcart/home.php?cat=76
Rich
Thanks Rich!
Chuck S
Quote from: Yampa Bob on March 19, 2009, 10:29:44 AM
Hey Chuck,
Do you by chance get your train supplies from Caboose Hobbies in Denver? That's my favorite store, will be down there next Monday. You and I are practically neighbors.
Just in case, here's all the links.
http://www.caboosehobbies.com/catalog/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=1039&products_id=48657
http://www.caboosehobbies.com/catalog/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=1039&products_id=48550
The adapter harness is made by Digitrax, in 1" and 3" lengths. I think the "PS" is the short one, "P" is the long one, they can verify. (Disregard the "N Scale" note on the pages.)
http://www.caboosehobbies.com/catalog/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=264&products_id=87589
http://www.caboosehobbies.com/catalog/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=264&products_id=87588
Hi Bob,
As a matter of fact, I am expecting a delivery today from Caboose. I have only visited their store once, but I will stop by whenever I need to go to Denver! (Special trip planned soon, I'll be in CO SPGS on saturday, lol)
I did some more reading of the manuals, and it looks like I need their eight pin connector. I will only be using 7 of the 9 wires. Since my loco is dcc equiped, I will just insulate the ends of the brown and green wires. Does this sound correct. That is what I took away from reading the installation manual.
UPDATE: Just found pictures of the Digitrax wire harness adapters. If these will just plug into the Soundtrax decoder I'll go this way. This project keeps getting easier and easier the more I learn.
I just got the NCE Power Pro system yesterday. This is my first venture into dcc. I couldn't see buying the entry-level system, only to have to begin adding upgrades right away. I will be starting a new layout from scratch.
As far as dcc equipped locos go, the install seems fairly simple. I appreciate the advice, links, and knowledge. Give me a pm sometime, neighbor.
Chuck S
Pueblo, Colorado
Unfortunately the PM feature doesn't work, we'll have to get hooked up by email.
The wiring harness on the decoder is for hard wiring, it will be removed to use the adapter. You have to trim back the shrink wrap to unplug the female portion.
http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,8263.0.html
Chuck
Are you aware that you will need a programming booster
to program Tsunami's with the Power Pro?
I suggest : DCC Specialties PowerPax or Soundtraxx PTB-100.
They are available for about $50.
I am not putting the Power Pro down, I own one, and they cannot program
Tsunami's on their own.
I also suggest the megabass speaker if you can find room. the difference in sound
is well worth it. The price is only slightly higher.
Tim Anders
Souderton, PA
Quote from: Tim on March 19, 2009, 12:58:23 PM
Chuck
Are you aware that you will need a programming booster
to program Tsunami's with the Power Pro?
I suggest : DCC Specialties PowerPax or Soundtraxx PTB-100.
They are available for about $50.
I am not putting the Power Pro down, I own one, and they cannot program
Tsunami's on their own.
I also suggest the megabass speaker if you can find room. the difference in sound
is well worth it. The price is only slightly higher.
Tim Anders
Souderton, PA
Hi Tim,
I think I remember reading something along those lines in one of the manuals I read for this project. I'm not sure, but I think I read it in the Soundtraxx installation manual. Not another $50 I want to spend, but worth it in the long run (more locos to program).
Thanks for the tip with the speaker, I may go with a larger one.
Chuck S.
Pueblo, Colorado
Just for your information, the MRC sound decoders come with a speaker already wired to the decoder. It's fitted with a two prong plug so the speaker can be fitted under the coal load if desired.
Gene
Quote from: SteamGene on March 19, 2009, 02:57:09 PM
Just for your information, the MRC sound decoders come with a speaker already wired to the decoder. It's fitted with a two prong plug so the speaker can be fitted under the coal load if desired.
Gene
Hi Gene,
I did a little research and the MRC seems like a pretty good deal. However, I am concerned about sound quality. The MRC website did not have a sample of their sounds so I went on YouTube and found some different locos. Just by ear, it sounds like the Soundtraxx is the clear winner. If anyone has any opinions I'd like to hear them (pun intended).
Thanks in advance,
Chuck S
I use the Micro-Tsunami and it has excellent sound and motor control. Some members in the club use the standard Tsunami. I use the 1.1 inch speaker. I get the decoders and speakers from Litchfield Station. To take advantage of the CVs, you should have DCC controller that can do this. I use the NCE Power Cab only because the club I belong to uses the NCE Power Pro.
Proper baffling can be a big help for good sound.
Rich
Quote from: richG on March 19, 2009, 08:49:24 PM
I use the Micro-Tsunami and it has excellent sound and motor control. Some members in the club use the standard Tsunami. I use the 1.1 inch speaker. I get the decoders and speakers from Litchfield Station. To take advantage of the CVs, you should have DCC controller that can do this. I use the NCE Power Cab only because the club I belong to uses the NCE Power Pro.
Proper baffling can be a big help for good sound.
Rich
Hi Rich,
I also compared the different sounds on the Soundtraxx website. My loco is the Southern Pacific Daylight. Their quick reference chart indicates that I should use the TSU-1000 Heavy Steam (p/n 826103) for my application. Litchfield Station has it for a reasonable price, and looks like free shipping over $75.00! I agree, having a good baffle will help the sound.
You mentioned earlier that you have the Power Pro and about a program booster. You also mentioned having a dcc controller that can take advantage of the CV's. Does your controller allow you to adjust the CV's? I thought I had done enough research and that the Power Pro would allow for adjustment of the CV's. I just picked it up last night from my LHS. The Power Pro was highly recommended by the local railroad club.
Thanks!!!
Chuck S
Chuck
The Pro-Cab that came with your Power Pro system can read and write
CV's directly. Page 57 in your manual shows how on the programming
track. CV's can also be programmed on the main (Ops mode).
Tim Anders
Souderton, PA
Quote from: Tim on March 20, 2009, 07:02:29 AM
Chuck
The Pro-Cab that came with your Power Pro system can read and write
CV's directly. Page 57 in your manual shows how on the programming
track. CV's can also be programmed on the main (Ops mode).
Tim Anders
Souderton, PA
Hi Tim,
I was sure I read that in the manual somewhere. Thank you for indicating the page and clearing up my confusion. Like was stated earlier, I guess I need to find a programming track booster to program the TSU-1000. Anyone have experience in this area?
Thanks in advance,
Chuck S.
Chuck
I had been using the DCC Specialties PowerPax booster,until
recently, I installed some Soundtraxx micro Tsunami's (TSU-750).
I found that I couldn't read the CV's, I could write but not read.
I switched to the Soundtraxx PTB-100 booster. OK now.
Tim Anders
Souderton, PA
All,
Well, I went with the Soundtraxx Tsunami TSU-1000. I added a pre-wired harness and plugged into the TSU-1000. Next, I soldered a speaker to the TSU-1000. The system works fine and sounds great. Just need more time to play around with the individual sounds to fine tune them.
Thanks to all for your sound advice, lol.
Chuck S.
Hi Chuck S.
I have tried the MRC steam sound unit in my new DCC ready Bachmann GS-4 and it does sound OK. Not as good as the sound in my BLI Paragon QSI or Blueline locos. My main problem with them was that they draw so much current that they were not suitable for long trains or grades. They may be fine for a flat world.
Chuck,
That's the same combination I went with - TSU-1000 and my Bachmann Loco. I added sound to a 2-10-2 Light Steam. The sound is fair - I put a 1" diameter speaker in and will try a larger oval speaker when I order parts. It doesn't come across as loud as my DCC With Sound Proto 2000 Series or Broadway Limited Steam locos but I haven't 'fiddled' with the different CV sound adjustments. I would like a little more volume out of the Bachmann.
This was my first upgrade but not my last for sure. I need to spend some money on track and layout - not locos.
Okie
Okie
The "Tsunami" decoders are not set at full volume as delivered.
You can increase the master volume.
Make sure your speaker is properly enclosed, it makes a big difference.
Also I would suggest replacing the speaker with a Megabass speaker
if you have room. They are much taller than the standard speakers.
I find that I have to turn the master volume down, but my room is only
10 X 13 ft. Even with the volume turned down it gets kinda noisy in there.
Tim Anders
Souderton, PA
Quote from: OkieRick on March 23, 2009, 11:34:04 PM
Chuck,
That's the same combination I went with - TSU-1000 and my Bachmann Loco. I added sound to a 2-10-2 Light Steam. The sound is fair - I put a 1" diameter speaker in and will try a larger oval speaker when I order parts. It doesn't come across as loud as my DCC With Sound Proto 2000 Series or Broadway Limited Steam locos but I haven't 'fiddled' with the different CV sound adjustments. I would like a little more volume out of the Bachmann.
This was my first upgrade but not my last for sure. I need to spend some money on track and layout - not locos.
Okie
Hi Okie,
My sound is not what I thought it would be either. I have an Athearn F7 AB unit with sound and it is LOUD. I did try to adjust the cv's for volume, but I could not audibly hear much difference. I did notice the steam release was louder. I could be missing something, but I adjusted all cv's for volume as listed by the manufacturer to no avail. The sound is decent, but when the loco is at 1/3 speed or faster, the engine noise overrides any sounds. I'm still in the process of trying different cv's to find the problem. I have downloaded and printed the users manual for the TSU-1000 so I can reference while I operate the loco. Sounds good, just not loud enough, yet! By the way, I have a PB106 for the speaker (it was recommended by Dave502 at Caboose Hobbies in Denver).
I'll try to update any positive results to this thread.
Chuck S
I always consider the sound level compared to the scale. I'm guessing if your HO loco is emitting 80 db, that might equate to 130 db or more standing beside a full scale locomotive.
Typical home music listening levels are 80 - 85 db, a rock concert is close to 150 db. Before you turn your loco into a "Sound Blaster" I suggest using a sound level meter to determine the current level.
http://www.neoseeker.com/Hardware/faqs/kb/3,19.html
What we are lacking is not sufficient volume, but rather sufficient sound quality. In other words, we can't "feel" the sound as we would if we could install 4" bass enhanced speakers.
I had to muffle the sound on my AC4400 due to complaints from my wife watching TV in the adjoining room. I didn't drill any holes and used the entire shell for sound.
Of course Gene probably likes his sound at 160 db. :D
Well said, Bob!
This is my first venture into sound, and I am probably basing the volumes by what the Athearn F7 AB sounds like right out of the box. Thanks for the tip about using a db meter to "scale" the volume.
160 db? Wow, lol :D
Chuck S
Athern supplies a wand with some of their products with which to wave over the loco to change the sound volume .
Don
Proto 2000 with QSI have the same magic wand. If you lose it any small magnet will do.
Rick
When my sound diesel passes directly in front of me, it is quite loud. When on the far side of the loop, it sounds like the loco is far away down in the valley. It really adds a dimension or illusion of distance to my small layout.
Actually, I like the sound fairly low. Most of my loss is in high frequency, so I can hear steam sounds quite well.
Gene
Good Morning All ! I was reading the discusion Last night and remembered that I had a Sound Level Meter from my stereo-hifi hobby . I went on line to Radio Shack to see if they were still available . Currently they have a digital meter Item # 33-2055 for $49.99 and a seven range Analog Meter item # 33-4050 for $45.99 . I used my meter to equalize the speakers for my 4 channel audio system . Someday it will rise again.
John II.
I've been a professional Square Dance Caller for 31 years, licensed by BMI/ASCAP. (semi-retired now, which means I no longer travel). I used a Radio Shack meter to set the speakers for various dance halls. For festivals we often used 6-8 speakers around the hall.
A bit off topic, but a memorable moment in my life. While calling in the Capitol Rotunda, during the proclamation of "Square Dance Day" by the Colorado Governor, an "administrative assistant" complained the sound was so loud no one could work, and if I didn't turn the volume down she would complain to the Governor. Well, I said go ahead, he's right out there dancing with my wife. :D
Oh yeah. One of those moments that come around all too seldom in a person's life.
One of those "Go ahead, take your best shot" moments.
Keep 'em coming folks - it all has to do with trains.
Okie Rick
(http://i44.tinypic.com/2yv5kzk.jpg)
Chuck S and all who have DCC Diesels and want to easily add sound -
MRC has "drop in" sound decoders with a speaker enclosed in a baffle for $39.98 - find them at your local / favorite hobby shop. They are on sale at Walthers for $29.98 but backordered - Due in May 06, 2009.
http://www.modelrectifier.com/search/product-view.asp?ID=8094
"The new Sounder is a sound-only decoder and speaker that's easily added to any HO locomotive equipped with a standard, non-sound decoder or any piece of rolling stock equipped with wheel pickups. Imagine how easier it would be to add sound to any train without the hassle of cramming a sound decoder and speaker in your locomotive. The Sounder adds all 28 NMRA accessory sound function capability to HO diesel locomotive, regardless of the make, or brand of decoder installed. The railroader simply hooks up two wires to the track power pickup points in the loco, and suddenly he can enjoy MRC's rich, Brilliance™ sound including two types of EMD 2nd generation prime mover sounds, multiple horns & bells, brakes, air releases, pop valves, cooling fans, coupling sounds and more. And not just sound. Using simple soldering techniques, the Sounder can provide a full complement of locomotive lighting effects: Prime Stratolight; Mars; Ditch; Gyro; Strobe (single & double); and on/off function for internal lighting.
This 17mm marvel comes with a 28mm speaker and baffle to enhance the full & powerfully vibrant range, performance and functionality only available from MRC.
* Use with any HO diesel non-sound decoder from MRC or any other brand
* Full 28 NMRA function capability
* Use with any NMRA compatible DCC system to add sound "on the rails" or "below the rails"
* Simple 2-wire hookup
* Superb Brilliance sound quality with multiple sounds and volume selectability
* Capable of providing six dynamic lighting effects
* 18V maximum input"
Luck in findng them - here's a list of hobby shops that have purchased them from Walthers.
http://www.walthers.com/exec/locate?part_no=500-1662
Visit your local hobby shop today!
Okie Rick
-
Thanks, Okie Rick!!!
I'll have to at least try the MRC. Doesn't seem too expensive of an option, and allows more choices when considering to purchase dcc ready, dcc equipped, or dcc with sound. I know some locos I want do not come in equipped mode and this could be a deciding factor.
Thanks again,
Chuck S
Al,
OK, here is what I did. I used the Soundtraxx Tsunami TSU-1000 Heavy Steam sound decoder, an 8-pin JST harness, a PB106 speaker, and a plastic cap for the baffle. I was lacking the baffle before and having one installed makes a world of difference. The salesman at the LHS must of assumed I could mount the face of the speaker to the perforated underside of the Bachmann tender, but not so.
I ended up having to trim some of the plastic to allow for the ears on the speaker, then used RTV to attach mount the speaker to the cap. I let it set for 24 hours. I then used velcro to attach the cap to the underside of the tender. The TSU-1000 has quite a nice array of various sounds and effects (even CV's for EQ, lol).
Now I have a great sounding loco.
Thanks everyone for your help!
Chuck S
Pueblo, Colorado
Here is another update!
Just acquired another Bachmann GS4 Northern Southern Pacific 4-8-4 Loco, Post War (black) #4459. I was so impressed with my original sound installation I decided to do it again ;D
Below is the MFG info and Caboose Hobbies (Denver, CO) SKU #'s. You will have to find or make your own baffle.
PS: Free US Shipping orders over $66.00 until 4/30/09
1 x DECODER;TSU1000;HEAVY STEAM
1amp motor stall + 4 - 100mA light outputs = $95.20
Manufacturer: SoundTraxx
Caboose Hobbies SKU# 1636826103
1 x WIRE HARNESS;SH;JST/NMRA 1-1/4
1-1/4 INCH
JST TO 8-PIN NMRA = $5.99
Manufacturer: Train Control Systems, TCS
Caboose Hobbies SKU# 11711042
1 x SPEAKER;ROUND;HB106R;HIGH-BASS
1.06 DIAMETER x 0.56 HIGH = $7.95
Manufacturer: American Hobby Dist
Caboose Hobbies SKU# 1194318
Hope This Helps!
Chuck S
Pueblo, Colorado
Chuck-
Congratulations on your noisy Steam Loco. I only put a 1" dia. round in my Light Steam 2-10-2, it needs the oval with more bass. I'll do that next time I order. The problem I have now is I wan't to pick up every innexpensive loco I see and add DCC and sound then I remember it costs $100+ to do so.
I need to get serious on my newest layout & get it finished. It's hard for me to get computer time, train time and grab some assistance from a family member to do something in getting this 4x8 finished so I can start on a 4x4 that will attach / detach to it.
Have a ball,
Rick
(http://s5.tinypic.com/mvncyg_th.jpg)