Bachmann 1:20.3 2 8 0 Sound......

[GearDrivenSteam]

Now that I have one of these on the way, Who makes a good  sound unit it? There was a gentleman who had a video of I think phoenix sound in one. I know Soundtraxx used to make the Seirra but seems like they don't anymore. So who makes it??

[kstrong]

How much functionality are you looking for, and how do you plan on controlling the trains? Phoenix has long been the top drawer sound system in terms of quality, programmability and functionality, but they're also top drawer in terms of price. Their systems are compatible with pretty much every form of control (DCC, battery R/C, and traditional track power.) QSI makes a good sound system that's bundled with a speed control, which works off of DCC or battery via Airwire or similar wireless DCC controller. It's cheaper than the Phoenix board but doesn't have quite the programmability. The sounds on the QSI board also work with "traditional" track power. MRC also makes a DCC sound/throttle board. Dallee Electronics and a few others make simple sound cards that offer simple chuff, bell, and/or whistle at varying price points.

Later,

K

[GearDrivenSteam]

Thanks, Kevin. I was actually lookin at Phoenix. Since this is going to be my only "long haul" loco, that's probably what I wil go with. Their web site is kinda difficult to understand...at least for me, so I will probably give them a call. I've done many On30 DCC conversions with my caveman hands, so I'm kinds thinkin somethin bigger might not be too bad.

 

P.S. You're a gentleman and a scholar. I don't care what Rene says about you.  he he.

[cacole]

 You really don't have much choice any more -- SoundTraxx has dropped their Sierra sound system and they are very hard to find.

Phoenix would be the best choice, but is also the most pricey.

If you're running any form of DCC, a SoundTraxx Tsunami may work if used only for sound and not motor drive, but would probably yield weak sound in G-scale because it does not have that powerful an amplifier.

I've used a couple of SoundTraxx DSX sound-only decoders coupled with an AirWire900 in some locos, but here, too, the volume is weak because the DSX output is only 1 Watt.

[GearDrivenSteam]

Then Phoenix it is. Thanks yall.

[two tone]

Hi    Do go for the Pheonix sound, I use it and find the reed switches are very responcive   IE bell chuff I use axcil magnets on the tender with LGB magnets set on the track.

[curlyp]

I think the video was mine. The D&P Railroad. I am using QSI Sound/decoder, Q-wire receiver, Airwire controller and onboard battery. Mine was installed by Mike Greenwood at Throttle-UP I have been very happy with the sound and fine speed control. I now have 4 engines with this system. Bachmann K-27, 2 bachmann 2-8-0's and a two truck shay. Paul