What would be some old technology sound for layouts and equipment, other than the type today that is installed in the Locos,. DCC etc. I'm not sure of all the details of how the new stuff works so what the advantages are, I don't know. In any case, I'm not going to modify all my equipment with decodersand new electronics, unless I hit the Lotto maybe then I would.
Even if you have a really big locomotive roster I would still recommend going DCC. But use standard decoders (as can be bought in bulk for under $15 each!).
And to get good sound I can recommend using "Surroundtraxx" from Soundtraxx.
It is an digital sound system with full sound-following technology, using several speakers, and block detectors.
Sure it isn´t cheap, but compared to buying maybe 20 sound decoders.....
As you say, you don´t know much abput DCC. I don´t know much about DC, so I can´t say how to get good sound without DCC.
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You could just play sound effects in the background. There are Train sound CD's available on-line. Just pop it in your stereo or boom box and set it aside.
Springfield PA
I have a MRC Sound System that comes with a pair of speakers and a remote for selecting the sounds you want to play. It has several diesel horns, steam whistles and combinations within each. It also has miscellaneous sounds like track clicking, break squeals and others. It isn't very expensive, around $40-50. I was given this as a present a few years ago and it is OK for just sound effects if you place the speakers in the corners of your layout. I now have sound equipped engines and don't use it anymore, but if you want some sound effects this is a decent way to go.
Bob
Life is what happens while you are making other plans!
Take a look at the Fantasonics site. I do not use the products or represent them. Just found the site a few years ago. I was searching for different ways of using audio to vary the lighting in LED's and lamps.
I found that a AM ore FM radio speaker output simulates a welding arc using a 1.5 volt 1.2mm diameter lamp very well.
http://www.fantasonics.com/
Rich
If you ever fall over in public, pick yourself up and say “sorry it’s been a while since I inhabited a body.” And just walk away.