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Sound Decoder for Athearn

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  • Member since
    July 2006
  • From: Phoenix, AZ
  • 71 posts
Sound Decoder for Athearn
Posted by bmvernil on Tuesday, July 13, 2010 12:49 PM

What does everyone recommend for decoders with sound for the Athearn "Blue Box" units, GP38-2, GP40-2, SD40 and does anyone have a link to an example of an installation of them as well.

 

Thanks...

  • Member since
    May 2008
  • 4,612 posts
Posted by Hamltnblue on Tuesday, July 13, 2010 1:46 PM

Either QSI or Soundtraxx would be the best IMO.  Try their site. They have decoders specific for the loco types you noted.

Springfield PA

  • Member since
    February 2004
  • From: Elyria, OH
  • 2,586 posts
Posted by BRVRR on Friday, July 16, 2010 2:14 PM

I use the Soundtraxx DSD-100LC decoders in my Athearn BB locos. I have had good luck with these decoders and the sound pretty good.

Most BB locos have enough room in the shell for the decoder and a 5/8 to 1" diameter speaker, depending on the model of the loco.

I have also used a few of the low cost MRC diesel decoders in BB locos. They are about the same size as the Soundtraxx decoders and sound pretty good too. I have never had trouble with them and a couple are approaching 4 years of age.

The choice is yours. I personally don't think a BB loco is worth a Tsunami or QSI decoder, but they should work as well.

Good luck with whatever you choose. Once you have used sound in a loco, steam or diesel, you will never go back.

Remember its your railroad

Allan

  Track to the BRVRR Website:  http://www.brvrr.com/

  • Member since
    April 2010
  • From: glendale,az
  • 94 posts
Posted by flyboy10 on Monday, July 19, 2010 2:49 PM
sountraxx qsi or loksound

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