I have been trying to find info on this with little luck. I have 2 older non DCC ready Bachmann Spectrum Dash-8CWs. I am switching to DCC and am trying to find the best and easiest decoder to install in them. Any ideas or info? Is there a half way easily installed sound decoder that will fit? Sound is not a necessity but I would like it if I can make it work. They have a little sentimental value so I would like to use them instead of replacing them. Thanks!
CTConrail,
Easy and older are not necessarily congruous. An N-scale or Z-scale decoder should fit your Dash 8- but you'll more than likely need to hardwire it (vs a drop-in board-type decoder).
For non-sound I would go with either a TCS M4 or a LokPilot micro decoder. Although not inexpensive, they both offer fabulous motor-control. For sound I would look at the Loksound Select micro decoders. I don't know for sure if it will fit your Dash 8- but its very small. The challenge will be finding/creating a space for a speaker.
It looks like both the LokPilot and Loksound decoders come in a direct micro version (Lokpilot shown here). That would be similar to the NCE decoder you have in your SD-9 but you'd still need to hardwire it.
Hope that helps...
Tom
https://tstage9.wixsite.com/nyc-modeling
Time...It marches on...without ever turning around to see if anyone is even keeping in step.
An option - If you want DCC and sound without a lot of work - consider purchasing a Bachmann N scale GE DASH 8-40CW with factory installed Econimi Sound Value. Shop online for lowest cost.
The "Econimi Sound Value" decoder is a different decoder than the "Sound Value" so don't confuse them.
RR Baron
Ill have to look at those decoders. I have never seen a Spectrum Dash 8 with the econimi installed. Actually I have only seem newer DCC ready ones but none that come with a decoder. Then again I haven't really looked anywhere besides ebay. I don't mind hardwiring and doing a little work to install a decoder just want to know which will work and fit best.