I need help wiring sound for my two HO scale steams. One is a 2-6-0, and the other is a 0-6-0. The 0-6-0 has DCC on board, but the 2-6-0 does not. Does the 2-6-0 have to have DCC in order to have sound on it?
I'm running a DC layout. I'm willing to spend between $100 and $150 depending cost and if it's worth it. I can solder pretty good. The 0-6-0 is a Mantua train. The 2-6-0 is an IHC engine. Both are HO scale. I'm not sure what kind of sound decoders I want
DC !... You won't be able to prgram the decoder. I've installed a couple of Tsunami tsu1000 in my IHC 2-6-0. Without DCC, I don't see the point. You're missing out on all the fun.
If your locos draw less than 0.75 amp at 12 volts DC with locked rotor, you might consider the Micro-Tsunami. It is a little smaller than the standard Tsunami. Newer HO steam locos usually draw less current than that. I have the Micro in a Spectrum 4-4-0 and three Roundhouse steamers, two 2-6-0s and a 2-8-0.. The decoder and speaker total around $130. The drawback is no eight pin NMRA plug on the decoder wiring. You have to solder one in yourself. I soldered in directly, no plug. Saves a little space. You have to find out if you have 1.5 volt lamps, LEDs or twelve volt bulbs.
Get a NCE Power Cab for around $130.00. This will allow programing the decoder.
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.