All-
I just picked up a new release Kato HO C44-9W and I'm looking for a combo sound/motor decoder that would fit the bill without the need for any modification. CAn anyone make a recommendation for me?
Thanks in advance,
From what I have been able to determine, a Digitrax SoundFX decoder for a Kato AC4400 should fit the GE C44-9W. I have one ordered now from Litchfield Station, and should receive it by the middle of next week and then I'll know for sure.
Another option is to wait for the new SoundTraxx Diesel Tsunami that is to be released in an Atlas Locomotive format in a few weeks, and see if one of those will fit.
The Digitrax SoundFX board has LEDs for the headlight and backup light. Whether the Tsunami will also have the LEDs on it is unknown until it is actually released.
Consider joining the Yahoo SoundTraxx DCC group where they are discussing the new Tsunami diesel decoders.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/soundtraxx/?v=1&t=search&ch=web&pub=groups&sec=group&slk=3
Litchfield has free shipping over $75.00.
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.
Cacole-
Did you receive the decoder? How did it work out?
elansp wrote: Cacole- Did you receive the decoder? How did it work out?
No, I haven't received it yet, but I received another item that I ordered the day after placing the decoder order -- I received an invoice indicating that the SoundFX decoder has been shipped.
I'm with David M. Bedard on not recommending the Diesel Tsunami (or as one of my Italian friends calls it, the "Salami" decoder). I received one of them a few days ago and was very underwhelmed with the sound quality. Nowhere near as good as the steam versions.
From the picture on Litchfield Station's web site, the SoundFX appears to be exactly the same size and format as the constant lighting board that is in the Kato C44-9W, even the placement of the LED headlight and backup light. The QSI decoder does not have the LEDs or the holes into which the motor contacts are inserted, so it would require a major rework of the Kato engine.
davidmbedard wrote:FWIW, I dont recommend using the provided 1 inch speaker that comes with the QSI chip, rather order an 16mm oval speaker with baffel. Place it in the long hood under the light pipe. Hope this helps.David B
Hope this helps.
David B
Thanks for that tip about the speaker. I have several oval speakers with enclosures. I'll try fitting one of them instead of using the cutout in the bottom of the engine.