I would check out:
Simulating the sound of Amtrak head-end power
in the June 2012 Model Railroader. He talks about the different sound decoders available for Amtrak models.
Thanks guys! Soundtraxx IS probably the better choice.
-Al
I put a Soundtraxx and 1.22High Bass speaker in mine. I am also adding a secondary function controller for the various lights. The high bass really helps get the low range out. Keeping it enclosed with a decent sized enclosure helps a lot.
Richard
Yes, soundtraxx is "the name" when it comes to sound. Digitrax is "OK" (not terrible, but not the best).
Based on the spec sheet, the Tsunami is set with a 1w, 8ohm load capacity amplifier. so, anything that you can fit in the shell that's 8ohm should work fine.
-Dan
Builder of Bowser steam! Railimages Site
Kato's HO SD-38, AC-4400CW and F40PH all have a built-in enclosure for a 1" speaker, so any 1" round speaker would work OK.
The Tsunami decoder has more options and is probably overall a better sound decoder than the Digitrax, but I have two Kato engines with Digitrax sound decoders and am happy with them. If you have a PR3 or something similar hooked up to a programming track and a computer, you can download your own sounds to the Digitrax decoder too...and if you shop around, they cost a lot less than the Tsunami.
I have a Kato F40PH which is a great running loco in DC. I want to add a DCC decoder with sound for this loco. Digitrax has one, part no SDH164K1C which includes the speaker.
I also like Soundtraxx which has a decoder, STX-828064, but does not include a speaker. What would you recommend for a speaker for this decoder?
I've heard that the Digitrax unit is good, but is the Soundtraxx one better?
Thanks for your inputs.
Al