What can I buy to get "DC" train sounds when my train is running. I don't have DCC.
Thanks to those who answered, however, I don't plan on going to DCC. I have a small HO layout and set it up with DC.
Is there a train sound system for DC only?
GSRACER What can I buy to get "DC" train sounds when my train is running. I don't have DCC.
I'm assuming you have bought a DCC sound-equipped locomotive, and the rest of your locomotives and layout are DC. And you intend to buy more such locomotives in the future. If the assumptions are wrong, my answer will also not be as sensible.
IMHO, running a DCC sound-equipped loco on DC is a real kludge. There is only a very narrow control range from about 7volts to 12 volts, because the sound electronics won't let the motor run until the electronics have the 7 volts or so they need to operate. If you have anything but relatively pure DC (pulse width modulation or SCR DC throttle) the decoder may mistake the pulses for DCC signals and get confused and not operate correctly. MRC DC power packs do have pulse suppression at higher voltages, so should operate a DCC loco in DC mode OK, provided you stay in the upper 2/3 of the throttle range. And even after you have gotten around all these issues, you can't change anything in the decoder default values (including how the sounds work) without a DCC throttle that has that capability.
Yes, there are devices that go between your power pack and track to activate the sounds with push buttons or toggles instead of rapidly switching the direction switch a set number of times. But they are not universal for all sound decoders, and the disadvantages listed above still apply.
There are several answers that are much better than trying to run a DCC sound-equipped loco on DC, but cost from about $100 to $150.
The MRC Tech 6 is basically a DCC system and DC power pack combined in one package. While not a full-fledged DCC system, it will do exactly what you really want provided you have less than 6 DCC locomotives. The Tech 6 provides a fairly seamless way to switch back and forth between DC and DCC modes on a DC layout.
You can achieve even greater DCC functionality by buying a Digitrax Zephyr or NCE Power Cab, and wiring them in combination with one of your DC throttles through a DPDT switch. Then, by throwing the switch, you change your DC layout to DCC operation. I have set my home layout and modules up this way because it will be a long time before I fully convert all my locomotives to DCC. But the modular club is DCC only. To prevent problems, on the modules the DC/DCC toggle is in the wiring underneath so there is no inadvertent activation at a show.
The catch with either the Tech 6 or the Zephyr/Power Cab arrangement is that you do not want to have DC locomotives on DCC-powered track when operating in DCC mode. The result will be a burned out motor, generally in less than an hour, and sometimes within a few minutes. The safest way is always to remove all DC locomotives off the layout before switching to DCC.
my thoughts and experiences, your choices
Fred W
If you're interested in HOn3 narrowgauge, the Blackstone locmotives run and make sound really well on DC. I got some of the first run just before I changed the layout over to DCC. For DC, the sound worked well, although you have limitations in terms of the control you have. I believe you can get add-on controllers in DC to overcome that, but don't know any details or if it applies to these models.
One neat thing is that the Tsunami decoder that is used can be customized by someone who is able to program in DCC and it will hold those settings when you take it back home to run on DC.
I believe that all the Tsunami deacoders have this capability, although check with Soundtraxx to be sure. That way, any loco that is Tsunami-equipped will probrably run on DC just as well as my Rio Grande locos do. Obviously, you can install a Tsunami in most locos, so if you're sticking to standard gauge like most, there you go, look for Tsunami-equipped locos.
This probably applies to some other sound decoders, but I have no experience so others will have to chime in to let you know about other options.
Mike Lehman
Urbana, IL
Thanks for your reply.
GSRACER What can I buy to get "DC" train sounds when my train is running. I don't have DCC. Thanks to those who answered, however, I don't plan on going to DCC. I have a small HO layout and set it up with DC. Is there a train sound system for DC only?
MRC’s Amazing TECH 6 DC Power Pack Gives Railroaders Full Control Of Any Sound Decoder Equipped Loco.
About $85.00 at Micro Mark.
Since you know how to use a PC, Google it.
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.