Having returned to model railroading recently, I am running on direct current track only. If possible, can I run locomotives with dcc sound installed and still get some of the sound features to work on dc track.
Most all sound decoders will function their basic sounds on DC. However, you will find your throttle range will be rather limited as sound decoders require around 6 volts to start working. So, you have to turn your throttle about half way up before the sound will start. This also become the "zero" point of your throttle and your engine will begine to move after you've reached the point of the sound turning on.
Bell and horn are usually activated by fidgiting with the reverse switch while moving to activate them. Different brands use this feature in different ways, so you'll need to read each decoder's manual for functionality.
Mark.
¡ uʍop ǝpısdn sı ǝɹnʇɐuƃıs ʎɯ 'dlǝɥ
Sure, lots of sound decoders can operate on DC. Not all and the control you have over sound varies. There are also add-on accessories that let you access more of the sounds and at least one powerpack that does the same thing.
The decoder that supports DC sound I'm familiar with is Soundtraxx's Tsunami. I acquired some of Blackstone's first HOn3 K-27 locos (Blackstone is a subsidiary of Soundtraxx, so uses the Tsunami) when my layout was still DC and was amazed at what I could hear.
If you have something in particualr in mind to acquire, like a sound-equipped loco, post up and I'm sure you'll get some info from someone with specific experience that can tell you more.
Mike Lehman
Urbana, IL
My first purchase in the hobby in 2005, when I returned to it after 40 plus years, was a Broadway Limited Imports Toronto, Hamilton, & Buffalo Hudson 4-6-4 with Quantum Sound. The retailer demonstrated the loco on a short length of DC-powered rails on his countertop. I was hooked. I learned that you can use the reverse switch or button on your controller to activate bell and whistle sounds, and of course to reverse the locomotive as well.
In time, you can purchase a nice DCC starter set, hook it up exactly the same way to the rails, and find that the decoder inside will recognize the change at the rails and you can use the system to make the locomotive accelerate realistically from a dead stop, and you can change the starting voltage....many things.
Enjoy!
-Crandell
Now,if you plan on running one locomotive at a time on your layout you will be light years ahead to buy a MRC Tech 6 since it gives you all DCC CVs plus all sounds the sound decoder has to offer.
The Tech 6 gives you the best of both worlds- DC and DCC/Sound.
Larry
Conductor.
Summerset Ry.
"Stay Alert, Don't get hurt Safety First!"
Thanks for your kind response.
Thank you for your kind response.
Thank you for your kind response and help.