Sound Decoder Suggestion for Proto 2000

[jlsmith7017]

Hello,

I have a couple of older Proto 2000 locos that I'd like to add a sound decoder and speaker to.  My question is: does anyone have a recommendation as to the specific sound decoder to use for the locks below?

Walthers F3A: The instructions say to pull circuit board and clip in a 9-pin decoder.  But, it looks like there is also a spot for an 8-pin connection.  If I could use the 8-pin connection, it looks like I could fit a small speaker where the old board went.  Anyone try this and, if so, what did you use?  Or, do I need to stick with the 9-pin?

Lifelike GP 9 II: These instructions say to disconnect the light board, replace the large PCB with a decoder, and plug it into the light board.  It looks like there may be some room for a speaker over one of the trucks.  Anyone successfully add DCC and speaker in this loco and, if so, what did you use?

Thanks for any and all suggestions.

- Jeff

 

 

[richg1998]

Here is a link to the SoundTraxx Econami decoder, the newest decoder out. Take a look at the features, sounds, horns, etc.

http://www.soundtraxx.com/dsd/econami/eco100.php

Smaller than the older Micro Tsunami and good for one amp for HO or N scale.

Not sure if there is a 9 pin socket under the shrink like the original Tsunami.

Does not look like it but here is the document. Scroll down to page 28 for that decoder.

http://www.soundtraxx.com/manuals/Econami-Installation-Guide.pdf

Rich

[basementdweller]

i would suggest you look at the Loksound decoders, great decoders, very small, sound great. you can fit a speaker in a cab if no room over the trucks. You buy them with the correct engine type (sound) downloaded. 

For the Life like I highly suggest removing the circuit board in the loco and hardwiring in the new decoder, Lifelike Proto boards are problematic, also suggest removing low voltage bulbs and replacing with LED's. 

[MisterBeasley]

Some years back, I installed an older-style Tsunami in one of those Proto GP9s.

I should have taken a picture before I stared removing metal, but you've got one for comparison.  I machined down the center of the frame where the purple decoder sits, and also notched out the space over the truck at the cab end to make room for the speaker.  I built a custom enclosure from styrene.

My guess is that you can get a better (or at least smaller) decoder and a speaker and enclosure to fit the space.  This installation was done several years ago, the technology has improved and there are more options in general now.  I'm still very happy with the way this engine performs and sounds, though.