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The sound is not "messed up". But in my opinion, and this is strictly an opinion based on having two of them running side by side, the MRC sound decoder is not up to the elevated standard that we've been spoiled by with the QSI chip. Compared to having no sound, the MRC sound would have to be considered pretty darn nice. Compared to QSI, it's just not quite up to the same level. Considering the overall quality of the engine, I would certainly buy another one, and I'm looking at that right now. The sound system's shortcomings should not deter a dedicated Challenger fan from acquiring this fine locomotive. I doubt if Athearn will change horses and supply it with QSI sound because of contractual agreements. The other eventuality could be a tweaked and improved sound decoder from MRC that could level the playing field with QSI. Who knows? The engine is still capable of making good steam sounds. The bell is good. The whistle has one sound with no Doppler option. It is loud and is very on-off with no fade. This is a very worthy engine, otherwise. I would buy it again and probably will.
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