Thinking about getting an Atlas NRE Genset in HO scale. Is the engine good with factory sound? Or should I get DCC ready and get it done afterwards?
I got 2 of them from the first release. At the time there was no appropriate sound decoder so I installed silent ones.
Since many decoders with the sound of 2 or 3 diesel engines have been available like SoundTraxx 828036 TSU-AT1000 or 885012 TSU-21P. ESU Loksound has Genset sound files available. Someday I may try one of these.
These engines run great and I love the 3-stack look !
The current run of the Atlas Genset with Loksound is a great loco. I have 2. My CSX versions have alternating flashing ditchlights. Nice touch. Not sure if the other roadnames would have this programming, but it is authentic for CSX.
I don't know if the Prime Mover sound is authentic.
And this is the problem with sound locos...and their need to be authentic (otherwise receive the rath of self determined picky internet fidelity critics.)
If its authentic, then real Genset Prime Movers must sound like a rattling bag of marbles. Not very entertaining.
Maybe listen to one on You Tube to see if you like it.
If I could figure out how to program flashing ditchlights into a Loksound, I'd probably replace the authentic bag of marbles with a more pleasant GE FDL.
But, overall, they are great locomotives with nice features and great quality design and assembly.
- Douglas
They are advertised as coming with Loksound decoders which are pretty good. You won't be able to install a loksound and speaker cheaper by the time you buy a speaker and pay for shipping.
Henry
COB Potomac & Northern
Shenandoah Valley
Yes. If OP buys a Genset II with factory sound, it has the Loksound.