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Walthers ML-8

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  • Member since
    September 2014
  • From: 10,430’ (3,179 m)
  • 2,311 posts
Posted by jjdamnit on Sunday, April 4, 2021 12:54 PM

Hello All,

I did add one of these to my roster.

An ESU LokPilot Standard V1.0 decoder is the factory-installed decoder in the one I have.

The ESU decoder supports a mind-boggling array of CVs.

According to DecoderPro, under the Basic tab, this decoder can accommodate "DC Conversion".

My pike is DCC only so I have the decoder set to "NMRA Digital Only".

I have no experience with SoundTraxx decoders but there is no room in this unit for a speaker so there are no sound functions. I don't know if you could even install an aftermarket speaker in this small package.

An Energy Storage Device; A.K.A. "Keep-Alive", is installed in this unit so its short wheelbase over unpowered frogs is no problem.

Hope this helps.

"Uhh...I didn’t know it was 'impossible' I just made it work...sorry"

  • Member since
    August 2015
  • 409 posts
Posted by Autonerd on Thursday, April 1, 2021 12:13 AM

I don't have an answer, but I do have to say that Walthers had these on super-cheap sale and I missed my opportunity to buy one by a day -- for which I am kicking myself. Would have been a great addition to my Bachman 45 tonner, but I can't see paying $80 for another critter. Hopefully at some point Train World will blow them out at half price...

  • Member since
    February 2017
  • From: Harrisburg, PA
  • 660 posts
Posted by hbgatsf on Wednesday, March 31, 2021 7:35 AM

I may have figured out the difference.  It looks like the first run was either DC or DCC only, while the second run could run on both.  Is there any difference in performance in DCC?

Rick

Rick

  • Member since
    February 2017
  • From: Harrisburg, PA
  • 660 posts
Walthers ML-8
Posted by hbgatsf on Wednesday, March 31, 2021 6:31 AM

There are still a few of these for sale, both the first run (SoundTraxx) and the second run (ESU).

Any reason to buy one over the other?

Rick

Rick

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