MRC HO Sound decoders

[NevinW]

I just wandered into MRC's website and discovered that they are now producing HO Steam and Diesel sound DCC decoders. They look like the speaker comes attached. the decoder looks reasonably small. List is $59, which is considerably cheaper than anything on the market. I know that these are apparently very new, but has anyone heard these and tried them out yet? So far, MRC has not been the market leader for DCC so I am not expecting a revolution or miracle here, however, a reasonable priced sound decorder would be a lot of fun. - Nevin

[Anonymous]

From my understanding, the MRC soud decoders are basicly reusing the sound masters from the Sound Box system they currently sell. Which means most of the4 sounds are sythisized. This also means as far as soudgoes its going to be very clunky.

I would stick with BLI or Install Soundtraxx

James.

[AntonioFP45]

[Anonymous]

I am in the process of converting to DCC becasue a friend of Mine got the BLI Hudson and Class A. When he showed what was possible I was hooked and decided I wanted it on all of my locomotives. All 54 of them, at $125.00 per decoder. That still sounds like it hurts a bit though.

James.

[johncolley]

AMEN! Once you get sound there's no turning back. I just got a Broadway E-7 and even on analog DC it is awesome! It has even more features once I convert to DCC.
tholcapn Port Townsend, WA

[dragenrider]

So what I'm hearing is that no one has actually tried an MRC sound decoder, correct? I'd be interested in hearing the results of some experimenting. I do tend to agree with the above posts. Soundtraxx and Broadway are going to remain leaders for a while.
But, I'd still like to know....

[tomytuna]

Sorry that i just found your note so long after your post!..i have indeed installed MRC sound decoder in Diesel....sound is ok!...not great compared to Broadway ltd steam i have....but the price was right and i love having the sound....If i could find soundtrax local i would love to give a try....Anyway....i paid $36.00 for decoder and i can afford that....ps....not the easiest istall trying to get speaker inside engine....Tom

[nhalco]

MRC Sound decoders are a reasonable alternate to Soundtraxx or BLI. I have one in a P1K RS2 and is is ok. If you follow the instructions from Tony's and install a resistor in one of the speaker leads it helps. They are TOO LOUD. Just make sure the decoder doesn't touch a plastic part. They do get HOT. From talking to MRC their new style due out in the spring will be even better.

[Anonymous]

Nevin, I just noticed your December inquiry about the MRC HO sound decoders. I have recently installed their steam version in a Bachmann consolidation.
The price was right, the sound is a pleasant addition to my railroad. I have been using MRC's stationary sound system, but it is no comparison to having the sound moving along with the engine.
The chuff, while very much welcomed, is hard to synchronize to the faster speed of the drivers. Still it is enjoyable, especially at slower speeds.
The steam whistles available are acceptable to me, but they are at a lower volume than the chuff. Wish it were the reverse.
All in all I am satisfied, as I could not afford any other sound. I plan on installing a few more in the near future.
Hope this helps.
Joe [:)]