I have two LokSound decoders installed so far. I really like the motor control and the sounds available with these decoders, even with an unbaffled speaker. However, I am unclear on a couple of issues:1. What does "shift mode" mean and how do I use it?2. What do you use CVs 129 to 140 for ? My decoders all show a value of "0." I don't know how or when to use them.I looked through the manual and I can't find any reference to "shift mode," any instructions, or examples on how to use these CVs.
I also couldn't find any reference to manual notching, yet it exists. With the help of the excellent tech support, I was able to set that up, as well as being able to silence the loco so that sounds don't automatically start up when the layout is turned on. They showed me how to tie the sounds to turning the headlight on. Really cool!
Also, does anyone have information about whether the manual is to be updated? I gather that it is inaccurate in some areas, and is missing information.
Thanks for any help.
Scott,
Glad you are having good success with the 3.5. I just finished installing one into my MP15 and though it runs very nice like you pointed out, my sound is weak. Especially when accelerating, I can't hear the engine sounds past idle and its not because the loco is droning it out, it is quite. Did you notice this? Keep in mind; I have not touched one CV yet.
Also, my read headlight stays on all the time, does yours? I am sure I got everything wired right.
Thanks for any input and sorry I can’t answer any of your questions,
On both of my decoders, the sound is astonishingly good. One speaker is installed attached to the side wall of an HO G.E. 44-tonner. No sound chamber behind it at all. It is really good.
To adjust the sound levels without getting into the CVs, try this: push your F8 key twice rapidly. LokSound offers this as an instantaneous way to change sound levels.
Push the F8 key twice rapidly. You should hear the sound level change. There are 4 steps of sound: very low, moderate, louder yet, and really loud.
As to the headlight/backup light: check your settings for CVs 113 (forward) and CV 114 (reverse). They sould be each 15 for maximum brightness. If you want Rule 17 lighting, add 160 to the value in CV 113 and 176 for that in CV 114.
What will happen is the the light will dim as soon as you bring the loco to a stop. It will return to its maximum brightness when you start it up. You can also use values lower than 15 to reduce the running brightness.
If you haven't done it already, I recommend you spend the time to read back all the CVs in your decoder and to keep a record of them. I use DecoderPro for this purpose, and to batch-program all the CVs in a new decoder at once. It is a really cool free program. Contact me off-list if you need more information.