Need a Plug-and Play Decoder Suggestion

[wcu boy]

I own an Atlas GP38 High Nose Late Version Master Silver Series Locomotive. According to the Atlas web site, this engine is decoder-ready with a NMRA 8-pin plug for DCC. I prefer a plug-and-play decoder.

Any suggestions from those who are more experienced in these matters? I would appreciate any help.

[jrbernier]

Are you looking sound, or just motor contol?
Jim

[tstage]

I'm assuming you are just looking for a non-sound decoder?  I would chose one from either TCS or Lenz.  Both offer excellent BEMF and a variety of connectors for PNP.  I have a Lenz Silver MP in my older Walthers SW1 switcher and that puppy will do 0.33sMPH on speed step 001.

Tom

[wcu boy]

Thank you both for your quick responses. I looked at TCS's web site for a sound decoder; however, I was confused a little. The engine is a GP38, but the installation files did not allude to it being a plug and play installation. One GP38 installation was a hardwire, non-DCC ready while the other installation was a board replacement. I would like a simple plug-and-play application. It is interesting to me that Atlas's MP-15DC silver series engines are a simple plug and play. I would appreciate some wisdom about finding a plug and play sound decoder for this Atlas GP38 high nose late version master silver series engine. I appreciate any and all thoughts.

[richg1998]

Plug in a DZ126PS decoder. Does not get much simpler.

I have used the DZ125 which the 126 replaced.

http://www.digitrax.com/products/mobile-decoders/dz126ps/

Rich

[tstage]

If you are wanting to install sound - even if the sound decoder is PNP, the speaker install will be a little more involved.  I would try contacting TCS directly and getting their recommendation.  For sound, Loksound would be another excellent choice of brand.

Tom

[rrinker]

 If it has an 8 pin socket for a decoder, then the answer is, any decoder with an 8 pin plug.

 I have been using TCS for all my non-sound locos. The ESU Lokpilot would be another good option for top notch motor control. Since I have been using only Loksound for sound, I may switch to Lokpilot for all my non-sound.

                                   --Randy

 

[richg1998]

All the decoder companies show the decoder pictures, sizes also.

Since you did not mention sound, assuming non sound.

Rich

 

[LIRRs]

The ESU LokPilot is an excellent non-sound decoder with motor control second to none.  If you are after a sound decoder again ESU is your source with LokSound decoders with many sound options.

All the best.

Reinhard

[Anonymous]

wcu boy

I looked at TCS's web site for a sound decoder; however, I was confused a little. The engine is a GP38, but the installation files did not allude to it being a plug and play installation. One GP38 installation was a hardwire, non-DCC ready while the other installation was a board replacement.

Look farther down on the list, the installation may be similar to the silver series GP40s.

Is your locomotive listed here: http://www.atlasrr.com/holoco/hogp38406.htm?

You should probably remove the shell to check for space for a speaker.  (not sure where they go on the gold series).

The WOW 101 Diesel decoder with a T-series harness would be 1 option.  Another TCS option would be the product listed on the TCS home page.  Its made to replace the entire board (AK-MB1 w/WOW 121).

[jjdamnit]

Hello All,

For a simple 2-function output, non-sound, decoder I recommend the Digitrax DH126PS.

If you need more function outputs there is the 6-function, non-sound, DH166PS decoder.

Both have a factory installed 9-pin NMRA plug for ease of installation.

If you need longer wire harnesses check out the DH126P or DH166P; 2- or 6-function decoders.

Both are feature packed at a reasonable price. Check out eBay for the best prices.

Hope this helps.