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Larger Speaker for New Bachmann S4 Locos and rolling stock
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New member 17 posts locobreath New member 17 posts
locobreath

 

Background Information:

I am primarily a model builder but recently became interested in DCC and sound decoders. So I am new to the current technologies. I recently purchased a Bachmann Sound Value S4 and NCE Power Cab. The engine runs great but I am a bit disappointed in the sound quality of the prime mover (There is not enough bass). I was planning on adding a full-functioning Soundtraxx but do not want to invest more money in the loco if the sound quality does not improve. 

Question:

Has anyone tried to put a larger speaker in the shell of the S4. Can this be done without major surgery?  Does the sound quality improve? What is the largest size speaker I could use? Thanks for your response.

 

 

 

http://neiljharwicke.blogspot.com/
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Nelsonb111563 Moderator 2,270 posts
Nelsonb111563

Take a look.

Here is the exploded view of the S-4.  As you can see, there is not much room for improvement without some major surgery!  I have the RS3 with sound and it also suffers from lack of bass, but then again, we are talking HO scale locomotives with very limited space for additional or larger speakers.  Bachmann has actually done quite a good job on bringing the budget minded modeler a very good running locomotive with DCC and Sound for about the price of a stand alone sound decoder.  

http://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/dwg/dwgs/HO_ALCO_S4_(DCC_SOUND).pdf

Nelson Beaudry,  Principle/CEO

Kennebec, Penobscot and Northern RR Co.
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locobreath New member 17 posts
locobreath

Thanks Nelson

Thanks for the input. I did see the diagram that came with the engine. I thought if someone already made the conversion it would be a little easier for me. I'll put  off working on the engine until I get more experience with decoder installation. Until then, my next purchases will be small steamers with tenders.

http://neiljharwicke.blogspot.com/
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duckdogger Super User 808 posts
duckdogger

Another thought

It is possible an isobaric arrangement as used by Atlas would work. Two same sized speakers in an angled mount (down firing) wired out of phase so they are pushing and pulling air in unison. The mount might involve removing some of the vertical walls of the weight but it should be minimal. The mounting itself would be styrene and I would secure it with small applications of silicone bath sealant. Lastly, check our advertiser RailMaster Hobbies as Jeff has a very good selection of high performance speakers with enclosures. Example: DS1425-8 - 16mm x 27mm x 9 mm, 8 ohm. Paul
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locobreath New member 17 posts
locobreath

Thanks Paul

I'll keep a copy of your response for when I'm a little more experienced in this. But I did check out Railmaster Hobby and signed up for a newsletter.

http://neiljharwicke.blogspot.com/
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