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First Locomotive - DCC and Sound - Questions Getting started
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New member 26 posts JohnnyRockets New member 26 posts
JohnnyRockets

Hi all,

It's time to buy that first locomotive.

I'd like to get one with DCC and sound built in.

To get the sound to work, do I have to install speakers anywhere in the locomotive, or are they usually already there?

Also, what about sound in rolling stock?  Is this common?  I'd like to pursue this as well.


Thanks,


JR
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Nick Santo amsnick MRH Advertiser and MRH Author 2,817 posts
Nick Santo amsnick

Hi JR

DCC with sound is what you get if you buy that.  There are a lot of DCC sound locomotives available now.  A lot of times there are DCC with sound and DCC ready.  The DCC ready ones will need a decoder and a speaker and don’t cost as much.  As you start to choose the manufacturer of decoders, the DCC ready allows you to not buy a factory installed decoder but add the decoder and speaker that you prefer.  

This explanation is correct and with time you will probably gyrate to a decoder/speaker sound package you like and want to stay with it.

The next step is to figure out which DCC system you want to power your layout.  They are not able to be mixed, like PC and Apple.  Now, all decoders work on all systems.  Systems do not work with other systems.

Don’t hesitate to ask questions.

Enjoy!

Nick

Nick

https://nixtrainz.com/ Home of the Decoder Buddy

Full disclosure: I am the inventor of the Decoder Buddy and I sell it via the link above.
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JohnnyRockets New member 26 posts
JohnnyRockets

@Nick

Hi Nick,

Thanks for the help!

What about sound on rolling stock?  Is this common?  What is needed here?

 

Thanks, JR
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Nick Santo amsnick MRH Advertiser and MRH Author 2,817 posts
Nick Santo amsnick

@ JR

Haven’t tried sound in cars yet but should be very straight forward.  

In Vermont currently only the locomotives make noise!   

Nick

Nick

https://nixtrainz.com/ Home of the Decoder Buddy

Full disclosure: I am the inventor of the Decoder Buddy and I sell it via the link above.
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lexon Prolific poster 1,211 posts
lexon

DCC and souns

Bachmann has a "Sound Value" line for diesel and steam. Completely equipped if it says "Sound Value".

If it says DCC on Board, no sound.

DCC ready, no decoder or speaker.

Some might say, DCC sound.

Probably the most cost effective if you know how to shop online.

Two companies I like are The Favorite Spot and Micro Mark. There are others.

You will need a DCC system though they will run on a DC power pack but not all sounds usable. I would not bother with the Bachmann EZ Command.

I have used Bachmann locos for some years.

SoundTraxx has Tsunami Sound Car sound decoders.

Google both for links.

Rich
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