I ran to my "local" train store today and walked by the cases of N scale locos and rolling stock. I glanced over and stopped dead in my tracks when I saw the new Athearn Clinchfield (I'm in the SE...) 4-6-6-4. I immediately asked to see it in action... A M A Z I N G! The detail was very respectable. The sound was awesome. I posted this topic because it was just a year ago when the first mass production (sort of) N scale locos started coming out with sound from Precision Craft. If we can get great sound in N it is only a matter of time before we start getting great sound in production Z locos. I can't image how they'll get the speakers down to Z and maintain the sound quality but a year ago I didn't think they could do it in N. If you get a chance check one of these new locos out you need to do it. Very cool. PS - I was told that people are experiencing some issues with the locos at medium to high scale speeds (mechanical, not sound or electronic) in case any of you wanted to run out and get one. You may want to hold off until more feedback is in.
We've put sound into tenders, B units & freight cars. There are many sources of small enough speakers thanks to mobile phones, laptops, etc. One way to get a fuller sound is to utilize psychoacoustics the way that most modern speaker systems are built around. Only higher frequencies are localized so if you use the loco to only produce the hiss of steam and the "ting" of the bell, you mind will be drawn towards that sound. Then, place speakers under the layout that produce the mid range and a central subwoofer for the lowest rumbling effects and you mind does not know.
Yes, that would work well for Z. Bass under the layout and highs inside the loco There is enough room in Z, just need to get the sound decoders a bit smaller. I would love an NP challenger in Z, and the tender could hold a great sound system!There is room for a sound system in the AZL Cab Forward's tender
I just recieved my copy of "Model Railroad News" and it's on the front cover and I agree, it's right up there with the brass ones I've seen!! The real thing about it though is that it has a wireless control feature with a remote that controls forward, backward, bell, etc.!!:wow: But only on DC power. Crazy, huh?!:teeth:
I always questioned myself if it would be possible to putt a sound decoder in the tender of a GS4. Would it fit as well?
Yes Rob, sound will fit in the GS tender as well. They are so big, and the small LokSound Micro will fit, but you need the small speakers.
I have a friend in our "local" N Scale Club who has done some insane work with sound in steam, diesel, and boxcars. The smallest speakers I've found will fit nicely inside most closed (box cars, hoppers with loads) Z rolling stock but you have to connect at least two cars together so you can put a decoder inside one and the speaker in the other. We've looked into it but we just need some power pick-up trucks with metal wheels to get the project moving forward. To be honest, it's a low priority with us right now but if we ever get it done I'll be sure to post with pics and how-to's...
