Adding sound to a NCE or TCS decoder?

I have been searching a lot of threads but haven't found much information on adding sound to a NCE or TCS decoder. Can this be done or is it better go with Digitrax, MRC, Soundtraxx, etc. for sound?

Best regards,
Brian

 

Brian,

Unless the decoder has sound built in from the factory, you cannot add sound to a decoder.

 

What scale are you working in? that makes a difference. Going to be really hard to add another decoder to a N scale Engine unless you put the sound in a trailing car

Search for sound decoder threads and you will find what most use vs what most like. Most sound decoders have motor and function control and can replace existing decoders. if you are looking to simply add-on another decoder then look for a sound only decoder. tsunami and few others make them. or go big budget and look at the soundtraxx dsp system

 

Thanks for the information.

I am working in HO scale. I wasn't sure if you could add a sound decoder to one of the function outputs of the NCE or TCS decoder. So the NCE and TCS decoders are meant for those who want control of the motor and lights but no sound? Anyone have any insight as to why NCE and TCS doesn't offer sound? It seems like it would be a good option for those who like the decoders but also want sound.

Best regards,
Brian

 

It could be the quality of sound from Soundtraxx and ESU would be hard to compete in that arena.

 

MRC, QSI, Digitrax also have sound.
The question sounds like one fellow who said the components for sound module he figured cost $15.00. Why are sound decoder so expensive? Lack of knowledge.
Developing sound decoders is expensive because of recording and modifying sounds that are available. Some companies modify the sounds digitally usingsoftware.
Don't forget, DCC and DCC sound is quite new and evolving.
BLI sells locos with DC motor control and a sound decoder for those who run just a DC power pack.
Those who want to run the loco with a DCC controller, put in a motor decoder.
There are many different ways to do DCC and DCC sound.
I have a HO Mantua with a DZ125 in the loco and a old SoundTraxx LC decoder in the tender and both run fine together. It just takes experience and knowledge of DCC It will come as you learn more about DCC.
I have removed non sound decoders and installed sound decoders. The old decoder will find use somewhere or sell to someone who does not want sound. The decoder can run a motor in a turntable as an example if it satisfies the current requirements. It can be used to operate layout wiring.


RIch