Matt: I would rather use a decoder that functions extremely well motor wise. The Soundtraxx DSD decoders don't fit that criteria in my opinion. The decoder of first choice for me is a Lenz decoder with BEMF. When I have to use a plugNplay decoder for Kato loco's, Atlas diesels or IM FT's I use Digitrax decoders with BEMF function. I had my experiences with the Soundtraxx DSD decoder and I wasn't impressed with it's performance running the loco and I didn't care for the limited sound functions on that decoder. The Soundtraxx DSX sound only decoder is the best option we have at this point in time for sound in N scale. Stay cool and run steam.....
PSGuy1790. I got my decoders this week and got them installed yesterday and today. The Soundtraxx DSD steam unit I put in a Bachman 2-8-0. I am pleased w/ the operation and motion control of the decoder. It runs great. I am also pleased w/ the volume. That sucker is LOUD! It is a barebones motion/sound decoder offering very little other than chugga-chugga, whistle, and bell. The quality of the bell is pretty good. The whistle is also good for the engine I am running it in. The LokSound: This decoder has an amazing control on the engine motion. I put it in a 2-6-6-2 Bachman mallet. The engine runs great. The Loksound whistle is good, the chuff is perfect for the multicylinder mallet. The bell stinks. Sounds like a kids toy. And the volume is putrid. I have the volume CV's jacked up to the max and it is hardly audible. I have the speaker installed like a champ and ample holes drilled in the coal load to get the sound out. As you predicted, the DSD did hit a spot on my track that had gotten by my "cleaning" eye and it "sputtered" there. Once I took care of it.. .the decoder works great. I think though before I put sound in any other engines, I am going to wait for the new line from Soundtraxx to hit the street.. as well as see what the Digitrax sound shakes out to be. Good thread.
Kitbash: That's a wise decision. The new line of sound decoders will be interesting to say the least. The DSD N scale decoders are not the greatest and thats why I was apprehensive about the HO version. I'm glad you're happy with it although it can't compare to the LokSound which is superior to the DSD Soundtraxx decoder. Yes, this has been a great thread. Stay cool and run steam.....
