This project started innocently enough, add DCC sound to an Athearn RTR CF7. I failed to explore the unexplained feelings of foreboding as I removed the loco from the packaging: static grass laid flat and Super Trees shed their ground foam foliage. Passengers in the station fell off the benches.

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Thanks for the suggestions on the previous blog on configuring three 16 mm diameter tablet speakers. I am applying some of those suggestions in this blog piece. The focus is installing three 13mm X 18mm X 13mm and one 11mm X 15mm x 12mm speakers each in two Athearn RTR diesels using recently unemployed Tsunami GN1000 decoders.

 The ESU website is an excellent resource for product information and installation assistance for the Select family of decoders. If you are using the LokProgrammer V4.0, you will find its support literature there, too.

The ESU LokProgrammer speeds the task as it employs macros to set some functions which otherwise would require multiple CV entry. Similar to Decoder Pro, which also works, it interfaces  through your computer once you make the easy connections and download the free software.

The project started innocently enough, upgrading several Stewart F-units to I-M bodies. The Kato mechanisms are excellent but the Stewart shell cannot compare with current highly detailed offerings. I changed the original shells out to those offered by Inter-Mountain and with some weathering, you almost do not notice the I-M’s slightly incorrect nose profile.

The project began when I wanted to maximize the sound level and fidelity of sugar cube speakers to be installed in an early 2000 vintage Athearn RTR SD40-2.  I assembled a selection of the familiar rectangular shaped speakers from An Affair With Trains in Phoenix. I also became aware of a round version while watching a YouTube video by Laurie McLean, an MMR in Australia. He made reference to George at TVW Miniatures in WI, so I contacted him. The website is www.tvwminiatures.com/. I purchased three with housings as my trial.

Chris, Jim, and I host the Model Railroad Hobbyist Podcast available through links at the MRH site as well as on iTunes. Since the first program in mid-2010, we have uploaded approximately 65 episodes. Our show also has its own Facebook page, logically called the Model Railroad Hobbyist Podcast.

Please use either channel to leave comments and suggestions. We look forward to your thoughts or insights on the subjects and interviews we conduct for the podcast. If it's interesting and appropriate, we may even mention it on the show.

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