sound decoder for my D8-40C

[N-Railer]

totally new and a little overwhelmed by the "new" dcc tech...I have purchased a digitrax decoder (DZ123PS) for my new loco but I also want to add sound...do the sound decoders act as a "decoder" as well or do I need to install both? where do I begin with a sound decoder? very overwhelming?  by the way I am not afraid to solder etc. I just don't know where to begin, besides buying the dcc ready loco (which I did)

[Inder]

Hello N-Railer,

Sound decoders come in both versions.  You can get decoders that do sound only as well as decoders that do sound and motion.  You can also get mobile decoders without sound which is what you have.

Personally I think a decoder that does both is the way to go as far as installation time and space in your loco. 

The only reason why I think someone would get a separate decoder for each function is if they have limited space and would like to add a sound "only" decoder on the tender of a steamer or on another loco running a consist.

Here are a few links that have good prices and lots of decoders.  It seems like "Loksound" decoders come as a kit for specific locos.  So rather than having to do the work of figuring out which decoder and speaker combo would work for you these guys sell kits for specific locos.  I haven't used them but they have lots of different kits. 

Once I find which decoder I want I put the item number in google to find the best prices.

http://www.charlestondigitaltrains.com/
http://www.ulrichmodels.biz/servlet/StoreFront?sfs=2af835e3

[Inder]

I think this kit may be for your loco

http://www.charlestondigitaltrains.com/thumbnail.asp?offset=0&deep=2&cid=86

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