As the model railroading hobby advances, sound is becoming significantly more prominent in model locomotives.
From the indistinguishable sound of a steam whistle, to the roar of a GE locomotive in full throttle, sound is a growing aspect of the hobby that adds more realism, and fun, to your models and layout.
However, not all locomotives can be purchased from the factory with sound. Often times, installing a DCC and sound decoder into a locomotive is necessary. It is not always seen as an easy task. Removing the shell, rewiring the locomotive, and modifying an expensive model may seem intimidating at first.
With this class, led by your instructor Josh Clark, you’ll learn everything you need to install decoders with confidence.
Beginning with some background information, such as what DCC decoders are, in addition to helpful skills, such as how to professionally solder, we will begin by laying a foundation to start the installation.
We’ll also cover other relevant topics, such as how to install LED lights, how to install and maximize the performance of the speaker, and how to install a capacitor to keep your locomotives running over dirty track. Furthermore, we will talk about choosing the best types of decoders, speakers, and capacitors that will be best for your own installation.
You’ll see two specific installation examples in the class. The first is an installation of an ESU LokSound decoder into a diesel locomotive, and the second installation is a TCS WowSound decoder into a steam locomotive.
In addition to the detailed video instruction, you’ll also get a helpful Class Guide PDF that you can print out and use as a reference to help work through the key aspects of adding sound and light into your system, as well as a supplemental PDF that will help you source speakers, decoders, and LED lights.
Bonus materials available after purchase
Class Guide PDF
Download and print this detailed guide as a reference for the key aspects of adding DCC and sound to locomotives
Class Supplement PDF
Use this handy reference for help in sourcing decoders, speakers, and LED lights for your system
Video: Meet Your Instructor
Download this short video to meet your class instructor, Josh Clark
How do I know what the Class covers?
Every Class has a free Preview video you can watch, to give you a flavor of the Instructor and the skills or project that will be covered. In addition, the Overview tab includes a thorough written description of the Class. And finally, each Class Session has a brief written summary of the content in that Session, including the length of each Session video. You will get a good feel for the Class content by reviewing these resources.
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First you should decide that the Class is what you want. Review the Class Preview video and the various written descriptions of the Class and each Session before you purchase, so you have a good understanding of the Class content. When you’re ready to purchase and gain access to the Class, simply click the “Add to Cart” button, and proceed through the Checkout process.
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Once you purchase any Class, within the Class viewing page, you’ll have access to post a question, comment or tip in the Class Q&A Resource area. This is not a “live chat,” but your Class Instructor and MRA contributors will answer posted questions and provide tips regularly. You can also view other Class participants’ questions and input to take part in this virtual dialogue among others who have taken the Class and are willing to share tips, answers, or ideas.
Can I print out Class details?
For any Bonus Material that is a PDF Download, yes you can. Just click on the icon/button for the Bonus element you want, and print with your local printer.
What are PDF downloads?
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Your Class video content is best when viewed on a computer manufactured in the past couple of years with a good broadband Internet connection (not dialup). We also highly recommend using the latest version of Firefox, Safari, or Chrome as your Internet Browser, though recent versions of Internet Explorer will work as well. The recommended screen resolution is 1024 x 768 or larger.
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Can I get a refund if I don’t like the Class?
Because you’ll have full access to all the materials and content that is presented in the Class immediately, we can’t offer a refund after purchase. Please review the Class Preview video and the various written descriptions of the Class and each Session before you purchase, so you have a good understanding of the Class content.
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If your question is about the Class content, please use the Class Discussion benefit to ask your question online – and you'll receive feedback from the Class Instructor. Even your fellow Class participants may jump in to offer tips and advice from their experience. If you have other questions or need help, you can email us at modelrailroadacademy@program-director.net or call us toll-free, at 1-855-208-7399. Service Representatives will be available Monday-Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Central time, excluding normal holidays.
