SoundBytes: Train Talk from Milepost 141

In this episode, we welcome our new Support Technician, David Kupratis , to the SoundTraxx team! We’re excited to have him on board and look forward to seeing what he brings to the position. For this week’s model show-off, George brings two MOPACAtlas U30C locomotives that he has upgraded with Blunami and finished up for his coal trains. He also discusses his collection of 45–50 ExactRail Missouri Pacific 3737 hoppers that will be a part of this coal train. Tech Tip: Learn what Dynamic Digital Exhaust (DDE) is and how to quickly set it up using the Blunami App. #SoundTraxx #SoundBytes #Blunami #ModelRailroading#ModelTrains #DCC #DynamicDigitalExhaust #DDE #AtlasTrains #MissouriPacific

George is slacking this week—he hasn’t finished a project toshow off! But he makes up for it with some special guests from the ColoradoRPM. In this episode, George talks with the Colorado RPM teamabout the upcoming show schedule, what you can expect at the event, and why you should come join us. We’re looking forward to seeing everyone and having a great time at this year’s event! #SoundTraxx #SoundBytes #ModelRailroad #ModelRailroading#ModelTrains #ColoradoRPM #RailroadHobby #DCC #ModelRailroadCommunity

George takes us along for a recent trip to Albuquerque,where he got to see the 2026 Big Steam locomotive, ride the Rail Runner, and check out a uniquely painted Santa Fe Southern Railway locomotive. He also has photos and run-by videos to share from the trip. There’s no single class that teaches you everything you needto know about model railroading, which is why SoundTraxx creates videos to help you learn and tackle decoder installations with confidence. It is important to use the right tools and materials when installing decoders, including rosin-core solder and electronics-grade flux . Never use plumber’s flux or Tix brand flux on model train electronics. We recommend Chip Quik SMD291 flux for electronics work. They also discuss an important speaker-matching tip: Makesure your speaker can handle the output of your decoder’s audio amplifier. If your decoder has a 2-watt audio amplifier, you need a speaker—or combination of speakers—capable of safely handling that power. Using a 1-watt or smallerspeaker that can't handle the amplifier’s output can damage the speaker and potentially the decoder. In some cases, multiple speakers wired in series can be used to handle the power output. And finally, we have some bittersweet news. Tom announcesthat he is leaving SoundTraxx and moving back to Illinois to return to retirement and spend more time taking care of himself. We’re going to miss having Tom here, but we’re grateful for everything he has contributed to SoundTraxx and wish him all the best in this next chapter. #SoundTraxx #ModelRailroading #ModelTrains #DCC #ModelTrainTips #DecoderInstallation #Railroading #BigSteam #RailRunner #SantaFe

George and Tom are back from the National Train Show withstories to tell! Tom shows off an Athearn Genesis Santa Fe F7, featuring a Blunami decoder and Mini Cube Speakers. Since this model will run on a DC layout, Tom also shares the custom braking rate he’s using and explains how Blunami gives you many of the benefits of DCC without requiring you to upgradeyour entire layout. The guys also talk about one of the simple but powerfulfeatures of the Blunami App: giving each locomotive a unique nickname. It’s an easy way to keep your roster organized and make it even easier to identify yourlocomotives. FAQ: Why do my LEDs work before I put the shell on, butstop working after I put it on? If your lights work during testing but stop working once thelocomotive shell is installed, the problem may not be your decoder. George and Tom explain how fragile the wires on some small LEDs can be and how easily they can break during final assembly. They also share best practices to help prevent broken wires and other installation-related problems. SoundTraxx has an extensive quality-control process beforeour decoders leave the factory, so many problems encountered during installation are not caused by the decoder. That’s why it’s important to dosome basic troubleshooting before sending a decoder in for repair—it may not actually need to be repaired! Another common installation problem is using the wrong typeof flux. Always use electronics-grade flux when soldering to a decoder. Flux designed for other applications, such as some hardware-store or brass-model fluxes, can contain acids or other chemicals that may damage decoder components and eventually cause failures. George and Tom explain why the right flux matters anddiscuss the type of flux we recommend for decoder installations, including ChipQuik SMD291.

George and Tom kick off this episode by talking about George's recent Disney vacation before looking ahead to the train shows and events where you can meet the SoundTraxx team later this summer. Tom shares his latest project—a custom-painted Athearn Genesis F7B equipped with a Tsunami2 decoder. The discussion turns to the unique role of B units, how they were used in real life, and the features that make them an interesting addition to any diesel consist. Whether you're planning to attend a train show or looking for inspiration for your next locomotive project, there's something for every model railroader in this episode. 🎧 Listen now and let us know in the comments: What consists do you run on your layout? #SoundTraxx #SoundBytes #ModelRailroad #ModelRailroading #Tsunami2 #AthearnGenesis #FUnit #DCC #TrainPodcast #ModelTrains

George and Tom kick off this episode with a look at theupcoming train shows and events where you can meet the SoundTraxx team over the next few months. Tom shares the latest progress on his U-boat project,highlighting the custom details and upgrades he's adding to bring the model to life. George then showcases a unique locomotive project—a customized 2-8-2Broadway Limited Mikado paired with a brass tender that's been adapted to fit the model. The locomotive is equipped with a Blunami BLU-2200 decoder, four Mini Cube speakers, upgraded lighting, and numerous custom details. Tech Tip: Before installing any decoder, check yourmodel's stall current. George explains why measuring stall current is an essential step to help prevent decoder damage and ensure you choose the right decoder for your locomotive. Listen now, and don't forget to subscribe so you never missan episode of SoundBytes: Train Talk from Milepost 141 . #SoundTraxx #SoundBytesPodcast #ModelRailroading#ModelTrains #DCC #Blunami #Tsunami2 #TrainShow #RailroadModeling#ModelRailroad #HOScale #NScale

George and Tom are getting ready for the Fourth of July bydiscussing how various railroads are doing the same. George also unveils his long-awaited mystery project—a beautifully customized Proto 2000 GP18 painted in a striking Missouri Pacific 1976 Bicentennial scheme. Equipped with a Blunami decoder, upgraded lighting, and scratch-built details, this one-of-a-kind locomotive has an incredible story behind it. The guys talk about the inspiration, customization process, and the history of the prototype. For this episode's Tech Tip, George explains why good wiremanagement is essential during any decoder installation. A broken wire caused unexpected behavior in his project, but because the wiring was neat and organized, he was able to quickly diagnose and repair the issue. #SoundTraxx #Blunami #ModelRailroad #ModelTrains #DCC#ModelRailroading #TrainTalk #Proto2000 #MissouriPacific #Bicentennial #GP18#Railroading #HOScale #TrainHobby #OnBoardWithSoundTraxx

This week on SoundBytes: Train Talk from Milepost 141,George and take you behind the scenes to show how SoundTraxx decoders are designed and assembled right here in Durango, Colorado. Planning a trip throughtown? We offer scheduled facility tours, so be sure to reach out if you’ll bein the area. Tom also shows off his Missouri Pacific GP15 from Athearn,upgraded with a Tsunami2 decoder, added detail parts, new speakers, LEDs, and custom function mapping. Tech Tip of the Week: Don’t be afraid to change CVs.You cannot damage a SoundTraxx decoder by experimenting with CV settings. Our decoders are designed with safeguards that prevent this. You may end up withsettings you don’t like, but you can always reset the decoder and keep fine-tuning until it sounds and performs exactly the way you want. Listen now and join the conversation! #SoundTraxx #SoundBytesPodcast #Tsunami2 #Blunami#ModelRailroad #DCC #ModelTrains #HOScale #RailroadModeling #TrainTalk #DurangoColorado #Athearn #GP15 #ModelRailroading #TrainPodcast

Tom shares his custom-painted Athearn Genesis GP15-1featuring upgraded lighting, steps, wheels, decals, and a Tsunami2 decoder.George’s mystery project is still underway, but the reveal is getting closer —and it will be worth the wait. The guys also break down one of the most common installationquestions: how to identify which LED is wired to which decoder output. Ifyou’ve ever been confused while wiring lights or troubleshooting functions,this episode is packed with helpful tips. #SoundTraxx #Tsunami2 #ModelRailroading #DCC #ModelTrains#Athearn #GP151 #DecoderInstall #HOScale #RailroadModeling #TrainLayout#ModelRailroadPodcast

George and Tom talk about the limited-edition SoundTraxxswag you can collect, plus our new loyalty program for shoppers atSoundTraxx.com — the more you buy, the more you save! Tom shares updates on a GP15 custom project he’s beenworking on, while George drops hints about his next layout project. Think youcan figure out what it is from the photos he shares? Let us know your guessesin the comments section! #SoundTraxx #ModelRailroading #ModelTrains #TrainLayout#HOScale #DCC #Tsunami2 #Blunami #RailroadModeling #Locomotive #TrainHobby#CustomLocomotive #GP15 #ModelTrainCommunity

Tom finally wraps up his Ziegler Coal NW2—fully painted,detailed, and ready to run. He walks through his Tsunami2 decoder install,sharing insights on detailing, painting, and dialing in performance. You’llalso see how he set up automatic lighting and fine-tuned deadband for smooth,prototypical operation. Meanwhile, George showcases a Rapido E8 upgraded withBlunami, diving into Echo and Reverb. He breaks down what each effect does,demonstrates how they transform any sound, and explains the CVs behind themagic. Plus, he shows just how simple it is to customize everything using theBlunami App. #ModelTrains #DCCSound #Tsunami2 #Blunami #ModelRailroading #TrainSound#HOScale #DecoderInstall #RailroadModeling #SoundTraxx #TrainTech#HobbyElectronics #ModelTrainLayout

Tom takes on an older Atlas U23B, walking through plans torepaint, detail, and upgrade the decoder. George shares his MOPAC Proto 2000 GP38 equipped with Blunami—fully detailed and running beautifully at slow speeds. From there, the conversation shifts to Dynamic DigitalExhaust (DDE), SoundTraxx’s exclusive feature that automatically adjusts your locomotive’s throttle based on load and grade. They break down how DDE works and walk through how to properly calibrate it on Tsunami2 and Blunami-equipped models. #ModelRailroading #SoundTraxx #Blunami #Tsunami2 #DCCSound#ModelTrains #TrainTech #Locomotive #RailroadModeling #DecoderInstall#TrainHobby #DynamicDigitalExhaust #DDE CV Programming, DCC Myths and More with SoundTraxx(Webinar 6): https://youtu.be/lRJFJSHwtuk?si=HcW9qZrblqO_b0_x

George sits down with the team from Spring Creek ModelTrains, a truly unique hobby shop redefining what it means to serve model railroaders. While they do have a physical location—more of a “shoppable warehouse”—their reach goes far beyond four walls. From traveling to train shows as a mobile hobby shop to maintaining a strong online presence, Spring Creek connects with customers wherever they are. With multiple ways to shop, they’ve built an impressiveinventory covering just about everything in model railroading, including a wide range of SoundTraxx products. Tune in as they share their journey in the hobby, how their business has evolved, and what makes their approach stand out. Plus, George wraps things up with a quick dive into one ofSoundTraxx’s most underrated tools—our manuals—and how they can help you get the most out of your decoder.

Tom shares his newly painted Walthers NW2, now upgraded with a Tsunami2 TSU-N18 decoder. George has been working on a Rapido GP38, installing a Blunami decoder and adding new LEDs for improved lighting effects and motor control. They also discuss how to access the full range of SoundTraxxdecoder features using the higher function keys on your DCC throttle—or easily through the Blunami App. Your DCC system is the gateway to these features, so understanding how to use it ensures you get the most out of your SoundTraxx decoders. Related Videos: Introduction to DCC Operation & CV Programming (Webinar9): https://youtu.be/-w5ttfthhNk

George has been on the road! He recently visited Doc’sCaboose in Kansas City, Missouri, for a meet-and-greet, where he had the opportunity to operate on several incredible layouts. He shares stories from the trip along with photos from the operating sessions. Back in the workshop, Tom has been painting his Phase 4Ziegler Coal train and walks through his process, complete with progress photos. George also dives into a new project: upgrading a Rapido C30-7 with Blunami. He explains how to work around Rapido’s proprietary motherboard to gain full access to the lighting functions and get the most out of the installation. The episode wraps up with a practical discussion on choosingthe right decoder board format for your model. They cover key considerations like motor stall current, speaker wattage, and available space inside the locomotive. When it comes to selecting the perfect sound profile, SoundTraxx offers a range of tools on our website, including a Decoder Selector, Sound Selection Reference lists, Sound Samples, and more to help you make the right choice. Helpful Webpages: Decoder Selector: https://soundtraxx.com/reference/decoder-selector Choosing the Right Diesel Sound: https://soundtraxx.com/reference/choosing-the-right-diesel-sound/ Sound Selection Reference Lists: https://soundtraxx.com/ssr/ Sound Samples: https://soundtraxx.com/reference/sound-samples Related Videos: Rehab My Loco: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwWuwya-crVYBbyNyogz_tHG3wIsL45of

George is back with his BNSF GEVO, upgraded with a Blunamidecoder that he has been using for his walkthrough of the Blunami App. This impressive model features 20 added LEDs for outstanding lighting effects, making it the perfect teaching tool. The guys emphasize why it’s so important to read the manual and understand how each CV functions—many CVs control multiple features, and without knowing it, you could accidentally disable something you want to keep. Tom even drops a hint about what he’ll be bringing to the next podcast. Later, they welcome special guest Tom from Southeast Hobbies. A frequent traveler to trade shows with an impressive mobile setup, Tom shares insights from the show circuit, talks SoundTraxx products, and explains how quickly they move off the shelves. He also shares his firsthand experience running SoundTraxx decoders—especially the fun and realism of manually notching up your locomotive before it starts to move.

George and Tom recap the 2026 Amherst Railway Society Show! Despite plenty of snow, the turnout was strong, and the show was a great success. Tom shares his plans for a Kato GP35 Phase I B, debating whether to make it a GP28 or a GP35M and install a Blunami decoder. Meanwhile, George dives into his latest project: a Rapido E8. He removed the factory red class lights, repurposed them as a cab light, and added Blunami for full sound and control. The two break down how Rapido configured the class lights, Mars light, and emergency light—and how George plans to separate and customize their control. He also demonstrates how to program a cab light to automatically illuminate when the locomotive comes to a stop—a feature you can set up with any lighting effect on any Tsunami2 or Blunami decoder. Plus, Tom chased the RGS No. 20 coal-fired locomotive and shares some great footage from the trip. Snowy railroading, decoder upgrades, lighting tips, and prototype inspiration—it’s all in this episode. Related Videos: Operations 101: Class Lights (Episode 9): https://youtu.be/l0i5vqmFYWM

George brings in a Missouri Pacific brass model caboose he painted, upgraded with new trucks, and outfitted with a SoundCar. Then Tom walks you through the correct way to reset the decoder, highlighting a crucial step that’s been missed a lot lately: cycling the power. Tune in for hands-on modeling tips and decoder know-how you can use right away.

George and Tom are back after the holidays and talkingtrains once again! This week, they dive into layout building and Tom’s plans for a new home layout, with a focus on how real railroads operate—and how you can model those same practices through thoughtful layout construction and locomotive operation. They also highlight the beautiful work of Charlie Duckworth,sharing photos of his impressive layout for those watching the video version of the podcast. The conversation then shifts to upcoming shows, including Prototype Rails in Cocoa Beach, Florida on January 8, 2026, and Amherst in Massachusetts on January 24. To wrap things up, George and Tom get practical with adiscussion on wire management, exploring different options to keep your installations clean, organized, and reliable. Related Videos: Wire Management with SoundTraxx: https://youtu.be/PtOP5-fmKuE

Tom kicks things off with an undecorated Bluford Shops Missouri Pacific caboose, sharing plans to paint it, add lighting, and install either a SoundCar decoder or a BLU-1100. George then brings in his “Rehab My Loco” Athearn SD40 to show how far a model can be elevated with some hands-on work and a new decoder. The conversation wraps up with a visit from Wes at Just Trains in California, where they talk about the hobby, running a local hobby shop, and how Blunami makes it easier than ever for beginners to get started.