Does anyone know where I can still purchase a Sierra sound unit #831027 or 831046 for a USA SD-70 ? I realize they aren’t made anymore, but thought there might be some still around. If i can’t find one is the Phoenix sound unit the next best thing?
Terry Jackson
Terry,
If you are battery R/C then, depending on what the R/C is, you should consider the Phoenix P5 +P5T.
The Phoenix is not the next best thing. It IS the best thing. All different manufacturers have their strong points but I find the Soundtraxx units to be anemic for outdoor use. They only put out 1 watt of sound. That limits your speaker choices and total volume. The Phoenix units are about 6 watts and are capable if irritating your neighbors if you turn them up all the way. Also, Phoenix is programmable and more customizable than Soundtraxx. By the way, I own some of both systems.
Tony I am using battery power and the Aristo TE onboard unit for the SD70
Use the Phoenix PB9. It’s designed to do what you want.
Terry, Bill,
There are some major differences between the PB9 and P5 w/P5T. ( I have not bought either yet but have done a lot of investigating as I plan on purchasing soon)
The PB9 replaced the 2K2 but only has 4 trigger inputs instead of the 6 the 2k2 had. It also has a battery to allow sounds to be played when using variable voltage track power and voltage is low or shutoff so you will get shutdown sounds. There have been serious issues with the PB9 and the battery charging circuit. You should check with Phoenix after purchasing one to make sure it has the newest firmware ans software. They can check via the serial number.
The P5 is mainly for DCC and has two chuff trigger inputs which can be reprogramed. The P5T adds motor inputs for speed sensing and 6 trigger inputs for sounds. No back up battery. Works well with constant DC power like constant track power or battery power. Best thing is it is about $20 cheaper.
The only reason I can see for buying the PB9 is if you are using variable voltage track power and want shutdown sounds when you power off or reverse direction.
If you want the max sound triggers and are using constant DC power save the $20 and go with the P5/P5T.
Just to clarify, are you using the Revolution TE or one of the older TEs?