SoundBytes: Train Talk from Milepost 141 podcast artwork

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SoundBytes: Train Talk from Milepost 141

Welcome aboard! At SoundTraxx, our staff are modelers just like you. Join us as we share our journey through the captivating world of model railroading. Here we will share our knowledge, experiences, and projects with you. We will also chat with our friends in the hobby and the railroading industry to keep you up-to-date on all things trains. Hop on board and embark on an exciting adventure with us. Everyone is welcome from seasoned collectors to newcomers!

  1. 47

    Built in Durango: Decoder Tours, a Custom GP15, and Why CVs Can't Break Your SoundTraxx Decoder (S3E12)

    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

  2. 46

    Custom GP15-1 Upgrades, Mystery Projects & LED Wiring Tips (S3E11)

    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

  3. 45

    Collectible Swag, Loyalty Rewards & New Train Projects! (S3E10)

    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

  4. 44

    Bringing Models to Life: NW2 Build, Tsunami2 Install, Echo & Reverb (S3E9)

    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

  5. 43

    Loco Rehabs, Slow-Speed Performance & Mastering Dynamic Digital Exhaust (DDE) (S3E8)

    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

  6. 42

    On the Rails & On the Road: Inside Spring Creek Model Trains (S3 E7)

    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.

  7. 41

    Unlocking Decoder Features: Throttle Tips, Lighting Upgrades & Two New Installs (S3 E6)

    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

  8. 40

    Road Trips, Rapido Upgrades & Choosing the Right Decoder (S3 E5)

    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-selectorChoosing 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

  9. 39

    Blunami in Action & On the Road with Southeast Hobbies (S3 E4)

    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.

  10. 38

    Amherst 2026 Recap, Kato GP35 Rapido E8, Blunami Lighting Hacks + RGS 20 Chasing (S3 E3)

    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

  11. 37

    Brass Caboose Upgrades & Decoder Reset Basics (S3 E2)

    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.

  12. 36

    Back on Track: Layout Planning, Realistic Operations, and Show Season Ahead (S3E1)

    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

  13. 35

    Rehab, Retail, and Getting Started with Blunami (S2 E22)

    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.

  14. 34

    Upgrades, Paint Prep & Decoder Confidence (S2 E21)

    Tom kicks things off with an undecorated SW1200, walkingthrough his prep work before paint, lighting, and decoder installation. Meanwhile, George pulls his popular General off the shelf for a BLU-1100 upgrade. He covers what he customized on the model, how he dialed in thedecoder settings to accurately replicate the real locomotive, and why the BLU-1100 is such a solid choice.They also dive into an important topic: decoder safety. AllSoundTraxx decoders are designed with built-in safeguards—so you cannot damage a decoder by changing CVs. While you might get an unexpected result, a reset will always bring you back. With Blunami, you can even save your preferred CV setup, experiment with new features, and easily restore yourchosen settings without reverting to factory defaults.Tune in to see the upgrades, learn helpful tips, and get theconfidence to experiment with your own decoder settings!Related Videos: Tsunami2 TSU-1100 install in a Walthers P2K SW1200: https://youtu.be/c6oht73h_64Isolated Tsunami2 Steam Sounds: https://youtu.be/mGdqRMe6YZU

  15. 33

    Bringing the Hobby Shop to You with A&S Trains (S2 E20)

    George and Tom are joined by Arron from A&S Trains to talk about the A&S website and their unique approach to traveling to tradeshows—bringing the full hobby shop experience right to attendees. From there, the conversation shifts into a deep dive on Blunami, where George, Tom, and Arron share why it’s one of their favorite ways to run and enjoy their trains.

  16. 32

    Making Your Layout Feel Bigger with Blunami & Realistic Operations (S2 E19)

    Tom shows off his newly upgraded Athearn GP15-1 C&EI, now equipped with Blunami and renumbered. George brings his ScaleTrains D&RGW Rio Grande GP30—also upgraded with Blunami—and demonstrates full lighting control.Together, they dive into how SoundTraxx decoders can enhance your layout. By using realistic features like momentum, braking, and other prototypical behaviors, you can make your layout feel larger, extend your operating sessions, and boost overall enjoyment of the hobby.

  17. 31

    Fall Projects (NW2 and On30 C-19) and Deadrail Discussion (S2 E18)

    It’s fall in Durango, CO, and Tom has a new undecorated Walthers NW2 that he plans to paint to resemble a Zeigler Coal NW2. He’s also preparing to install a new BLU-1100 in it. Meanwhile, George shows off his Precision Scale On3 C-19 RGS 41, which he’s upgraded with Blunami. This model is battery-equipped, eliminating the need for track power. George explains how he upgraded the lighting on the locomotive and shares how class lights were used on real locomotives. He and Tom also discuss battery power and how you can run Blunami in deadrail. Watch now to join the discussion! Related videosDirectional Lighting with Blunami: https://youtu.be/VuzeuecC3no

  18. 30

    What’s New in the Blunami App | CV Tools, Consisting & More (S2 E17)

    George shows off our 35th Anniversary gear, available now on our website. He highlights some of our industry firsts, including our very first product, the Hyperlight, and our role in helping establish the DCC standard. Then, he gives a sneak peek at the new Blunami App for Apple devices, featuring powerful updates like CV Copy, CV Utility, Function Mapping Management and Naming, Consist Functions and Consisting, and Locomotive Sorting.Explore the Basics of DCC with SoundTraxx (Webinar4): https://youtu.be/t4xYHXkJXUk?si=WNm3g7ntKHarQ8IcConsisting Blunami Decoders https://youtu.be/uiJFCPT9VN4?si=sGLbWXUd6rFaL-cM

  19. 29

    Talking Trains, Tips, and Blunami Updates (S2 E16)

    George and Tom chat about their passion for customer service and connecting with fellow modelers. Tom shows off his upgraded Athearn Genesis GP38-2 featuring a Blunami BLU-21PNEM8 decoder, while George shares a fewmodeling tips and gives an update on his recently rebuilt Bachmann engine that still needs a little TLC after a nose-dive. They also cover upcoming tradeshows SoundTraxx will be attending and share news about the soon-to-be-releasedBlunami Apple App.

  20. 28

    Show Season Recap, Decoder Talk & a Blunami Teaser (S2 E15)

    Tom shares his modeling plans for a GP15, inspired by George’s Rehab My Loco series. With the paint stripped and the model prepped, he's ready to dive into upgrades—including a new Blunami decoder.Meanwhile, George shows off the nearly completed SD40 from his “Rehab My Loco” series, highlighting the custom lighting and some of the Blunami features he’s using.George recaps his whirlwind month of July with a behind-the-scenes look at life on the tradeshow circuit. From setup to teardown, hear what it’s really like for presenters on the road and he drops a small teaser about what’s next for Blunami.Lastly, the duo tackles the common confusion around DCC and programming terms. They explain why understanding these terms matters when troubleshooting or setting up your decoder—and where to find helpful resources like our User Guides and the DCC glossary on the SoundTraxx website.

  21. 27

    Decoder Upgrades and a Layout Horror Story from George (S2 E14)

    Tom is hard at work on a 2010 Athearn Genesis GP15-1. He has given it a fresh paint job, cleaned the mechanism, added new wheels, installed a Blunami decoder, upgraded the speakers, added several detail parts, and is now focusing on upgrading the lighting.George doesn’t have a model to show off this week—but he does have a scary story about a night scene on his layout.Decoder Tip of the Month: Is your model acting like it has a mind of its own? It might not be a decoder issue. Before you panic, try resetting your DCC system—it could be the trick to bring things back under control! Operations 101: Dynamic Brakes (Episode 6): https://youtu.be/t4Gyx7g9bsg Consisting with SoundTraxx Decoders (Webinar 14): https://youtu.be/wE_-Swn4WX4 Introduction to DCC Operation & CV Programming (Webinar9):  https://youtu.be/-w5ttfthhNk Explore the Basics of DCC with SoundTraxx (Webinar 4): https://youtu.be/t4xYHXkJXUk

  22. 26

    Welcoming Tom to the Team, Blunami Tips, and CV Tricks! (S2 E13)

    We’re excited to introduce the newest member of our Support Team — Tom Austin! A lifelong model railroader and fast learner, Tom is already diving in and ready to help you get the most from your SoundTraxx products.In this video, Tom shows off his GP15-1 and chats with George about the installation process, lighting upgrades, and how to rename functions using the Blunami App for Apple devices.George also shares his brand-new Atlas B23-7 and walks through how easy it is to set up with Blunami. By copying settings from his GP38, he quickly gets the B23-7 running — only needing to swap in the correct bell, prime mover, and airhorn. Thanks to CV copying, momentum, braking, and other performance features are already dialed in. He also demonstrates how simple it is to add and remove models from consists.To wrap things up, George and Tom review some awesome customer installs: a Walthers GP15 with a BLU-PNP8 decoder and a large-scale USA Trains SD40-2 equipped with a BLU-4408 decoder.

  23. 25

    Summer Travels, Upgraded Atlas GP38, and Decoder Installation Tips (S2 E12)

    George shares how to find SoundTraxx Authorized Retailersall over the globe—perfect for discovering amazing hobby shops during your summer travels! He’s also been busy handling customer support as we wish Grahamwell on his new adventure and welcome Tom, our new support technician.In this video, George shows off his older Atlas GP38,featuring upgraded lighting and smooth momentum, and braking settings.Decoder Tip of the Week: Always insulate your solder joints! Bare wire can lead to electrical issues and frustratingtroubleshooting. Take your time and keep your installs neat and reliable.

  24. 24

    Speaker Wiring Tips and Common Support Questions (S2 E11)

    George has been fielding our support calls and emails over the past couple of weeks, and he’s noticed a few common themes. First, he strongly recommends checking out our User’s Guides—these are packed with helpful information and can answer many of your questions right away.He then takes a deeper dive into some of the most frequently asked topics, especially around speaker installation. George explains how to properly wire speakers to your decoder and how to incorporate multiple speakers into a single installation for optimal sound performance.Tsunami2 TSU-21PNEM8 Decoder Set Up for an InterMountain Tier 4:  https://youtu.be/RkD_JlMU0hcGeorge's June 2025 Layout Update: https://youtu.be/ru7cZGKAs2U?si=WCKeqe3GwuO7Wz9R

  25. 23

    Back to the Basics of Modeling & Colorado Model Railroad Museum Guests (S2 E10)

    In this episode, George shares an inside look at his latest YouTube series, which takes a deep dive into the world of locomotive upgrades.From disassembling engines to installing detail parts, lighting, and modern decoders, he walks you through every step of the process.Later, George visits with the Colorado Model Railroad Museum director Michelle Kempema and social media manager Jennifer Howell.They discuss the museum’s exciting lineup of events for the year, including the Colorado RPM Meet.Let’s jump in! Colorado Model Railroad Museum: https://www.cmrm.org/Colorado RPM: https://corpm.org/

  26. 22

    Blunami Upgrades, LEDs, and Model Railroading Memories with George and Christopher Brown (S2 E9)

    George brings out his InterMountain Tier 4 GEVO to show offhis impressive Blunami upgrade. He’s installed the BLU-21PNEM8 decoder and shares a full installation and setup video to help others do the same. George has also added a ton of lights to the model and gives a full demonstration of the effects.Special guest Christopher Brown joins the conversation toshare his lifelong passion for trains. He talks about how he got into model railroading as a kid and how the hobby has evolved over the years with changing technology.Together, they dive into topics like trains, decoder installs, LED lighting, and more. Listen now to pick up some great modeling tips and inspiration! Christopher Brown’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@christopherbrown5338 Tsunami2 Install into a Scale Trains ES44 GEVO: TSU-21PNEM8, Mini Cubes & Decoder Buddy: https://youtu.be/hAFjiwZD7ao SoundTraxx Soldering Class (Webinar 8): https://youtu.be/1Qxv3iZcL6s Sound Theory | Speakers, baffles & more! (Webinar 5): https://youtu.be/9CdJtdK8GEg

  27. 21

    Reviving Classic Engines with Blunami: A Cost-Effective Solution (S2E8)

    Graham has been shopping on eBay and picked up a few new models. This week, he shows off his new Atlas Master engines, which he upgraded with Blunami decoders. George also shares his GP15, which he upgraded with Blunami as well. He talks about how he enhanced the lighting on this older model, renumbered it, and added some weathering details.This week’s model show-offs are a great example of how older models can be brought back to life with a new decoder and a bit of elbow grease. In today’s challenging economic climate—especially with tariffs affecting prices—model trains can get expensive. This is a resourceful way to get a high-quality model at a fraction of the cost of buying new.Watch now to learn more!

  28. 20

    Simplifying Blunami: Misconceptions & Tips (S2 E7)

    Blunami works seamlessly in DCC, but our app removes the confusion of CVs and decoder setup. You can configure everything in the app, then switch to DCC operation with ease. Our decoders are full of features, so chances are, if you want your train to behave a certain way—it can! And if you’re stuck, just give us a call. We’re happy to help.Graham runs an Athearn BNSF GP38 with a factory-installed Tsunami2 decoder. George has an Athearn GP38 and a ScaleTrains GP30, upgraded with a CurrentKeeper, Decoder Buddy, and Blunami BLU-21PNEM8. Doing the install this way gave him access to all of ScaleTrains' lights.George had trouble consisting his Blunami-equipped locos, despite how easy we say it is. The issue? A small setup misstep. He found a simple fix and wants to help others avoid the same frustration. Watch now to learn more!

  29. 19

    Railrunner, GP15s, Lighting Upgrades & Tsunami2: Factory vs. Aftermarket (S2 E6)

    On this week’s podcast, Graham showcases his True LineTrains Railrunner, upgraded with a Tsunami2 decoder and customized lighting. His enhancements include a directional headlight, backup light, illuminated number boards, a cab light, and ditch lights. Meanwhile, George discusses his brand-new Athearn GP15s, which come factory-equipped with Tsunami2 decoders and upgraded lighting. He also compares the differences between factory-installedand aftermarket Tsunami2 decoders.

  30. 18

    Blunami Installed in an Atlas Master GP38-2 and an Athearn RTR SD40 (S2 E5)

    This week, Graham has an Atlas Master GP38-2 upgraded with a Blunami BLU-21PNEM8 decoder, and George has outfitted an Athearn RTR SD40 with a host of added details and a Blunami decoder.We'll also be at the Chicago O Scale Meet in a couple ofweeks! Blunami is a game-changer for O Scalers, offering full decoder capabilities without the need to upgrade your DC layout —it's truly amazing. If you're an O Scaler in the Chicago area, be sure to stop by our booth to see Blunami in action. We'll have demo models for you to test out at the show!

  31. 17

    InterMountain F7 and a Bachmann Spectrum 4-8-Model Show Off Plus Speed Matching (S2 E4)

    You may have already met our new Support Technician, Graham, but we're excited to officially welcome him to the podcast! This week, George and Graham share their experiences upgrading older models with Blunami, including InterMountain F7A and F7B units and a Bachmann Spectrum 4-8-2 Light Mountain. They also dive into the topic of speed matching—if and when is it necessary? Let’s find out!

  32. 16

    January Show Recap + Interview with Kevin from Arnie's Trains (S2 E3)

    In this episode, we share the highlights from our January shows, covering the latest updates and standout moments. Plus, we sit down with Kevin from Arnie’s Trains for an exclusive interview. He shares insights on the model train industry, his passion for the hobby, and what’s new at Arnie’s Trains. Don’t miss this fun and informative episode! 🎙🚂 #ModelTrains #Podcast #ArnieTrains

  33. 15

    Decoder Design and Real-World Simulation with Blunami-equipped Models (S2 Ep2)

    George discusses the design and manufacturing of decoders in Durango, CO. He showcases his upgraded SD40-2C and SD40 models from Athearn, equipped with Blunami and LEDs. Additionally, he explains how Blunami features can simulate the real-world operations of these locomotives.

  34. 14

    George's Layout Tour (S2 E1)

    This week’s podcast is a special one! George takes us on a tour of his home layout, showcasing the impressive expansions and upgrades he’s made since his last reveal. There’s a lot to explore—let’s dive in!

  35. 13

    Blunami Install Tips and Easily Setting up a Realistic Consist (Episode 13)

    George showcases two Athearn GP38s equipped with BLU-PNP8s and a Proto 2000 GP38 fitted with a BLU-21PNEM8. He discusses the decoder installations, upgrading these models with LEDs, and demonstrates just how simple it is to consist these locomotives using the Blunami Android App.

  36. 12

    Trainfest Recap, GP38 with Blunami and LEDs, and Norman’s Announcement (Episode 12)

    George upgraded an Athearn GP38 with Blunami and added LEDs to the headlight, rear headlight, class lights, number boards, and ground lights. These lights are all labeled by their name and controlled by the press of a button in the Blunami App.

  37. 11

    Rio Grande SD40T-2, Kato Steeple Cab Electric Switcher, and SurroundTraxx (Episode 11)

    George shows off a Scale Trains Rio Grande SD40T-2 and Norman is working on a Kato steeple cab electric switcher that he will run with SurroundTraxx (get realistic train sounds that move with your train without the need for onboard speakers or decoders).

  38. 10

    George’s New Fuel Loading Platform & Easy Consisting with Blunami (Episode 10)

    George showcases his upgraded Walthers Fuel Loading Kit and provides an overview of how easy consisting is with the Blunami App – no CVs required! Now, you can spend more time enjoying running your trains instead of calculating CVs for setup.

  39. 9

    44 Tonner and Interview with Amazing Modeler: Reggie Thomas (Episode 9)

    Check out Rapido’s new 44 Tonner and we talk to Reggie Thomas an avid user of SoundTraxx products and an amazing modeler. See his models, his layout, and talk trains with the guys from SoundTraxx!

  40. 8

    Dynamometer Car, Speaker Selection, & Special Guest Matt from ReSourced Rails (Episode 8)

    In this episode, Norman shows off his Dynamometer car, discusses how to select a speaker for your decoder, and we welcome special guest Matt Dowd from ReSourced Rails. This is a fun one, don’t miss out!

  41. 7

    Special Guest Mike from Red’s Train Repair and Doc’s Caboose (Episode 7)

    George has upgraded a couple of Rapido F40PHs with Blunami, weathering, HEP mode, and various lights. We also talk with Mike from Doc’s Caboose in Kansas City, MO about their services and the SoundTraxx products that are most popular in their area.

  42. 6

    Large Prairie, ICC Caboose, & Sound Tools (Episode 6)

    Norman shows his Dapol Great Western Large Prairie locomotive that he upgraded with Tsunami2 and George has a Missouri Pacific ICC offset Wide Vision Caboose with SoundCar installed. They also touch on the audio tools we have built into our decoders to help you modify the sound to give each model a unique voice.

  43. 5

    Layout Updates, FAQs, and Short Circuits (Episode 5)

    George has been busy with layout updates. He is in the process of upgrading his oil loading platform using a Walthers kit and adding custom details to enhance his setup. He also addresses some common Blunami FAQs, including whether Blunami can run on DCC and how to disable auto-start. Meanwhile, Norman dives into the topic of short circuits—explaining what they are, what they aren’t, and how to troubleshoot any decoder-related issues. Remember, we’re always here to help—don’t hesitate to reach out!   Contact our Support Team: https://soundtraxx.com/contact/technical-support C.W. McCall’s Wolf Creek Pass: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R-xqfqcgNAE

  44. 4

    Model Railroading: A Lifelong Hobby (Episode 4)

    Join George and Norman, from the SoundTraxx Support Team, as George shows off his layout expansion and they discuss how youth are interacting with the model railroading community in today's technical-driven world. Remember that there are no dumb questions. No one is born knowing how to be a model railroader, and we are happy to help you learn. At the end of the day, we are modelers, just like you, and we want to help you enjoy the hobby!

  45. 3

    Special Guest Jim Wiggin from Athearn Trains (Episode 3)

    In this episode, we visit with Jim Wiggin from Athearn Model Trains. He is Athearn's brand manager and a model railroader himself. Join us as we discuss Athearn, factory-equipped Tsunami2 decoders, and trains!

  46. 2

    Model Train Show Off: Highly Customized GP12 and BR Standard Class 2 (Episode 2)

    In this episode, our team shows off the model trains they have been working on recently. George has a highly customized GP12 in the Missouri Pacific paint scheme. He upgraded it with a Blunami sound decoder, added extra lights, and did a fabulous job weathering the paint. Norman shows off his British Railways Standard Class 2 steam locomotive. He discusses the Tsunami2, TSU-N18 decoder installation he performed. He also explains how he selected sounds for this model from the Tsunami2 steam library. Join us as we talk trains!

  47. 1

    SoundTraxx Crew Shows Off Their Trains & Show Me Model Railroad Interview (Episode 1)

    Welcome to our new podcast where we talk about all things trains! In this first episode, you will meet our Product Expert, George, and our Support Technician, Norman. They both show off one of their recent model railroading projects and then we will speak with George Hansen from Show Me Model Railroad Company about how Blunami has affected his hobby shop. Norman has an N-Scale LNER Y1 shunting engine to present and George has been working on an HO Scale Atlas MP15.....Let's talk trains!

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Welcome aboard! At SoundTraxx, our staff are modelers just like you. Join us as we share our journey through the captivating world of model railroading. Here we will share our knowledge, experiences, and projects with you. We will also chat with our friends in the hobby and the railroading industry to keep you up-to-date on all things trains. Hop on board and embark on an exciting adventure with us. Everyone is welcome from seasoned collectors to newcomers!

HOSTED BY

SoundTraxx DCC

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does SoundBytes: Train Talk from Milepost 141 have?

SoundBytes: Train Talk from Milepost 141 currently has 47 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is SoundBytes: Train Talk from Milepost 141 about?

Welcome aboard! At SoundTraxx, our staff are modelers just like you. Join us as we share our journey through the captivating world of model railroading. Here we will share our knowledge, experiences, and projects with you. We will also chat with our friends in the hobby and the railroading industry...

How often does SoundBytes: Train Talk from Milepost 141 release new episodes?

SoundBytes: Train Talk from Milepost 141 has 47 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to SoundBytes: Train Talk from Milepost 141?

You can listen to SoundBytes: Train Talk from Milepost 141 on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts SoundBytes: Train Talk from Milepost 141?

SoundBytes: Train Talk from Milepost 141 is created and hosted by SoundTraxx DCC.
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