Since 2011, the newly introduced 4th generation of LokSound decoders has already delighted many H0 and N gauge fans in the model railway sector. From this year on, also friends of larger gauges will be able to benefit from all the new functions.
While ESU celebrates its 15th anniversary and at the same time 12 years of LokSound, we have equipped the new XL V4.0 decoder with a range of functions you would have neither expected nor be able to find elsewhere.
Because when it comes to sound, it will be difficult for others to catch up… With its size of 51mm x 40 mm (2 x 1.57 inches) the LokSound XL V4.0 easily fits in all large gauge locomotives and comes in two different interface versions:
Beside a version with robust screw terminals, which can be easily installed - into older models – there will be a version with PIN-connectors. The PIN-connector version fits into all locos that have installed a LokSound XL V3.5 decoder. All you need to do is to pull off / remove the old decoder and plug in the new LokSound XL V4.0 decoder, Finished! The “new one” is a 100% compatible to the current model.
Operational modes
The LokSound XL V4.0 is an absolute universal genius. It is the first and only decoder world-wide, speaking 4 data protocols and can thus be used anywhere. Beside DCC operation with RailComPlus recognition, the decoder will be automatically recognised by Märklin® command stations via the M4 protocol. For owners of older layouts, the decoder has additionally been equipped with the well-known Motorola® and Selectrix® data format.
The LokSound XL V4.0 decoder can also be used on analogue DC or AC layouts. The built-in motor control will learn the motor manners and synchronise the drive and lighting functions with the sound functions.
So model railroaders without a digital system can also enjoy the LokSound decoders, of course, without the sounds triggered by function keys. No matter which command station you operate, the decoder will always be perfectly integrated. Thanks to its M4 recognition, it will be automatically detected by Märklin Central Stations® and 16 functions will be available. Of course you´ll be able to adjust all parameters with your command stations as you used to do.
During DCC operation there will be up to 28 functions available. The decoder will be automatically recognised in a matter of seconds by an ESU ECoS with RailComPlus® detection and show all functions as well. If you still own an old LGB® MZS® layout with serial function transmission, that is no problem for the decoder.
Owners of the “older” Märklin® 6021 will not be excluded for sure. 4 addresses per decoder enable to switch up to 16 functions. A built-in programming mode makes reprogramming, even with this dignified command station, possible. Last but not least it should be remembered that the decoder can be operated reliably with Selectrix® command stations.
All of this sounds far too good to be true? It gets even better: The LokSound XL V4.0 decoder recognises all common brake systems, such as the Märklin® brake system, the Lenz® ABC brake system (with slow drive function!), Selectrix® diode brake systems or ZIMO® HLU® systems: the decoder will always recognise the desired operational mode full-automatically. For us being the creator of this function, it is a matter of honour that during braking a constant distance can be defined.
Motor control
From a LokSound made for larger gauges you expect an excellent motor control and considerable power and deservedly so! LokSound XL V4.0 is equipped with the 5th generation of load control. You can adjust the control frequency adaptively to the speed. So many motors will run even better and softer.
Thanks to the 10 Bit A/D convertor, locos with well-known motors by e.g. Bühler®, Mabuchi®, Faulhaber® or Maxon®, will drive very slowly on the tracks. You can determine a limitation of the load control‘s influence with the Dynamic Drive Control (DDC) to control very accurately in station or shunting switch areas. Uphill running also appears very natural with it.
The power of the LokSound XL V4.0 decoder´s motor output has been increased by 25% and now delivers 4.0A continuous output (for a short time up to 5A) to keep heavy two-engine locos (e.g. by Piko®, KISS or LGB®) also running smoothly.
Sound
The most important element of the new LokSound V4.0 decoders is the sound chip. This is why we have equipped the LokSound XL V4.0 with an enormous memory of 32 MBit to save up to 276 seconds of original sounds. The LokSound XL V4.0 works with 8 polyphonic channels, i.e. that the decoder is able to play up to 8 different sounds simultaneously, using the 10-Bit mixer and the nearly noiseless D/A convertor.
So we can provide much better monitoring of the original locomotive´s complex elements as it is possible to combine several channels. You‘ll recognise the difference at once! The sounds will be transmitted to the loudspeaker using a new digital „class D“ amplifier. The dublex power amplifier, the LokSound XL V4.0 has been equipped with, allows you to hear your locos anytime from the furthest corners of your garden.
Thus you will be able to connect two different loudspeakers and bring out a maximum performance of all in all up to 13 Watts from the decoder. All single sounds can be adjusted individually per CV in their sound volume. If desired, you are also able to set the sound level with the help of two (optional) rotary potentiometers directly at the loco.
Functions
In larger scaled locos a lot of special functions could be switched or moved. Therefore the new decoder comes with twelve (12!) function outputs with 500mA power/constant current each to control lighting effects or fan motors. Each function output can be adjusted individually in terms of brightness or lighting effects and controls LEDs or light bulbs. Also micro bulbs with a current of 1.8V can be directly used due to an integrated voltage regulator.
Beyond this, the LokSound XL V4.0 decoder controls 4 servos. This allows features such as lifting and lowering pantographs, functional shunting couplings or radius bar (reach rod) changes on steam locomotives. Simply plug in our ESU servos or other commercial servos. Of course, you will be able to synchronise motor, sound and special functions. This makes remote controlled coupling possible including the prototypical automatic pushing and pulling of the loco.
The LokSound XL V4.0 decoder is prepared to control external smoke generators. No matter if it is the Dynamic-Smoke module by KM-1® or the smoke unit by Massoth®: the decoder creates the required synchronization impulse.
Three digital inputs can be used for control functions. Thus it is possible to install a reed contact under the locomotive and spread track magnets across the layout to trigger a horn when passing them or – a brand-new function! –stop automatically at the station and drive on automatically after a few seconds.
Safe operation
Especially garden railway and smaller gauge 1 locomotives suffer from bad power consumption. This problem will be finally solved with the LokSound XL V4.0: The PowerPack (which is directly integrated on the decoder) reliably buffers all of the decoder´s functions and makes a reliable and trouble-free operation possible. There is no need to configure or connect something. The function is just there.
Protection
Of course, all function outputs and the motor current output are overload protected. We want you to have fun with your decoder as long as possible!
Future built-in
You can update the firmware of the LokSound decoders. This means, the internal software of the decoder can be replaced by new versions if necessary via the ESU LokProgrammer.
Sound variations
ESU, as the technologic and market leader takes your requirements for sound very seriously. For LokSound XL V4.0 decoders, all sounds created for the 4th generation of LokSounds can be used - or projects that have been created for a LokSound XL V3.5 can be converted just by a few mouse clicks. There are already more than 200 sound variations available. ESU is extending the sound library all the time and provides all sounds on our homepage for free download.
At the NMRA show in Sacramento ESU announced a brand new decoder. The LokSound Select Direct. The Select Direct was designed to fit as a DIRECT replacement for many modern lighting boards including Ahearn Genesis, Atlas, Bowser-Stewart, and Intermountain. http://www.esu.eu/en/products/ Loksound/ Loksound-select-direct
No need to try to figure what board design to use with what engine anymore...One size fits all...almost! Also like all the LokSound Decoders they are programmable so one decoder could be bought for an Ahearn Genesis SD70M-2 and then be installed into an Intermountain Gevo! The versatility is outstanding!
Delivery should be in Oct. 2011
Having trouble trying to decide what decoder will fit in your favorite engine? Now with the NEW LokSound Select Direct Decoder your troubles are over! The Select Direct was designed to fit as a DIRECT replacement for many modern lighting boards including Athearn Genesis, Atlas, Bowser-Stewart, and Intermountain.
The LokSound Select Direct is a versatile DCC & DC “Dual Mode” decoder integrating a full-featured, 8 channel sound system, six lighting outputs and a 1.1A motor controller. While the LokSound Select only measures (0.67x2.72inch/17x69mm), due to its unique thermal design, it (like all genuine LokSound decoders) does not need any heat sinks.
Like the Original LokSound Select and the New LokSound Version 4.0, we offer a comprehensive range of new high-power speakers, rated at 4 Ohms.
Operational modes
The LokSound Select can be used on conventional “analog” layouts and controlled with a DC power pack, but to benefit from all its features, we highly recommend DCC operation.
The LokSound Select follows all NMRA DCC standards and recommended practices. It can be used with 14, 28 or 128 speed steps, supports two digit (7 bit addresses) as well as “4-digit” addressing. Up to 29 function keys are supported! The LokSound Select can change between DC and DCC operation at any time “on the fly”.
Of course, the LokSound Select supports all DCC-programming modes including Programming on the Main Track (“POM”). Because of its unique low-power design, the LokSound Select can be programmed on the programming track of all popular DCC systems. No programming track boosters or other circuitry will be needed.
Sound
The LokSound Select comes with a 32 MBit memory chip. The sounds stored therein are our own recordings which were made by using the latest recording equipment and have been digitally re-mastered for the best audio possible. The sounds are transferred to a class “D” audio amplifier via eight polyphonic sound channels. LokSound Select Direct decoders offer the following unique features:
Multiple horns: Each LokSound Select offers many horns. By just changing one CV, you can select your favorite one. This allows an easier adjustment to your model.
Playable horns: The LokSound Select supports a very fast responding whistle function. By just pressing your throttle‘s button, you can really blow the horn like the real engineer.
8 channel sound: The LokSound Select can playback up to 8 sounds at the same time. This will result in the most realistic experience available today.
Synchronized brake squeal: The LokSound Select will synchronize the brake squeal sound with the real movement of the locomotive. No longer will stopped trains have the brake sound still on!
Manual notching: The diesel speed steps can be either manually controlled by function keys or automatically based on the speed.
Individual volume control: The volume of all sound effects can be adjusted individually.
Diesel decoders can produce over 20 sound effects, including the engine start-up and shutdown, prime mover sounds through all eight notches, bell, air horn, air compressor, dynamic brakes, fans, brake squeals, coupling and uncoupling, detector sounds, rail clank and many more.
Customize your sounds
Unlike all other manufacturers, LokSound Select offers you two options to customize your engine. The most simple is by using one (!) CV. You can select the prime mover sound, the desired whistle or horn and the bell. Each LokSound Select offers various options on that (see table below).
However, if you are still unsatisfied with the result, you may at any time use the famous LokSound Programmer to download new sounds into the LokSound Select. We offer numerous “ready-made” sound packages for easy downloading.
Superior motor control
ESU offers load compensation (using B-EMF) since 1999. While other manufacturers seem only to focus on the sound options, the LokSound Select offers the 5th generation of motor control resulting in a smooth and precise locomotive operation. We at ESU believe that good motor control is mandatory for model trains: Even the best sound is worthless if the locomotive running is not smooth!
Regardless if you are using coreless or conventional DC motors, the LokSound Select’s unique auto-detection function can measure the characteristics and adjust the internal settings. There is no need to fiddle around with many CVs to adjust to the engine. Due to Dynamic Drive Control (DDC) you can limit the influence of the load control and operate really smoothly around the yard and over turnouts.
Shining lighting effects
Each LokSound Select include 6 (!) outputs with 0.25A current each that can be allocated individually to a light effect, which simulates the light patterns of many popular warning beacons. Besides D312 Rotary beacon, strobe and alternate flashing, there is a firebox flicker, smart flicker, Mars light, Gyralight, Ditch lights (two types), Oscillating Headlights, Stratolight and many more.
The Rule 17 dimmable headlight can be either controlled automatically or by function button. An LED brightness correction feature now also allows using LEDs for lighting effects! This is an important feature since LEDs do behave different than bulbs.
You NOW have a CHOICE!
Having trouble with “Factory Installed DCC”? You now have a choice! The LokSound Select Direct was designed to fit the light board mounts of many major manufacturers including Athearn Genesis, Atlas, Bowser-Stewart, and Intermountain.
With its unique design, the LokSound Select Direct can easily replace boards that provide poor motor control, low volume, or generally inferior sound. Not only will the decoder work fine with most factory installed speakers, but it will sound even better with our 4 Ohm speakers listed below! You pay a lot of money for your favorite trains! Give them a chance to run and sound as good as they look!
The name tells it all: The LokSound XL V3.5 is intended for the big locos of gauge G and I. It works with DCC – or Märklin® Motorola® systems, as well as with LGB®-MTS®’s typical domino sequencing set up for the function keys. The LokSound XL V3.5 size 51 x 40 mm, (2,04 x 1,6 in) fits in all locos of these gauges, and is shipped with a robust screw terminal connection for easy installation.
Operational modes
The LokSound XL V3.5 handles DCC and Motorola®. In DCC mode it will operate with 14, 28 or 128 speed st eps. The decoder recognizes the speed step number automatically. It supports Lenz® LG 100, respectively Roco® braking sections, as well as braking in DC sections with reversed polarity, or the Märklin® braking section (even in DCC operation). You can either use a two digit (1 – 127) or a four digit address (1 – 9999), or assign a consist address. The Motorola® protocol makes it possible to run the LokSound decoder with Märklin® stations 6020, 6021, delta®, mobile station® and central station®. The decoder commands hereby addresses 1 – 80, and stops correctly on the Märklin® braking section. During operation, the LokSound XL V3.5 decoder converts automatically between all control modes (Motorola®, DCC, AC, DC).
Motor management
The powerful output stage (3.0A continuous-current) will run models with even two prime movers. All known DC- and coreless motors (e.g. Mabuchi®, Bühler®, Faulhaber® or Maxon®) can be used. The load control (back EMF) with 32 kHz High frequency regulation takes care of a silky smooth, absolutely silent motor operation, and lets your engines crawl super slowly on the layout. A 10-bit A/D converter makes this possible. With Dynamic Drive Control (DDC) you can limit the influence of load control and operate really smoothly in the depot area and over turnouts; while on the (fast) main, when going uphill, the engine slows prototypically down.
Sound
The LokSound XL V3.5 decoder stores up to 130 seconds of sound data in its 16 MBit flash chip. This is transferred to a 1.5 Watt, last stage high performance bridge tied amplifier via four polyphonic sound channels. Together with our ESU Loudspeakers (16 – 32 Ohm) or Hi-Fi loudspeakers (8 – 16 Ohm), your engines will really sound their best in the future. Load dependent strain (de-selectable) is as much taken for granted, as Doppler effect, or separate volume adjustment for each of the channels.
Analog operation
Back EMF as well as the sound of the LokSound XL V3.5 decoder is fully serviceable in Analog mode.
Functions
From experience it is known that there is much to switch in big locos. That’s why we provided for eight (!) function outputs. Each output can be allocated to a function: Besides beacon, strobe and alternate flashing, there is firebox flicker simulation, as well as Mars light or Gyra light for US models. All function outputs are individually dimmable in 15 steps. Each function output can be allocated to any function key between F0 and F15 (mapping). Furthermore the combination of sound – and function sequences makes it possible to simulate realistic function events, such as firebox flicker when shoveling coal.
Programming
The LokSound XL V3.5 decoder supports all DCC programming modes. All adjustments are done electronically. This applies even when working with Märklin® center stations 6020, 6021, mobile station® and central station®. For these units, the LokSound XL V3.5 decoder employs a proven, easily acquired programming procedure. All programmed changes during Motorola® operation are valid with DCC – and vice verse. Programming configuration variables (CV’s) is especially simple for owners of our ECoS Command Station: All modifications are displayed in plain words on the large screen and can easily be altered – even during operation on the layout.
Safeguard
All function outputs and the motor connection are protected against overload and short circuit. We’d like you to enjoy your LokSound XL V3.5 decoder as long as possible.
Built-in future
LokSound XL V3.5 decoders are firmware updatable. This means, the internal decoder software can be replaced by new versions, if necessary. To do this, you only need an ESU LokProgrammer and a PC. You will appreciate the value of this investment, when you realize that any owner of a LokSound XL V3.0 decoder can, through an update turn it into a LokSound XL V3.5 decoder: You can download the software from our homepage – free of charge.
Variety of sound
ESU, as market and technology leader in the realm of sound, takes your demands for sound realism very seriously. That’s why we offer over
100 (!) different sound variants just for the LokSound XL V3.5 ! When you purchase a sound module of a certain prototype from us, be assured the sound comes from that loco. Guaranteed. You can count on it.
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