The Kato Sound Box provides an easy way to add realistic sound effects to a direct-current (DC) layout without having to install Digital Command Control (DCC). Senior editor Dana Kawala demonstrates the Sound Box connected to a Kato power pack on the Model Railroader staff’s N scale Red Oak project model train layout.
Video: Kato Sound Box analog sound controller for model trains
By Angela Cotey | April 27, 2015
| Last updated on December 3, 2020
The Kato Sound Box adds user-controlled effects to non-DCC model trains
Here's a question for Ask MRVP — what sort of table or cart is Dana using to put the Sound Box on? I think I saw Cody using it in one of the Rehab My Railroad episodes and David uses it from time to time. What's on the surface of it? Thanks!
Dana,
Can I use the sound box with the Kato controller hooked up through the Jump Port of a Digitrax DCS51?
I wish that the synchronization was automatic with the power on the dc power pack.
Dana, your hands looked busier than a card-dealer in a Black Jack game…
Thanks for your help, Dana. Much appreciated.
Hi Chris,
As I mentioned in the review, the Sound Box works with either a Kato or non-Kato DC power pack. A power pack is necessary to use this product. The power pack controls the direction and the amount of maximum amount of voltage to the track. Once that is set, you can use the start button as a throttle for speed control. It's not that hard to use, it just takes a bit of trial and error depending on the locomotive that you're using. Yes, I the line out will send the sound to an external system and not the built-in speaker. It works well for someone who wants to run trains from a stationary location and doesn't want to convert to DCC.
Dana Kawala
Senior editor
I have all MRC Tech II through IV powerpacks on my three track layout. How difficult would it be to hook the Kato unit to these power packs, or is it even possible? And I assume that each track would require its own unit, correct?
I too am confused about the reviews of this product. This video and the MR report don't help much. I would like to know more about the add on DC power pack. Does this control the train? What voltage and why did it supply. If the Kato unit is needed to control trains, then this is a bit of a monster to fit on the layout, and is certainly not hand held. Is the START knob used for controlling the trains?? What about direction control? Is it center off?? If I plug in a line output to my hifi, does that kill the kato speaker?? The layout is an ergonomic disaster, as seen by the many hands trying to use it. The start button should be where the volume knob is for ease of operation.
What about older non-DC layouts with regular transformers? Love to see a unit that could add sound to those. Right now I just use an old computer sitting next to my layout for background sounds, different bells and whistles, costs me nothing but does not provide control over the engine motion.
Not too bad for diesels. What about a steam version, or will this device handle both, depending on the chip application?
I'm confused, does the sound box actually drive the engine? or do I need a separate power pack to run the trains, like the older sound systems and what is the cost of each plug in module or sounds thank you
john
George Blakey:
The layout is the most recent Model Railroader project layout, the N scale Red Oak that ran in the January through April 2015 issues. The track plan is also in the online database. Hope this helps.
Bill Schipiour:
The point of using the sync button is to simulate momentum, braking, and a bit of a manual notching effect. It isn't realistic to have the rpm linked only to the locomotive speed.
Thomas Christopher:
Again, this is a video demo so that you're able to actually listen to the product. Read the product review to learn more about the price and other details. The link is right below the video.
Thanks for watching,
Dana Kawala
Senior editor
It seems that the operator must have 3 or 4 hands in order to control speed and sound!!!! I don't like it.
An interesting item to investigate, but my question is, what is the layout? Is it in a past MR or in the plans database, and if so, which, please?
I envision using this sound generator coupled to an in cab video camera and viola!, we have a realistic reproduction of actually piloting around our own layout!
It's a lot of money for something that doesn't seem to be perfected that well. it should be in sync with the speed controler
not enough detailed info does controller connect to track? is the plug in sound card included and what is the cost and availabilty of additional sound cards? Please contact me at cchristk@gmail.com THX
Hello Bob,
Click on the link to the product review below the video. That should answer your questions. After applying voltage with the power pack, I used the Sound Box to control speed and simulate some momentum. It takes a bit of trial and error as the controls will vary with the locomotive.
Again, if you read the review, I think you'll find the information you're looking for. The video is just to give you an idea of what the device sounds like.
Thanks for watching and reading,
Dana Kawala
Senior editor
Not too certain which unit was controlling the engine; the power pack or the sound pack. Certainly did take a while before the engine moved the first time.
There needs to be more explanation here. Obviously the DC controller synced with the sound box, but does this work only with Kato controller? Next, if my deduction was correct, did all the speed and direction commands come from the sound box? Please, a "running commentary" as you fiddled with it would have been greatly appreciated!