"Gold Series" Atlas S-2 ....whaaaaa?

[chicken45]

I have to say, I wasn't interested in sound until I got a loco that had one.

[sirenwerks]

I don't think Peter was pointing out the elephant in the room.  It seems to be getting more expensive to get a decent sized train together in N scale.  A dollar in 1980 is worth only about a third of that now, so proportionally retail price has grown proportionally to overall inflation, but as the demographics of modelers hit a certain point (retirement) it becomes true as their income levels off and buying power flatlines.

That being said, the sound on the S2 has good enough bass to it to do an Alco 539 justice?  The tinny speakers in a lot of locos is what I'm "concerned" about.

[bbussey]

I was at the Atlas tables a number of times during the convention.  The S-2 sound was impressive.  It didn't sound tinny.  I believe most people will be pleased with the end product.

Regarding the high MSRP on the DCC/sound version — you always can purchase the DCC-ready version and install a non-sound decoder, which will net out at a lower expense.
 

[VonRyan]

I'm glad i preordered my PRR gold version at $160 from BLW. 
It is my biggest investment thus far, but the fact that the sound is factory installed is what got me to plunk down early for it. I just hope it gets here in time for it to reach my doorstep before Thanksgiving. I'd love to give it a good run-in at the Greenberg show in Edison, NJ on thanksgiving weekend.


-Cody F.

[Philip H]

The two or three sound equipped loco I have interacted with at Seusscaboose's were all good sounding for their size, and it does enhance the realism of the operations.  Given what it costs to get sound installed in other locos, the price point seems about right.  I agree it will be a tough sell for new entrants to the hobby, but HO locomotives aren't exactly cheaper.

And besides, we've been agitating for locos like these for a while, so Atlas is to be congratulated for listening.

[Packer]

I'd want to see a video of this one.

I have to say, I wasn't interested in sound until I got a loco that had one.

I was the same way.

[mark dance]

I'd want to see a video of this one.

for what its worth...following a quick search.

md

[Kisatchie]

I can do without sound.


Hmm... Kiz makes
enough noise on his
own...

[sirenwerks]

I'll have to go to Kleins and run one around the loop.

[OldEastRR]

Just for the record, I wasn't complaining about the S2, just confused as to what "sound capability" meant. Can't people just talk plain anymore? What's wrong with the description "Comes with DCC and sound w/ speaker installed"?

[SkipGear]

Just for the record, I wasn't complaining about the S2, just confused as to what "sound capability" meant. Can't people just talk plain anymore? What's wrong with the description "Comes with DCC and sound w/ speaker installed"?

I'll refer to the Atlas release page once again......  http://www.atlasrr.com/NLoco/ns2.htm
Top of the page: New Model Featuring ESU Loksound!
Not sure how much more plain it could be stated.

Further down....

Sound Functionality Features (GOLD LOCOMOTIVES ONLY):

Over 20 sound effects are available, including engine start-up and shutdown, prime mover sounds through all eight notches, bell, air horn, air compressor, dynamic brakes and more.
There are 16 user-selectable horns, 2 user-selectable bells, and 2 user-selectable synchronized brake squeals.
Manual and Automatic Notching modes with the ability to change modes ”on the fly” are provided for true realism.

[Bruce Bird]

If they sell in HO, they will sell in N.  I have seen, heard, and ran on a regular basis sound-equipped N steamers on an excellent operations layout and it adds a tremendous amount to the session.  I am very excited about this offering and the cost is just fine.  A pair will get quickly painted up speedletter and put to work shuffling cars at Hagerstown.

[mmagliaro]

I have to say, I wasn't interested in sound until I got a loco that had one.

Unlike the sound lovers, my experience is exactly the opposite.  I've had a few sound equipped engines
(other peoples', just here for repairs).  And after running them for a minute or two, even with the volume
turned way down to a realistic level, I am looking for the "off switch".     My experience is exactly
the opposite of yours.  I was intrigued by the idea of sound until I got a loco that had it.
Then I decided it wasn't for me.

This isn't intended to say either way is better, only that I'm sure there are a lot of people on both sides
of liking/disliking sound, so offering 2 versions is a good approach.

[casmmr]

For now my wallet is safe, no road names in the roads I model, B&O, C&O, Chessie.

[Scott Lupia]

I was skeptical about the sound thing in an engine this small because of the diminutive size of the speaker.  The ESU Loksound decoders and their sound is impressive so I was willing to take the plunge and order a trio of engines for City Yard in Scranton.  I know what it would cost me in time, effort and coin if I were to do the sound installation in this engine so the cost issue is a no brainer for me.  This is obviously a custom decoder designed specifically for this engine which is great news for us N-Scale sound guys.  If they can do it in an N-scale S2 they can do it in anything.  I am really looking forward to this engine.  We have all been wanting Alco switchers and now we have 2 to work with. 

Scott Lupia