SoundTraxx

Overview

SoundTraxx designs and manufactures digital sound decoders and lighting systems for model railroads. The company operates in the niche market of Digital Command Control (DCC) accessories, producing products that add realistic sound and lighting effects to model trains. It is known for innovations like the first microprocessor-based lighting system and early DCC sound decoders.¹²⁵

History

SoundTraxx’s corporate entity, Throttle Up! Corp., was founded in 1989 in Pocasset, Massachusetts, with its first product being the Hyperlight lighting system in 1990. The company moved to Broomfield, Colorado in 1994 and released the DSD-2408, the first DCC decoder integrated with sound. In 2001, it relocated to a 6,100 sq ft facility in Durango, Colorado, where it continues operations.²

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Products are designed and manufactured in Durango, Colorado, United States. The company operates from a dedicated facility there since 2001, indicating in-house production for its electronics.¹²⁵

Notable Products

• Hyperlight - First microprocessor-based lighting system for model trains, allowing user-selectable effects.
• DSD-2408 Digital Sound Decoder - First DCC decoder integrated with sound features.
• Tsunami2 - High-fidelity sound decoder with advanced effects for realistic operation.
• Blunami - Bluetooth-enabled, battery-powered decoder for wireless control.
• Econami - Affordable sound decoder maintaining quality audio.

Reputation

SoundTraxx is regarded by model railroad enthusiasts for pioneering DCC sound technology and delivering high-quality, realistic audio effects. Professionals value its innovative features like customizable sounds and reliable integration. Some users note higher pricing compared to competitors, though performance justifies it for serious modelers.¹²⁵