Digital Sound Decoders
Tsunami2 is SoundTraxx’s premium line of high-performance Digital Sound Decoders, engineered for modelers who want maximum control and realism. Delivering immersive onboard locomotive sound, advanced motor control, and brilliant lighting effects, Tsunami2 puts you in control of every detail.
With an extensive library of sound profiles and powerful audio customization tools, Tsunami2 allows you to fine-tune your locomotive for an authentic and highly personalized operating experience. From smooth, slow-speed performance to dynamic sound mixing and lighting effects, Tsunami2 is built to bring your models to life. Scroll down to explore the full range of Tsunami2 features.
Tsunami2 Board Formats
Tsunami2 Features
Game-Changer Features:
Tsunami2 leads the industry in processing power with a 32-bit processor that delivers the horsepower to support 28 functions, 16 polyphonic sound channels, advanced motor control, and a wide range of sound and lighting effects.
Each Tsunami2 Digital Sound Decoder combines a full-featured sound system, Hyperlight™ lighting effects, Hyperdrive2™ advanced motor control, and a DCC decoder in one powerful package. With over 60 individual sounds and more than 20 lighting effects available in each model, Tsunami2 gives you the tools to create a truly immersive operating experience.
Compare Decoders:
Not sure which line of decoder fits your needs? No problem! Take a look at the features that matter most to you on this comparison chart:
Sound Samples:
Want to hear the sounds before you buy? Explore all of the sounds we have available on our Sound Samples page:
Did you know Tsunami2 includes a wide range of built-in features designed to make your model trains operate more realistically than ever? Tsunami2 sound decoders are so powerful that they come with four special effects processors: Equalizer, Sound Mixer, Dynamic Digital Exhaust, and Reverb. It’s like having a complete sound studio built right into your locomotive.
STEAM
Authentic Steam Control and Sound
With Tsunami2’s adjustable steam cut-off, you’ll feel like you’re right in the cab, in full control of your locomotive. Our steam effects bring depth and realism to every run!
Tsunami2 steam decoders can produce over 60 individual sound effects, including 12 bells, 90 whistles, 10 air pumps, 8 dynamos, 10 exhaust chuffs, plus snifter valves, injectors, Johnson Bar, power reverse, firebox blower, side rod clank, brake squeal, and more—giving your steam locomotive the rich, authentic soundscape it deserves.
Tsunami2 Steam Sounds and Effects:
- 10 exhaust chuffs in a single decoder
- Dynamic Digital Exhaust (automatically adjusts engine intensity and tone based on load and speed)
- Functioning adjustable exhaust cut-off
- Functioning locomotive and train brakes with adjustable braking rates
- 90 whistles
- Selectable Compressors, Bells, Dynamos, Couplers, and more
- Fireman Fred sounds for coal-fired, wood, oil, or auger-fueled locomotives
- Locomotive servicing sounds
- Traditional 2-cylinder, plus new 3-cylinder and articulated settings on all exhaust chuffs
- Clickety-Clack and new authentic drifting sounds
DIESEL
Powerful Diesel Realism
Tsunami2 diesel sound decoders are packed with advanced features and over 60 individual sound effects that bring your models to life. With extensive options and customization, no two locomotives have to sound the same.
Experience full engine startup and shutdown, prime mover sounds through all eight notches, Straight-to-8, HEP mode, 13 bells, more than 40 airhorns, 4 air compressors, dynamic brakes, radiator fans, brake squeal, and much more—everything you need to bring authentic diesel performance to your layout.
Tsunami2 Diesel Sounds and Effects:
- Each diesel version (EMD, GE, etc.) contains up to 12 manufacturer-specific prime movers in one decoder (Turbo, Non-turbo, etc.)
- Dynamic Digital Exhaust (automatically adjusts engine intensity and tone based on load and speed)
- Prime Mover Pitch Shift (make each model sound unique)
- Startup, shutdown, and exhaust through 8 notches
- Automatic or manual notching
- Functioning dynamic brake with variable load sound and adjustable braking rate
- Over 40 airhorns
- Straight-to-Idle & True Idle Features
- Selectable compressors, bells, and couplers
- First-ever Fireman Ed is ready to work on the locomotive, with general service, cab sounds, and more!
- Clickety-clack, fueling, and authentic cab chatter add realism
- Prototypically correct HEP modes and steam heat for authentic passenger train operations
- Auxiliary HEP Generator
ELECTRIC
Authentic Electric Performance
Tsunami2 electric sound decoders deliver a wide range of features, including over 40 airhorns and air whistles, 13 bells, 4 air compressors, traction motor whine, and realistic pantograph raise and lower sounds—capturing the distinct character of electric locomotive operation.
Tsunami2 Electric Sounds and Effects:
- Dynamic Digital Exhaust with traction motor whine (automatically adjusts engine intensity and tone based on load and speed)
- Pantograph operation sounds
- Over 40 airhorns/air whistle selections
- Motorman Omura provides cab sounds, operates doors, and services the engine
- Catenary arcing sound and lighting effect
- Selectable compressors, bells, and couplers
- Clickety-clack and authentic cab chatter add realism
- Trolley bell, stop requests, and door sounds for trolleys and traction models
- Steam heat for authentic passenger train operation