#36 Hornby Class 43 HST DCC Sound - Upgrading the Stock Speakers (TTS & LokSound Decoders)

Hornby have just released a brand new Class 43/HST set with TTS sound. It’s a fantastic model and the sound decoder is pretty decent too for the money, but, as is the case with most sound decoders, the factory-fitted speaker is a little tinny and doesn’t have much bass response to it.
In this in-depth video, I show you all you need to know about upgrading/replacing stock TTS & DCC sound speakers with a far superior Mega Bass speaker, including rewiring, body preparation (for anyone who doesn’t have a sound-fitted model) and installation. The improvement to sound and bass response from these new speakers is fantastic.
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Jump to sections:
00:00 - Introduction
01:40 - Removing the body
03:15 - Speaker location options
04:38 - Choosing a new speaker
07:40 - Replacing the speakers
10:28 - Installing the speakers (dummy car)
15:03 - Installing the speakers (power car)
18:00 - Body replacement and testing
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The HST set featured is not a TTS-fitted model, however the steps involved in replacing the speaker are exactly the same for a TTS chip as they are a LokSound or Zimo decoder; the only difference being that a TTS and Zimo decoders must use an 8 ohm speaker, while the LokSound V4 can use anything between 4 and 16 ohms.
Speaker impedance and decoder specifications are explained in more detail in our free guide, which you can download here: tinyurl.com/dcc-sound-speaker...
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There are a variety of different retailers selling Mega Bass speakers (also called 'High Bass'). Here are some options:
ebay.to/2N4VMnf
www.coastaldcc.co.uk/products...
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Thank you very much for watching.
Please comment, like, share and subscribe!
Visit us at: www.strathpefferjunction.com
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Please note: If you choose to follow any of the steps or suggestions outlined in the video, you do so at your own risk and any damage or injury to yourself, your models, your equipment or others is your own responsibility.

[@drewliszka4186]

another great install video cant wait for the class 08 mate .

[@StrathpefferJunction]

Ah ha! Yes, the decoder arrived, many thanks. It'll be a wee while until I have the time to do the respray work on the shunter, but when I do, you'll know! 👍🏻

[@MatthewRailways50033]

Nice class 43 sound 👍👍👍👍😀😎

[@leilacentral1883]

Certainly a good amount of space to fit a better speaker. I'm in love with the sound. While not in the period that I model, I might have to make an exception and buy myself one of these. Looking forward to seeing and hearing these go around your layout in a future video.

[@StrathpefferJunction]

Thank you. Yes, and the sound really is improved by the bass speaker. I'm planning on doing a short comparison video next week, so it's easier to hear the before and after.

[@BritishRail60062]

Fantastic work on these HST's and I love those Valenta sounds which give me fond memories of when I used to ride them before Voyagers replaced them on the cross country routes.

[@StrathpefferJunction]

Many thanks! Yes, I love those engines. I used to get the train between Newcastle and Edinburgh a lot in the late 90s and used to love hearing the whistle of the valenta as the train pulled off. The mtu engines are just not the same!

[@BritishRail60062]

@@StrathpefferJunction Aye I agree mate although East Midlands Trains have fitted VP185's into their HST's. The MTU isn't the same but it kept those icons alive on most of the network until the IEP trains came in 2017. So it will be interesting to see where they will go. The 125 Group will probably use a few of them in the original liveries as they recently got a TGS Mk3 that was donated to them from Porterbrook leasing. I am getting the GWR HST pack this year but I am going to add VP185 sounds into it just to have some turbo scream to quell my withdrawal symptoms haha. All the best mate Ash.

[@StrathpefferJunction]

That's a fair point. I always forget about those VP185s. They sound pretty good, but like you say, better a new mtu than no hst at all!

[@SolarRailway]

I am so to tempted to put sound in my network rail measurement hst. Thanks for sharing how to change the sound speakers. Cheers Matt

[@StrathpefferJunction]

It's makes such a difference, and having sound in both cars really adds a sense of realism.

[@ef7480]

Love it!!

[@StrathpefferJunction]

Many thanks, PJ. 👍🏻

[@GalgormHall]

I’m still not convinced by sound in locos but even I got a bit of a kick from hearing those engines cranking up. Another cracking video from the man who, in my eyes, is the Voldemort of electrickery. Lol. Paul

[@StrathpefferJunction]

He who shall not be named, eh?! DDC sound is an interesting thing. I do understand many of the criticisms of it, but I love it nonetheless. I take it for what it is, not what it is not. It doesn't sound just like the real thing, but almost nothing in modelling is an extract replica. I think it adds to the enjoyment, but it doesn't make me think its actually a diesel loco or cmpower car, anymore than a 4mm model going round in a loft is!

[@onnomulder9775]

Great vid!! Great sound!!! Great job. Regards Onno.

[@StrathpefferJunction]

Many thanks, Onno

[@roadsandrails]

Great video, I was thinking of doing a how to video for fitting the megabass speaker into one of these but you have beat me to it! There's no way I'm going to do one as good as your video! really well explained

[@StrathpefferJunction]

Thanks, Richard. I was in the middle of doing this last week, so the timing meshed well (albeit completely unplanned). I also put a link to your ebay listing in the description. :)

[@roadsandrails]

I ordered one of the Valenta sets off eBay on Friday when it was 10% off the whole site using a voucher code, my job for tomorrow was going to be a quick video of how I put the speakers in! Now I've seen yours I think I may just do it as more of a running and sound demo video! I've got that and a n MTU one I've just fitted for someone so it might be good to show them both in the same video. Thanks for posting the link, I really appreciate it, you have so many views on your video's so far more people are likely to see it on yours than mine. Richard

[@StrathpefferJunction]

It'll be really interesting to see what you think about the MTU vs Valenta TTS sounds. I've not been entirely convinced by the MTU offering from Hornby, but I think (for the money) the Valeta one sounds more promising. It's not Bif, but then it's 1/3 of the price. A good option, not least for a set where you really need two sound decoders for it to sound right!

[@roadsandrails]

I uploaded a video yesterday, I didn't go into as much detail as you with the install but I did a before and after video with the Valenta HST which sounds really good with the megabass. I also recorded the MTU running too and included that at the end of the video. The MTU is a bit of a boring sound, the rev's don't really change as its going round but it sounds quite nice starting off. The Valenta is far more interesting to listen to. Yeah my chip of choice is still Legomanbiffo and you may know I know do a lot of work with him and Charlie, but I still think TTS is great for people working to a lower budget or those trying to get a feel for whether or not they like sound. I think you mentioned it yourself that the TTS sounds in many cases are as good as some of the 'weaker' sound providers who do sounds for the more expensive decoders. Something I completely agree with. I think its a good direction for Hornby who clearly need a bit of a boost at the moment. Richard

[@StrathpefferJunction]

Yup. Pretty much agree with all of that, Richard. I occasionally get a little frustrated with the lack of cv functions on the tts chip, but that's more down to it being based on their entry level decoder, not the sound side of it (having CV5 & 6 control would be a real improvement). Overall, it's a good option for many. Will check out your video later on. Many thanks. 👍🏻

[@stevethebaldyone]

i have dun this modification to my Hornby class 43 and it works brilliant the sound is fantastic. Brilliant video keep doing your videos there very interesting. steve mcleod.

[@StrathpefferJunction]

Many thanks, Stephen. I'm really pleased it's worked well for you. 🙂

[@JamesSmith-zv9nw]

Great video. I wish I could justify (or fit) an HST.

[@StrathpefferJunction]

Many thanks :) It's a lovely model. I've been getting jealous seeing so many folk running theirs around their layouts...finding it hard to fight the urge!

[@NewcastleCentralOOGauge]

I could tell when I fired up the new HST Valenta last week that an upgraded speaker would make a world of difference! Great that there's already so much space inside. Definitely something I'll look at upgrading. Iain

[@StrathpefferJunction]

The rolls Royce upgrade (albeit only available for loksound 4) is the big daddy speaker, that Legomanbiffo calls 'EM2'. They are the best available just now, but sadly don't work with TTS. The mega bass speaker in this video is a fair option. You can really feel the bass in your hands if you hold it when you're testing it!

[@NewcastleCentralOOGauge]

Yeah, and price-wise, it still then ends up fairly affordable (TTS chip + Mega Bass speakers).

[@StrathpefferJunction]

Indeed. Have you got an email address? Would like to share something with you - nothing dodgy, promise! Lol. If so, drop me a line at [e-mail]

[@NewcastleCentralOOGauge]

Sent you a message. Cheers.

[@kirktonroadjunction193]

What a difference the upgraded speaker makes, and it fits neatly at the back of the power cars too. Just watched a video of a Valenta powered HST with a Legoman sound file using a standard speaker. I'll take the megabass speaker any day.. Great video David.

[@StrathpefferJunction]

It really does make the world of difference. I hooked the dummy car up to one of those em2 speakers that you see in Deltics and it was amazing, but settled for the mega bass. You still get a good roar and whistle!

[@kirktonroadjunction193]

Yeah you can hear the Valenta engine roaring as well as that famous whistle, sounded really impressive. On the TTS decoder you get the whistle but no roar, so I'll see what they sound like with decent speakers fitted, if still no roar then I'll look to buy a couple of Loksound decoders from legoman or Olivia's.

[@ScottishNSRailFan]

Very helpful. One done, another eleven to go.

[@StrathpefferJunction]

Hehe. Best of luck with that!

[@tonymoney2275]

Hi David great video. I have purchased the class 43 hst with tts i don't know if i have got the nerve to convert a brand new loco but you are right it is a lovely model all the best Tony

[@StrathpefferJunction]

This is actually a great one to do, because there's loads of room and very little intervention is required. So long as you've got some back tack, a soldering iron and a steady hand, I'm sure you'll be fine. It does make such a great difference.

[@philllacey1844]

Great video. It would be more clear if the room light was not behind casting a shadow over the work. Needs an overhead light.

[@tulyar1043]

Listening to the improved sound of your HST takes me back to 1978 when they started running on the GN mainline. Standing next to one when the driver put on full throttle,because of the volume you could feel your whole body vibrate! Happy days. With only one car powered, can a full set of 8 coaches be pulled at scale Max speed? Thank you for this informative video.

[@StrathpefferJunction]

I'm really glad you enjoyed it. They're the sound of my childhood. I used to watch them at Waverley Station in Edinburgh. That turbo whistle takes me back!

[@mlevinlevington]

I believe that little box at the rear of the chassis, is a pocket for decoders. I believe it’s design is so you can drop a decoder in run tape over the opening.

[@StrathpefferJunction]

Hi Martin, yes, that's absolutely correct. It's ideal for putting Hornby chips in as they're not otherwise insulated. My query in the video was actually directed as the little column just next to the holder, which I've never found a use for. It stops halfway to the body too. Bit of a mystery!

[@mlevinlevington]

Ah my apologies!

[@StrathpefferJunction]

No need to apologise...I really appreciate you taking the time to assist!

[@raymondwillem6370]

Great video again as usual. How’s the layout coming on.

[@StrathpefferJunction]

Thanks, Raymond. It's getting there. I'm onto wiring all the buses and and network cables now. Once that's down, I'll get the boards fixed down and than it's track time! Within touching distance... :)

[@roberttemple8462]

Hi David, great video. I have an early upgrade HST in FGW dynamic lines livery which I think have fan assemblies inside. Do you think these will cause a problem during an installation of TTS chips. Regards Rob.

[@StrathpefferJunction]

Hi John. Thanks for the feedback. I suspect you will be able to fit in the mega bass speaker without removing the fan from be powered car, but given they've been known to adversely affect running, it might be best to disconnect it from the motor anyhow. From memory, I think there may be a plastic 'shelf' in the powered car behind the fans, which may have to be removed to fit a speaker as I've done in the video. If I'm right, it's just two screws.

[@roberttemple8462]

Thanks David. I'll check it out. Regards Rob.

[@DugmerJunction]

I have a question if i may ? :) I have just installed the TTS Twin pack into the Class 43, they are both set to default address 3 and run perfect, however when i press the whistle. the horns go off from the power car and dummy car, Would i have to set them up as a consist to resolve this? Also for some strange reason i am unable to re-program the dummy car to a new address when on the program track even though it works and responds perfectly on address 3 on the main line. (the power car allows me to reprogram no issues at all) I just keep getting the unable to read CV error. (NCE Power Cab)

[@StrathpefferJunction]

Hi mate. Yes, it's only Zimo and LokSound decoders that allow you to set two decoders up as matching pairs and thus have sounds playing only in relation to direction of travel. It is possible that you might be able to have only one Hornby via an advanced consist, but in all honesty, I've never tried it as I have matching loksound decoders in all but one set of HSTs, and the set that have tts decoders, I've not run beyond testing as my layout is not yet laid out! It's definitely worth a try with an advanced consist though. Regarding the programming issue, it's likely because the dummy doesn't have a motor and programmer doesn't therefore thing there's a decoder on the track as its not getting 'feedback'. One way to sort this is to put both power cars in the track and programme them as you want the dummy set up. Then take off the dummy and reprogramme the motored power car to how you want it.

[@DugmerJunction]

Strathpeffer Junction thanks for the advice, I’ll give that a try

[@jdaguiar]

so you dont need to buy a DCC decoder first you can just had the TTS sound onto it ?

[@Synthematix]

Its not the speakers that need upgrading its the sound files themselves, they sound very low bitrate and sterile, if anything though you need a speaker with a 12db reduction in treble, this will massively reduce ringing, this can be achieved with an inductor wired in series on the speaker wire also with foam in the train this will stop reverberation, all this said the sheer cheapness of these hornby trains proves theyre just toys really, compared to bachmann wow theyre solid metal chassis, also if you have 2 speakers wiring the polarity correctly is a must, otherwise they will sound out of phase, this will totally kill any bass response.

[@StrathpefferJunction]

Thanks for the comment. Matching polarity when using more than one speaker is absolutely vital, that's quite correct. The bit rate is also poor on these, but changing the speakers absolutely makes a positive difference when listening the the flesh. It's well worth doing regardless of the type of sound decoder you're using. It doesn't undo poorer quality sounds, but it does still make a positive difference. As you've also mentioned, so speaker placement is also an important consideration. With some models, there's little to no choice, but if you have a choice, you can carve out more from the sounds by careful placement. It all depends on what you want from sound locos too; some folk just want a bit of noise, whilst others want something as close to prototype as you can realistically get. I guess Hornby tts decoders cater more for the former.

[@Synthematix]

@@StrathpefferJunction Yea, im running everything in n gauge with a digikeijs dr5000 to obtain more realistic running lengths, even on my 5ft 5" x 2ft6" baseboard its unreal how much stock and track you can use, but whats amazing is these tiny non poole tooled farish class 37s weigh more than my hornby class 151, they are bloody brilliant and can run so silent and slow you literally have to check twice if its even moving lol. but youre right i suppose any sound is better than none, i only use zimo sound decoders and i have muffled the high range to create more realism instead of hearing cracking. choosing a speaker with poor high frequency response is actually the best option like the dual bass speakers etc. with zimo you can even add micro motors to make the sound amazing with realistic vibration etc, possibilities are endless mate

[@StrathpefferJunction]

@@Synthematix I really like Zimo, but only really discovered it after investing in a lot of ESU LokSounds, so I'm sticking with that for now. But if I was starting again, I'd go for Zimo. I also got a couple of new Farish 37s before Christmas and absolutely love them. Like you say, they're fantastic models.

[@Synthematix]

@@StrathpefferJunction Theyre so easy to work on arent they, bogies everything is a 2 second affair,

[@StrathpefferJunction]

I bought one N Gauge loco back in November all spur of the moment. Now I've got three. I just love them. So much better than they were back in the 80s. The detail etc is great now.