New Product: Blunami Wireless Decoder
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- čas přidán 25. 08. 2024
- Blunami will change the way you enjoy the model railroading hobby!
Introducing our newest Digital Sound Decoder line: Blunami. This line of decoders takes all of our industry-leading sounds and features and adds the ability to control the decoder wirelessly through your phone or other mobile device using the free Blunami App. It can be operated in three different ways: DC, DCC and Wireless mode (currently wireless mode is only available for iOS versions 8 or later).
BLU-2200
The first Blunami board format to be released is the BLU-2200, universal-style decoder. This decoder is suitable for use in both HO and small S-scale models. Dimensions: 41.9 x 18.8 x 6.8mm
Learn more:
Soundtraxx.com/blunami
Additional Blunami board formats will be announced soon for a variety of scales. Sign up for our newsletter to be notified: soundtraxx.com...
This is a big step and a good one.Many use Apps to run Locos nowadays.And the ability to adjust Cvs etc so easily is a bonus.And no need to have a DCC system.If this becomes available on Android,everyone can use it.Good one George and Soundtraxx.
Thank you!
This will be a great replacement idea for those who have some of Athearn's early Genesis locomotives with the wireless sound control but still using DC. - Jason
Yes. We are excited about how many different projects this decoder would be great for!
@@SoundtraxxDCC I’m gonna Try the 2200 and And Will get a 21Pin decoder later if I like the 2200 and If the 21Pin decoder is made.
@@railroadingfan3681 Awesome! We do have a Blunami Product Development Survey where you can place your vote for 21PNEM version to keep it high on our radar: soundtraxx.com/blunami
so instead of a bluerail board AND my 4400 Tusami sound card, its JUST ONE BOARD ? ?????. A game changer for sure...well done David.
Yes this is!
"Let's turn off the diesel and go back to the steam engine". Great call, George! Lol 😆!
This is a real advancement. Having everything integrated is much better. It lets less technical people access to the whole decoder. And the larger format capability on a tablet is a real treat.
Now if only I could get DCC ++ ex to work. 🤬😁
Yes we are very excited about all of this!
the DCC++EX guys on the DISCORD server are very helpful
@@geraldstewart :)
You are so far ahead of the curve it is remarkable. Wow.
Thanks!
Looking forward to giving this new product a run!
We hope you love it!
in the app you implement a macro function, programmable. A single touch and a sequence of various functions, including timed ones, starts
Do you have a question?
@@SoundtraxxDCC Is it possible to implement this possibility?
This is a game changer for sure. The MSRP is only a few dollars more than the regular 2200 decoder. Great for people wanting to try out DCC without the large cash layout for a commercial system.
Yes it is quite the opportunity for those new to the hobby who have not invested in a command station.
As Spock would say, "Fascinating!" I admit that I am jealous of the programming features. The idea of being able to immediately check the results of the setting would be very helpful.
Yes we are excited about this product!
Hi George, wow, this new decoder is out standing. I still have trouble making changes to CV settings. The Blunami will make it much easier and quicker to change the CV's for someone like me, and it should change peoples minds who are not changing to DCC because of the setup cost and the Hassel fitting DCC to an existing layout, now, it's just a matter of installing a Blunami and maybe investing in an iPad mini. Kind regards, Gary
Yes we are excited about this!
Love the vid "Goalie George" Love The MoPac! MoPac Jack
thanks
It would be nice to have a pre-set for a specific loco without going through every settings.
That would be a crazy amount of part numbers for retailers to stock. Blunami makes the set up easier than ever before!
Yes New Toys!!!!
Yes!
Any ideas on providing a diagram to reference for battery setups? Very curious about the recommended equipment needed.
We are looking into different battery options. Right now we don't have this recommendation/documentation, but it is on our radar.
Looks amazing. Since reentering the hobby after decades off, I wanted deadrail. That was too complex 5 years ago, so I looked at DCC. No way as a cheap bast$rd was I laying out that much money for a “system”.
Two things caught my eye: LocoFi, and DCC++. I’ve deployed both of these - including setting up an Arduino micro controller, the free JMRI base station, plus a cheap clean power supply and presto. $30usd for a fully functional DCC system.
LocoFi was much simpler - wire in their decoder, load the android app, put on the track (powered with the same supply as above) and presto. Simple throttle (very similar to BluNami) but… no steam sounds (still).
Not sure about relying on BlueTooth but will trust the connection stability is good - even for large layouts.
For optimal wireless range, it is recommended that you install the BLU-2200 decoder with the Blunami logo facing up and the ‘B’ in Blunami facing towards the front of the locomotive.
Wireless range: In the most optimal conditions (i.e. direct line of sight with no obstructions), we have achieved operating ranges of up to 150 feet (on a baseball field with no obstructions). Physical obstructions like walls or fences will reduce overall range.
This year’s killer app...being able to turn up and down the volume at a whim without having to remember the CV
We are glad you like this feature - not to mention not having to remember any CVs just walking through the app!
Wow! This is great. I wish you would modify this app to work with existing DCC Tsunami. No blue tooth, just use normal DCC communication. I’d love to use this instead of WiThrottle.
The app communicates through bluetooth, Tsunami2 decoders do not have this ability. The Blunami decoders have additional hardware to make this possible.
I understand. Just suggested possible additional revenue source for software company for DCC only companion product.
Man this has me thinking! Use a dc 12v power pack to power the blunomi, use the motor outputs to power the track for a small 2x6 n scale logging layout, place speaker under layout. Done, 2 amps output I imagine would be plenty for a atlas shay with 2 or 3 log cars behind....
Hmmm......
Just test your stall current on your loco if you are not sure. But if it is N-Scale the BLU-2200 will probably be too large to fit in the model.
I'm assuming you can put these in a G Scale train. Heck that would be a game changer for me as getting into G Scale for my backyard. Very nice! Looking forward to trying one of these out.
If they haven't made the 4400s yet, it would depend on the Amp stall of the motor.
The BLU-2200 is not big enough for G scale, but we are working on other board formats. Stay tuned!
@@TheTrainFreak thanks for the reply!
@@SoundtraxxDCC I also have G scale equipment, running DCC, including a recent install of a Large- Scale Tsunami in a Bachmann Large - Scale Climax; this could be interesting if I decide to do a battery - powered locomotive (I also have some Accucraft live steam locos, & they have unisulated wheels, can't run them with the DCC - powered equipment). I've been pleased with the Tsunami decoders I've installed in my HO equipment. Would the higher-current versions of these decoders have any problem running off AC power? I also have a tradional American Flyer "S" gauge tinplate layout, would be interesting to try to add this to some vintage American Flyer locomotives. :)
@@SoundtraxxDCC I also have G scale equipment, running DCC, including a recent install of a Large- Scale Tsunami in a Bachmann Large - Scale Climax; this could be interesting if I decide to do a battery - powered locomotive (I also have some Accucraft live steam locos, & they have unisulated wheels, can't run them with the DCC - powered equipment). I've been pleased with the Tsunami decoders I've installed in my HO equipment. Would the higher-current versions of these decoders have any problem running off AC power? I also have a tradional American Flyer "S" gauge tinplate layout, would be interesting to try to add this to some vintage American Flyer locomotives. :)
Certainly a novel ideal and will definitely appeal to some modelers for sure, but it will need an accessory decoder too though for points (turnouts), etc..
Easy add on / evolution
You can still use DCC or local control for turnouts. Remember, this is just at the beginning of this new product announcement! We will have to see what comes next!
thanks
I am so excited about this product! This really makes dead rail a no brainer. I run Tsunami2 exclusively (engines and cars). I will certainly investigate going dead rail. Will you have a soundcar version?
Right now we only have the BLU-2200 version, but we have other board formats in the works.
So...if 5000 people decide they want this new tech (which I love) and they use their current mode of accessing these apps, you will instantly lose 50% of those people all running an Android device. Isn't it tough to release a product and know that a 50% of it's proposed app users...can't use the product. Seems the cart was put in front of the horse here. Hope it finally makes it to the Android users also...increasing the possible sales by 50%. And wow...$169.95! That's a heck of a price point. Hope this new merged tech works out well and you can sell a load of them! Cheers!
We are not trying to exclude anyone. An android app is on our radar and the demand that we generate from this release will help push the android app forward. You can cast your vote for this in our Blunami Product Development Survey found at soundtraxx.com/blunami.
Reasons why the iOS version was released first: bluerailtrains.com/why-do-developers-release-ios-versions-before-android/
If I put a Blunami engine on my DCC layout does the track power have to be on?
If the model is not equipped with a battery, you will need track power.
App only for Apple system?
The android app is in the works now. The beta version is available now.
This is awesome. When do you project availability for N scale?
We do not have a time-frame for this, N scale will be more difficult than the larger scales. But you can cast your vote on our Blunami Development survey to keep this high on our radar: soundtraxx.com/blunami
Thank you for this video. It answered pretty much all my questions. In my opinion it would be foolish of you not to push for an Android-compatible app. Also, you apparently didn't search for "Blunami" on the internet before choosing it as your product name 😲
We do have an android app on the radar. You can cast your vote for this in our Product Development Survey: soundtraxx.com/blunami
So if I’m running on a DC power source, (ex: using the controls from Bachmann starter sets), does the track power have to be set on full 100% power?
Side note about the app… could there be an option of going into the app and looking at all of it capabilities without the need of being connected to a locomotive, similar to WiThrottleLite?
Or, are we able to use other DCC apps with this product?
Yes on the power question. You need to have a powered up Blunami to navigate the app interface. BlueRail has a detailed video that walks you through the app interface. czcams.com/video/ZwKzTVrm_6E/video.html
Thanks for the reply
I have my decoder in a brass tender, will the Bluetooth signal go through the brass? Will the brass tender reduce the Bluetooth range? Thanks
Shouldn't affect it, I have a buddy who has an MMI set up with Bluerail and it works fine.
thanks
While the range may be somewhat reduced by brass or a similar metal chassis, our range testing was still successful at up to 100 feet with an HO-scale Baldwin sharknose model (this was demonstrated on a baseball field with no physical obstructions).
I really hope you guys put a patent on this new way of controlling.
Thanks
Considering there has been another company doing bluetooth train control for a while they can't patent something they are not first in doing.
@@Suprzemodelworks thanks for the feedback
Excellent product, many congratulations. In the future, do you plan to develop a program for computers something similar to DecoderPro but specialized in SoundTraxx?
Not at his time, but we will keep the idea in mind
is it work on brass shell locomotives ?
Yes. While the range may be somewhat reduced by brass or a similar metal chassis, our range testing was still successful at up to 100 feet with an HO-scale Baldwin sharknose model (this was demonstrated on a baseball field with no physical obstructions).
George G.
Can the blunami added to existing tsunami 2 decoder.
No, it is it’s own decoder not something that can be plugged-in to an existing decoder.
Is there a way to get the throttle notch number to show somewhere for 1 - 126. It would be nice if there was a plus minus button for throttle notch control like on NCE controllers, one set for + - 10 and one set for + - 1 throttle control.
It does not say the throttle step, but if you tap instead of slide it moves two speed steps at a time.
George great product, I have several questions. At this moment you only have iOS app. Correct? When I use DC power pack should I only connect and move to ON ?
Yes, iOS only at this time. You can cast your vote for an android app in our Product Development survey at: soundtraxx.com/blunami
Yes, connect DC power 12-14v and connect via the app and run your train fully from your iPhone or iPad. This even gives you setup menus so you have full control over the setup and running of your trains!
@@SoundtraxxDCC Does Blunami work with all DC power packs? I have an MRC Tech 4 power pack.
If your create a new soundfile, can you load it to the decoder over the air without buying a new decoder?
No. the decoder cannot be reloaded with different sound files through the app. These are still pre-loaded into he decoder and selectable from the menus. You will need to still find the decoder “flavor” that your desired sound file is on and get the correct one.
Any chance of steam loco chuff sync (either via reed switch or optical sensor)?
It's one item a lot of "non-DCC" systems have and although I understand the decoder is more of a "DCC via Bluetooth" hybrid, it missing means it's another product I don't see myself using.
Chuff synch is through the BEMF of the motor control. The decoder senses the rotations of the motor through the BEMF signal to keep it in time (czcams.com/users/results?search_query=soundtraxx+chuff) and is very accurate. Sorry to hear you will not even give it a chance. This is offering a ‘best of both worlds’ option that will allow many to experience DCC control with or without a DCC system. However, we do still have Tsunami2 in production and you can still get the great features without the Bluetooth option!
Is this app coming to android
It is on the radar. Cast your vote for this in our Product Development Survey at soundtraxx.com/blunami
What about adding a Current Keeper? Is it built in or do we still add one?
It is not build in. You can plug one in just like the TSU-2200.
Will the Blunami work with On30 locos, like a Bachmann 4-6-0?
The BLU-2200 may work depending on the room available and the stall current of the loco. For the Bachmann Spectrum On30, Baldwin 4-6-0 we do recommend the TSU-2200. The BLU-2200 is just a bit bigger so it will probably work. You can contact our Support Team for more info: support@soundtraxx.com or (970)259-6690 ext. 22.
Learn more about BLU-2200: soundtraxx.com/products/blunami/blu-2200
When you change sounds via Bluetooth, does it save the cvs on the decoder the same way traditional programming on dcc would? If so this would make a very easy way to finetune these decoders.
Yea it does.
That will make programming such a breeze. Honestly my favorite feature so far is the new method to calibrate DDE. Does it also set the BEMF and other similar features in the process? Still really hopeful that by the time the new generation of Tsunami Decoders come out you guys add the fuel pump sounds into the diesels prior to engine start. And honestly it would be cool if you allowed for custom sounds to be uploaded similar to your competitor ESU. Honestly I like both products. But I lean towards Soundtraxx by default especially because they are made in the 🇺🇸.
Does the sound come from the decoder in the locomotive or the app on the phone like Bachmann EZ app locomotives?
From the decoder just like our Tsunami2. You get all of the same features and operation of Tsunami2 with the addition of wireless control via the app.
@@SoundtraxxDCC totally awesome 👌 👏 👍 😍
@@bigalspitzer thanks
This is fantastic George! Will there be any way to connect remotely with a Rapido, ESU, etc? I assume I’ll have to change decoders in those engines…. Of my 25 engines 7 are ESU decoders the rest are tsunami and Economi just so you know….
The app will only work with Blunami decoders. We do not have the ability to make it connect to any other brand decoder. The Blunami decoder has special hardware to connect to the app.
Is the way load your own sound file
That would good
No. All SoundTraxx decoders come pre-loaded with our high-quality sound files.
@@SoundtraxxDCC I am nzr modeling and of if you could put your own sound file would be used
@@matthewesler8379 thanks for the feedback, we will keep it in mind
will this work in an ho garratt
Sure, why not? As long as a BLU-2200 fits inside. I do not own one, so I cannot give you first-hand experience. Check out the dimensions on our website: soundtraxx.com/products/blunami/blu-2200
Will Athearn offer Blunami built in?
That is up to them. We do not at this time have an agreement/order for this.
Ran for 20 min. On DCC track power no problem with and without app. Switched to DC and immediately fried decoder. Went to website and of course it was down. How do I submit a warranty?
The website host is having issues and that;s why the website is down. Hopefully will be restored soon.
I am not sure how DC power 'fried' the decoder. Extensive testing is done before release, so in the meantime, be sure to check all wires to make sure there are no power leaks that could cause issue. Also make sure you are running below 21v or you will damage the decoder. This could be a case of a 'pulse power' power pack sending pulses higher than 21v. Make sure you use clean filtered DC for DC operation.
To return the decoder, we'd ask for the service request form off the website. Contact Support @ support@soundtraxx.com to get a copy.. Or fill out all pertinent info, name address phone, decoder, what happened, etc. so when our technicians get it, they can duplicate the issue and verify, then fix or replace it.
Thank you! ~G
What your take on track cleaning
The importance depends on how you are getting power to the locomotive. If you are using on board battery power, track cleaning will not be as important as if you are using track power.
@@SoundtraxxDCC thank
@@snafu3714 Let us know if you have any other questions.
The simple addition of bluetooth functionality is a great step forward, but I am not sure about the lack of Android support from the get-go.. Was this for any particular reason? It seems like a massive divide on first impression
There are several reasons that an iOS version was developed first. Learn more: bluerailtrains.com/why-do-developers-release-ios-versions-before-android/
🤯 🤯
:)
When will this be available in large-scale I want to use it in my trains
We are working on more board formats. In the meantime, you can cast your vote for this in our Blunami Product Development Survey found at soundtraxx.com/blunami.
What about Android, Chrome, Windows OS, Etc. When will those be compatible?
Right now the app is for iOS devices only, but we have others on our radar. We have a survey to collect data on how many people are requesting this if you would like to fill it out it can be found on our website: soundtraxx.com/blunami
Quick clarification, not sure if I missed this but you are still able to use a blunami equipped engine with a regular d’acc throttle as you would a regular DCC engine right?
Yes Blunami works in DC, DCC or wireless mode. You can only use it in one way at a time, but you can choose which one. For example, when using the app you cannot use your command station. But when you disconnect from the app you can use your command station. When using DCC Blunami will work with your other DCC decoders just like Tsunami2 would.
IOS only , because android is for kids lol this is awesome! how many locos can you store in the App?
There is no limit to how many models you can run with the app.
G scale G scale G scale. This mean that all my TSU 4400s are now obsolete. Can they be upgraded with just the blue tooth part? Wishful thinking.😁 Can you tell me if they'll come out this year? Next year? Will you make a CZcams video on the installation process? or will it be the same as the 4400?
We have a survey to collect data on how many people are requesting this if you would like to fill it out it can be found on our website: soundtraxx.com/blunami
Tsunami2 decoders can not be upgraded to Blunami decoders.
We are not yet announcing our next board format or when it is coming out at this time. Stay tuned!
Can you just use a power supply and if so, AC/DC & voltage?
Yes, just 12-14vDC is all you need. AC will not work.
@@SoundtraxxDCC But DCC feeds AC power through the tracks to the loco. So how does the Blunami get its power on a DCC track, if it is not compatible with AC?
When will you offer this for "n" scale?????
We only have the BLU-2200 right now, but we have more boards in the works. Cast your vote for N Scale in our Blunami Development Survey found at: soundtraxx.com/blunami
If "Blunami" was made in China, it would be 50. dollars for the G gauge one, that presently cost 160. USD. I think they could bring the price down. Otherwise, it is a good product. Meanwhile I'll stick to a cheap radio control unit, ESC, sound card and battery. About 60$ altogether.
We are very proud to keep our production in the USA. These are also top-of-the-line products with extensive sounds and features.
@@SoundtraxxDCC I understand that. Seems to me there is a larger market for a system that is more affordable even if it is built in part, in other nations. Obviously, we can now buy a 100-dollar G scale, fully remote-controlled, battery operated, complete "toy" train, with sound and steam. all the bells and whistles! Whereas the Western model train industry just discovered trains can run on rechargeable batteries on plastic track and be fully remotely controlled. I think they just don't want to get away from their high-priced products, made for retirees with plenty of disposable income. Next year I wouldn't be surprised to see the East will have a camera in the engineer's cabin so you can see the engineer's eye view on your phone. The West would want 500 dollars for that feature! Look, they add a thousand extra dollars on cars for a extra cup holder! We're so far behind the Eastern competition. I can't imagine why. I do know it's not because Eastern countries enslave all their workers. They are quickly by-passing American standards of living. czcams.com/video/LNtbIRvKmG8/video.html
Will the Blunami app released for Android?
An android app in on our radar, but you can cast your vote for this in our Blunami Product Development Survey found at soundtraxx.com/blunami.
Reasons why the iOS version was released first: bluerailtrains.com/why-do-developers-release-ios-versions-before-android/
@@SoundtraxxDCC side note is there a way to interface with Tsunami 2 cards instead of buying this and installing it in every unit?
@@theronerd The app cannot communicate with a non-bluetooth decoder. The Blunami has special hardware that allows it to communicate with the app. Tsunami2 decoders do not have this ability.
I'm curious about the longevity of running on battery power. Modelers intimidated by wiring their layout and implementing DCC would be able to avoid that cost and complexity. I see SoundTraxx entry into this area legitimizes this technology. They might be the ones that cause a disruptive shift in the hobby. No track power. No track wiring. No track cleaning. Powered/unpowered frogs, gone! Reversing loops, etc, gone. Probably won't happen tomorrow but the shift away from track power might pick up speed. I'll be watching for tests and development of loco battery power. Give my steam locos a pair of identical tenders. One powers the loco while one is charging. Hmmm...
Battery power certainly gives more options for ‘dead rail’. At this time, the battery technology will vary based on the battery chosen by the user/installer. There are many viable options and do still require charging to keep them running, but at this time, we do not have any immediate suggestions. CVP and their AirWire system have been using batteries for many Scales, so you may check their batteries and chargers for time. Motor current draw and load are always going to vary the length of battery power time.
How and/or if does your app work with normal DCC decoder equipped locos. I.e. can you control NMRA locos from the app. Is there some other interface required.
The Blunami app will only work with Blunami decoders. A Blunami decoder can be operated using your DCC system, just like a Tsunami2.
Will it replace the Tsunami 2 in Athearn genesis
That is up to Athearn. We do not yet have an agreement in place for this.
@@SoundtraxxDCC if they do it will be a great improvment
Will this work with bachmann ez app locomotives?
You can use the app to control EZ App locos.
Nice, thank you
thanks
Yes, the Bachmann trains will run via the same Blurail/Blunami app. Of course, the choices will be limited, but you can still control these locos with the app, Bachmann Bluerail controllers and Blunami.
The current WiThrottle app will automatically stop the train if you go away from the application and to another app, say to check email or bring up a browser. Will this app also automatically stop the train if you go away from the app while the train is running?
No. The loco does not stop running if the app loses focus.
It does not do this by default, but you can use CV 11 (on the app) to set this up. If you enter a value 1-255 the train will come to a stop when you navigate away from the app or loose connection. 1 = instant response, 255= the most delayed response.
Thanks for the reply, but this can be set up if a customer wants it. CV 11
Really cool product, but that price point.... ouch.
It’s not that much more than a Tsunami2 and it essentially can replace a command station. This is also MSRP, it is likely that you can find a better deal at a retail shop.
Once again behind. Ring Engineering does all of this and more. Railpro also allows updates and downloadable sounds. You only need one model module that way. It also self speed matches because the modules communicate.
All Tsunami2 features are available in this new decoder!
From what I can see, for day to day operation of a locomotive Blunami has it over Railpro. I can install a Blunami in a locomotive, put power to it and use an app on my phone and operate the locomotive and change settings without any other equipment. It doesn't look like you can do that with Railpro. I can have a locomotive running for just the cost of decoder and run it on any layout. Personally Railpro is the one behind the times.
@@fire5506 you most certainly do have to buy equipment if you don't have an apple device. Also the railpro modules are half the cost. If you buy three you saved enough money to buy a railpro throttle. You can do everything that the app does and more.
@@Suprzemodelworks the recommended minimum device for running Blunami is an iPhone6s plus usually obtainable on eBay for $50. You do not need a phone plan to use an iOS device to run a train.
I dunno man, let’s let the football style “odoyle rules” stuff go! Sounds like a great opportunity for ring to work with BlueRail and increase their footprint in the market. We need convergence not encampment.
Only for ios. Lame. Why would you make an app that only works on one OS? Not everyone is an apple fanboy.
We have android on the radar. You can cast your vote for this on our Product Development Survey at soundtraxx.com/blunami
Hmm, Why would you choose to cut out 90% of users since iOS is only 10% of the phones? Are you saying the Blunami is really targeted to kids since they have a much higher iOS adoption rate?
An Android app is on our radar. We have a survey to collect data on how many people are requesting this if you would like to fill it out it can be found on our website: soundtraxx.com/blunami
@@SoundtraxxDCC If you had an Android app, I'd be ordering right away. I'm not going to buy an IOS phone just to run a locomotive.
@Rich Jorgensen Now you know how we Mac users have been feeling all those years. Interesting btw that one user comment on this page claims that Android is for kids and you claim that kids are more iOS users.
@@macnavi His comment is just that a comment.
Poor excuse for a product debut video.
We are sorry that you don't like this video. We do have another announcement video on our page as well.
I have my decoder in a brass tender, will the Bluetooth signal go through the brass? Will the brass tender reduce the Bluetooth range? Thanks
The range will be slightly diminished in a brass shell (as compared to a plastic shell). You can maximize your range by installing your decoder so the Bluetooth antenna is as far as reasonably possible from the brass or metal casing of your loco.
While the range may be somewhat reduced by brass or a similar metal chassis, our range testing was still successful at up to 100 feet with an HO-scale Baldwin sharknose model (this was demonstrated on a baseball field with no physical obstructions).
thanks