SurroundTraxx

I just ran across this. Sounds real neat. I was going to put it in the DCC Forum but you don't need DCC to use sound.

> SurroundTraxx is a state-of-the-art sound system designed
> especially for multi-train control.
>
> SurroundTraxx begins with a multiplicity of audio speakers
> that are strategically placed in hidden locations around
> the layout. Then using the latest Digital Signal Processing
> (DSP) technology and advanced block detection techniques,
> SurroundTraxx faithfully reproduces the sounds made by
> each train on the layout and directs the sound to the
> speaker closest to the trains' location. As a train moves
> along its route, SurroundTraxx makes continuous adjustments
> to the sound level of each speaker so that the sound appears
> to follow along. SurroundTraxx does not simply switch the
> sound from speaker to speaker but uses an intelligent cross
> fade algorithm that factors in train speed, direction and
> distance between speakers. Additionally, SurroundTraxx will
> add ambient effects to simulate operation in varying terrain
> such as the reverb that occurs when the train plunges into
> a deep canyon. While it is aimed primarily at those modelers
> working with equipment where on-board sound isn't practical,
> it's sub-woofer mode can also be used to enhance on-board
> sound as well.
>
> Each SurroundTraxx system is capable of simultaneously
> reproducing sounds up to six locomotives and directing
> those sounds into an equal number of speakers. If a
> situation occurs where two or more locomotives are in
> the same location such as on a passing siding, the sounds
> for each locomotive will be gradually mixed together
> as they approach each other and then separated as they
> leave.
>
> SurroundTraxx is scalable and can exchange audio signals
> and block detection information with up to 2 additional
> systems for a total capacity of 18 simultaneous locomotive
> sounds mixed over 18 speakers. If more speakers are needed,
> additional SurroundTraxx systems can be added though they
> will not be able to exchange data with the first three
> systems and must be operated in parallel as an independent
> system(s).
>
> SurroundTraxx is a sound system for not just the locomotives,
> but also the entire model railroad. Each speaker can be
> programmed with any of a number of environmental effects
> that can run continuously, randomly or change with the time
> of day. For example, SurroundTraxx can create effects for
> running water, thunderstorms, roosters crowing at sunrise,
> or rush hour traffic with an occasional accident. Other
> environmental effects can be trigged by an approaching train
> such as a grade crossing signal or the clickety-clack of the
> wheels.
>
> SurroundTraxx is designed for use with any DCC system based
> on the NMRA standards. While SurroundTraxx uses Digitrax's
> patented transponding block detectors for train identification
> and detection, it also provides the necessary infrastructure to
> allow the use of this technology with non-Digitrax DCC systems.
>
> Each SurroundTraxx system requires 1-1/2 Digitrax BDL-16 and
> RX-4 combos to be installed into the layout. Each train must
> also be equipped with at least one transponder or transponding
> decoder. (Note: The NMRA and Lenz are also working on a
> two-way train identification technology- when they become
> available, we plan to support their detectors as well)
>
> SurroundTraxx is affordable and will be priced under a million
> dollars! The product is however, still under development and
> it would be pre-mature to announce a release date at this time.
>
>
> Steven Dominguez
> Chief Engineer
> SoundTraxx