Massoth XLS problem with sound

[Tim Brien]

A friend recently purchased several XLS decoders from the local distributor and each one has a peculiar problem. Once the decoder is programmed to the desired sound file and installed in the locomotive it is tested using a parallel upgrade LGB digital controller. With sound applied and function '2' pressed the sound is extinguished (not muted) and requires power to be completely removed before sound can be reactivated. Motor function is normal.

When the loco is tested on an ESU Ecos all functions are normal. Massoth Germany were no help at all with a possible cause. The distributor stated that he had not seen the problem previously. The friend reloaded the file and the problem continued when using LGB controllers (he has several so the fault is not with a particular hand controller).

The other day I fitted an XLS for him to an LGB locomotive and sound function was normal using my NCE Procab system. Not happy with initial movement on speed step '1', I adjusted CV2 and tested again. When I pressed function '1' the headlights came on opposite to the loco direction and the sound extinguished. Removing and reapplying power reactivated the sound but subsequent function '1' operation illuminated the headlights and removed the sound, Before I adjusted CV2 using the NCE Procab, sound function seemed normal.

Odd that the decoders perform normally using an Ecos but do not like either the LGB or NCE digital systems.

 

[PhilP]

It is rather odd..
1. check parallel / serial settings..
2. check CV 29..
3. check version of FIRMWARE in decoder.. - If necessary, upgrade (incrementally) to latest firmware version, which matches the soundfile version.
4. if upgraded firmware.. Then reload soundfile.

A pain,and can take a while..

 

[Tim Brien]

Alas, latest available decoders with latest firmware plus latest version soundfiles. The Massoth programmer is also the latest version however, was updated to ensure most recent software. Tried another soundfile with same results. Soundfile exactly as downloaded. With the chip that I installed all seemed normal until I adjusted CV2 on the NCE.

Odd that all works perfectly on the Ecos but does not like the LGB or NCE systems. Two decoders so far are playing up.

 

[stockers]

You say a 'Parellel upgrade LGB controller'. Is this an older Serial unit that has been upgraded to 'P'?

 

[Ralphmp]

Interesting point about lights working opposite to loco direction. I had a similar issue after doing a recent firmware update to an older XLS. Being lazy, I simply swapped the front and rear light connections on the XLS to counter the glitch and so far all has been well. Firmware was latest version from the Massoth Service Tool (v4 I think).
Maybe there's a bug with this particular version and reverting to an earlier version of firmware and sound files would fix your issue.

 

[Neil R Atkins]

The problem seems to be sound files are not compatible with the latest decoders from massoth, after lots of frustration, I was trying to program it with a mogul and then a forney but both had the same issue, F2 for bell and the sound shutdown and the decoder went senile, cycle the power and was on again but F2 would always do the same, long story short I loaded the uintah file and the bell works and decoder is fine, I emailed massoth and I await their response.

Regards

Neil

 

[stockers]

Best to get the sound files pre loaded by a reputable dealer.

 

[Neil R Atkins]

I think I am quite sufficient in knowledge to perform said task myself

 

[Ralphmp]

Best to get the sound files pre loaded by a reputable dealer.

Agreed. The only reason I persevered with DIY decoder updates recently was I didn't want to write off an expensive XLS decoder. Whilst working through the hassle of getting firmware and sound file updates to eventually work was interesting, I won't be doing it again as I'd rather spend my time running trains. Appreciate others will have different views, of course.

 

[stockers]

I think I am quite sufficient in knowledge to perform said task myself

I am sure you are, and sometimes sorting it out can be part of the fun, or maybe, challenge. But I don't need the - to use your word - frustration.

 

[Neil Robinson]

I am sure you are, and sometimes sorting it out can be part of the fun, or maybe, challenge. But I don't need the - to use your word - frustration.

On one occasion I couldn't get a Massoth LS decoder to work as I'd like. It transpired that there was an issue with the particular sound file in this particular decoder only. As I'd purchased it with the file already downloaded by a reputable dealer the problem was sorted quickly and amicably at no extra cost.

 

[PhilP]

As someone having the doubtful pleasure of fitting these for others..
'We' (those dealing / fitting) are also frustrated when things do not work as they should..
The incompatibility problems between decoder model, firmware version, and soundfile version, are becoming quite a common problem of late.

There is also a problem with differing manufacturers Central Stations talking to decoders.. I use a Digitrax on the bench (less volts and current, when things are in bits). There are certain 'features' when working with some Massoth decoders. This is down to differing interpretations of the NMRA DCC standards by each manufacturer.

Once you know, then you can make allowances, and do final testing on (hopefully) the equipment the Client actually has. - Though it can be expensive to do this, of course!