ESU LokSound 5 L DCC/MM/SX/M4 "generic", Pinheader, Retail

Sound files can be loaded to the decoder, simply note the S0 file number in the box on the product page. A LokProgrammer can be purchased separately, however that it is not necessarily required as decoders can be purchased with sound files preloaded and CV Changes cane be done using control systems. Click HERE to view the current sound file listings.

ESU decoder ship to us blank (or mute, or no pre-loaded sound file, or...) unlike other decoder options that we offer.  The ESU Sound File Library offers hundreds of highly detailed and extremely precise sound options for North American and European prototypes for modelers to choose from.  You can also find many OEM-specific Sound File options in the library but please note that some manufacturers choose to maintain their own proprietary files which must be sourced directly from them.

ESU offers the ESU 53452 LokProgrammer Set and ESU 53900 LokTester DCC Decoder Test Station which can be used to load sound files, update decoder firmware, program CV values, test and troubleshoot decoders or installations, and even to create your own custom sound files.  Please note, you must use the ESU LokProgrammer to load sound files or update firmware on the ESU LokSound and ESU LokPilot decoders.  You can program CV's on any ESU decoder in Service or P.O.M. mode using your ESU ECoS or CabControl Command Station, any NMRA-compliant programming device or software such as JMRI/Decoder Pro.

SBS4DCC will preload any sound file from the ESU Sound Library with the initial purchase of an ESU LokSound Decoder for no additional charge upon request.  Please note, SBS4DCC also offers Custom Sound File options but some of these are offered with a surcharge for use.  SBS4DCC will pre-load third party OEM and non-OEM files in most circumstances but a processing fee may apply.  Please CONTACT US to discuss your specific project or needs.

There are two ways to request that SBS4DCC pre-load a sound file when you purchase an ESU decoder from us. 

The preferred way is to enter the Sound File Number (also called the Article Number having the format S0501 or S0851, etc.) in the space above labeled "REQUEST A PRELOADED SOUND FILE (NUMBER OR NAME):".  You can enter a prototype model or prime mover type if you are unsure but using the number guarantees you will get the exact file you want.

The second way is enter the same information noted above in the comments field at checkout but those notes will print on the shipping label so best to use the space provided.

As always, CONTACT US with questions.

LokSound 5 L is intended for use in all applications where the required power exceeds the limits of LokSound 5. Ideally these are 0 gauge vehicles and also smaller 1 gauge locomotives. Despite its compact dimensions of only 50.8 mm x 25.4 mm x 14 mm it is equipped with a dual speaker output and integral PowerPack.

The LokSound 5 is equipped with a multi-pin connector and is supplied ex works with an adapter board featuring solder pads.

Operating modes

Like all products of the LokSound family the LokSound 5 L is a true multi protocol decoder. It supports DCC as well as Motorola®, Selectrix® and M4. Of course it supports 14 through to 128 speed steps as well as 2 and 4 digit addresses in DCC format and up to 32 functions. Thanks to RailComPlus® the decoders register themselves fully automatically on suitable command stations.

This decoder supports all DCC programming modes and thanks to RailCom® you may read out the CV values on the main, provided you have a command station supporting RailCom®. There are utility registers for command stations that only facilitate programming of CVs ranging from 1 to 255.

Motorola® users benefit from up to 28 speed steps and 255 addresses. Three additional Motorola® addresses facilitate triggering of 16 functions. An integral programming mode even allows programming with the good old Control Unit 6021.

The M4 protocol supports the automatic registration on mfx® compatible central units.

The LokSound 5 L decoder supports Märklin® braking sections just as well as the ZIMO® HLU braking commands or the Lenz® ABC system. Braking with DCC brake generators or with DC is also possible. Furthermore the locomotive with a LokSound 5 L will come to a halt when a Selectrix® braking diode is switched into the circuit. The ABC push-pull feature enables automatic commuting between two stations.

The LokSound 5 L decoder is also suitable for analogue DC and AC layouts.

Sound

The LokSound 5 L decoder can reproduce up to 10 channels simultaneously. Each channel offers up to 16 Bit / 31250 kHz and thus we have finally achieved hi-fi sound quality on your layout. For all practical purposes one cannot detect any difference to the original. A dual class D audio power amplifier with up to 2-times 3W output power feeds the speakers with a permitted impedance of 4 – 32 Ohms. The huge 128 MBit sound memory assures sufficient storage capacity.

The volume of all individual sound fragments may be adjusted separately. The outstandingly flexible sound engine without a rigid flow chart facilitates a prototypical simulation of all conceivable rail vehicles. Three separately adjustable braking functions and two alternative load scenarios provide you with maximum control of your vehicles.

Functions

Every LokSound 5 L decoder has 11 amplified function outputs. On top of that there are another 6 logic outputs, which can, if so desired, control two RC servos or SUSI extension modules. Of course, all important lighting functions are supported. The brightness of each output may be adjusted separately. The decoder supports the automatic push and pull movements – known as the coupler waltz - required for the reliable function of digital couplers such as the ones by ROCO® and Krois® as well as Telex® couplers. 4 sensor inputs may be employed in order to trigger functions.

Motor control

Motor control of the LokSound 5 L has been further improved. A variable PWM pulse frequency ranging from 10 kHz to 50 kHz assures perfect silent operation, particularly for coreless motors. Thus the typical hum is a thing of the past. Load control can now be adjusted with up to 10 separate CVs and thus will manage even the most difficult cases. The unique “Auto Tune” function facilitates the automatic calibration of the decoder to perfectly match the motor. The LokSound 5 L decoder supplies ample current for the motor, namely up to 3.0 A.

LokSound 5 L DCC

The LokSound 5 L DCC is made for the North American and Australian markets. It is a pure DCC Decoder, which supports RailComPlus and can also be used on DC layouts.

Decoder Specifications:
Size: 50.8 mm x 25.4 mm x 14 mm (2.0 in x 1.0 in x 0.56 in)
Interface: Pin header with Adapter Board
Motor Rating: 3 A Nominal
BEMF: Motor control with 50 kHz clock frequency
Functions:  11 amplified outputs for special functions (total: 17 outputs)
Sound: 
32-bit processor
Digital class "D" amplifier with up to 3 W power
10 sound channels can be played simultaneously
Each channel in 16-bit resolution and 31250 kHz sample rate
Nominal Speaker Impedance: 4 - 32 Ohm
Protocol: DCC with RailComPlus®, M4, Motorola® and Selectrix®
Additional Features:
Updatable with ESU-LokProgrammer
Two-stage heavy load simulation
3 new, individually adjustable brake controllers
Connection possibility for 2 RC servos
Double power amplifier for controlling 2 loudspeakers
PowerPack storage capacitor as standard
Technical specifications

Operation under DCC with RailComPlus®, M4, Motorola® and Selectrix®
32 functions switchable (depending on the control panel)
32-bit processor
Digital class "D" amplifier with up to 3 W power (LokSound 5 XL: 13 W)
Each channel in 16-bit resolution and 31250 kHz sample rate
Noise memory with 128 Mbit capacity
Motor control with 50 kHz clock frequency
RC servos and Susi modules can be controlled
3 new, individually adjustable brake controllers
Two-stage heavy load simulation
Updateable with ESU-LokProgrammer
 LokSound 5L
For sizes 0 and I
Motor current 3 A
11 amplified outputs for special functions (total: 17 outputs)
Connection possibility for 2 RC servos
Double power amplifier for controlling 2 loudspeakers
PowerPack storage capacitor as standard
Dimensions: 50.8 mm x 25.4 mm x 14 mm