Model Railroading > Athearn Genesis factory speakers

Hi all.

I've got a couple of the recent runs of the Athearn Genesis Dash 9 locomotives, with factory sound and LED lights. From my research the factory speakers are 8 ohms, and wired in parallel (as they are two very small sugar cube speakers). So if I wanted to replace these with another "Single" speaker, do I need to look for a 4 ohm speaker? Or can I use an 8 Ohm speaker. 

Preferably I'd like to install a TCS SH4-C speaker, as I have lots of these in other locos and the sound is very good. On top of that, they are readily available here in New Zealand.

Keen to get other peoples perspectives on this.

Many thanks in advance.

Regards,

Allister
New Zealand.

Greetings Allister!

> So if I wanted to replace these with another "Single" speaker, do I need to look for a 4 ohm speaker? Or can I use an 8 Ohm speaker. 

If the amplifier is rated for 4 Ohms, it can drive a 4 Ohm speaker.
If it is rated for a range of 4 to 8 Ohms then either a 4 Ohm or 8 Ohm speaker is fine.  

You are wise to be concerned about the Ohm ratings of the speaker.  If the amplifier is rated for 8 Ohms and it is connected to a 4 Ohm speaker, the amp will be trying to generate more output than it can handle, and will fry.

Based on the factory circuit, the amplifier is rated for 4 Ohms.  It may be rated for a range, and could handle an 8 Ohm speaker as well.  However, you know for sure it can handle a 4 Ohm speaker.

Here is a video that explains wiring multiple speakers and the Ohms for series and parallel configurations:
     youtube.com/watch?v=gvaojICThzg&t=38s

Take care and God bless!
Dave
 



Edited 6 time(s). Last edit at 04/14/25 16:47 by tmotor.

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I would check the decoder for amp load  it may be 8 ohms . or email soundtraxx for info

Soundtraxx recommends no less then 8 ohms. Check out the note on the bottom of this page in the installation manual.

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