The TCS 1718 is a tough little 17mm x 12mm "Micro WOW" sugar-cube speaker hand-picked by Train Control Systems to fit in tight spaces — originally selected for the Bachmann N-scale Siemens Charger — but at just 2.25mm tall it slips into all sorts of HO, N, and other small-locomotive sound projects. It ships pre-wired with 4 inches (100mm) of twisted-pair 32AWG leads, so you can drop it in without crimping anything.
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TCS WOWSound decoders use an audio amplifier capable of supplying up to 2 Watts of power to an 8 Ohm load at maximum volume. Set your master volume to roughly 50% or less to prevent over-driving and damaging the decoder or speaker. The same rule applies to any DCC sound decoder rated above the speaker's 1W nominal continuous power.
Will this fit in my locomotive?
If the shell or fuel tank has at least 17 x 12 x 3mm of clear space, yes. TCS selected this speaker specifically because it fits the Bachmann N-scale Siemens Charger, but it's small enough for many other locomotives. Measure the space first — the wires add a little overall length.
What decoders does it work with?
Any 8-ohm-compatible DCC sound decoder — TCS WOWSound, ESU LokSound, SoundTraxx Tsunami2/Econami, Digitrax SoundFX. The 8 Ohm impedance is the universal standard.
Do I need to solder anything?
Not to the speaker — the twisted-pair leads are already factory-installed. You only need to connect the two wires to your decoder's speaker pads.
Should I add a baffle or enclosure?
For best bass response, yes — even a small sealed cardboard or 3D-printed enclosure makes a noticeable difference. But it'll still sound great without one.
