Review by Bob Brown
Electronics and wiring have always been my least interesting part of building a layout. However, I do have a functioning DCC system that works well. When I saw in 2022 that Soundtraxx was bringing out a new easier to use decoder called Blunami I became interested. I have finally purchased and installed a Blunami BLU-2200 in my boxcab gas locomotive (see Robert’s Ramblings in the May/June 2024 Gazette) and am pleased with it. The Blunami is a Tsunami decoder with a Bluetooth chip making it possible to remotely control the decoder from an iPhone (nine or later) or iPad. I chose my iPhone. The Blunami is about 1/8-inch longer than a Tsunami, but has the same width and thickness. They sell for $169.99 each. I ordered mine from Soundtraxx and was pleased with how fast in arrived.
I did have to download a free app into my iPhone (also available for Android users). My friend Cindy, who is computer literate, did this for me. The QR Code on the Blunami package took us into a site that requested a subscription and a credit card. However, the Soundtraxx site tells you to download your free app on the Apple app store using your mobile device.
The Blunami will work on DC, DCC, or Battery on Board (“Dead Rail”). You need at least 6-volts DC, but no more than 22-volts. I don’t know how the battery interface works.
Once I had my app installed, I tried it out. First, I addressed my Blunami on the programing track of my DCC system. I contacted Soundtraxx about addressing their new decoders and was told I could address it on their app system, but decided to use my DCC system since I was familiar with it. Then I powered up my DCC system, opened the Blunami app on my iPhone and a steam locomotive back head appeared. I clicked “connect” then “standard” and was told to wait a few seconds while things connected. Then I got a thumbs-up symbol and the screen came up with a throttle, reverse, forward, stop, lights, horn, and bells. Changing settings was easy, no CVs. To change the whistle I tapped a little whistle and my options came up. Same for all the other settings. Making it easy. No CV numbers to remember or programing. The throttle is very smooth and all went well.
I have read that the Blunami and app system is a DCC system. This is true. All you need is a Blunami decoder, 12-volt DC power supply (old power pack), an iPhone (who doesn’t have one in their pocket?) and download the free app. Plenty of videos and downloadable manuals are available and I found asking my question of Soundtraxx got an answer in a little over 24 hours. While I programed my boxcab locomotive on the Blunami, I run it on my DCC system. I don’t plan to change, but if I were starting over, I might start with a Blunami system.
Soundtraxx
141 Burnette Dr.
Durango, CO 81301
(970) 259-0690
