09/08/2026
A new release from Auscision with some fine detail included, reminding us of those open-door commutes way back when.
DCCSound has developed bespoke speakers for these models as well as a custom sound project with remastered recordings from an original operating set.
https://www.dccsound.com/post/vr-harris-emu-by-auscision-models
Custom speakers: https://www.dccsound.com/product-page/auscision-models-harris-premium-speaker-by-dccsound
Sound packages available here for those wishing to upgrade their DC models: https://www.dccsound.com/product-page/auscision-models-harris-emu-sound-package?variantId=7ac1b331-d5ed-478a-84c8-fd9a107f8c99
Sound project: https://www.dccsound.com/product-page/vr-harris-emu-full-throttle-sound-project
Function mapping and sound flow:
F0 Headlight
The Harris cab switches were recorded and these feature when switching on the headlights. Only the leading end makes this sound.
F1 Panto up & traction motors
Similarly, the pantograph switch from the prototype (795M) was recorded. Again, only the leading end makes this sound. The traction fans then activate. The Harris DC traction motor hum is quite low frequency and tonal, so the sound project settings and speaker design had to be developed quite extensively to suit the structural dynamics of the model.
F2 Long horn
Variable length playable RVB 3 chime EMU recordings playback with this function. The horn is directional.
F3 Coupler
The leading end coupler sounds, including the sound of the knuckle and coupler bar as recorded from the Harris prototype.
F4 Doors, departure signals
Sounds of the guard’s and passenger doors from the prototype feature. When F4 is pressed, the sound of the guard’s door then passenger doors opening can be heard. There is a slight phase difference between sound decoders at each end, providing a prototypical train length of multiple doors opening. When F4 is deactivated, the guard’s whistle sounds, followed by closing of passenger doors, then the guard’s bell (for the driver), and finally the guard’s sliding door closes.
F5 Auto doors
Here users can simply open and close the power-controlled passenger doors as the guard would.
F6 Brake (FT)
Brake stand recordings from 795M feature with application and air brake release sounds. Activating the function button brings the model to a stop.
F7 Shunting mode
For ultra low speed control, F7 halves the motor speed at any speed setting.
F8 Windows
The sliding, ratchet windows featured on Harris sets have been recorded.
F9 Short horn
Press momentarily for a single short burst of the horn, for example departing a station, or press multiple times for a playable sequence. This horn is also directional.
F10 Curve squeal
In curves, the user may activate the function to provide for rail squeal sounds.
F11 Destination boards
This function enables illumination of the destination boards at both ends of the train.
F12 Route lights (directional)
Any combination of the seven different Melbourne routes can be selected for the leading end. Change direction and the same combination is now at the opposite end.
F13 Red markers (directional)
The trailing end red markers are activated.
F14 Windscreen wiper
A double arm wiper sound as featured on the Harris driver’s window is available.
F15 Headlight dimmer
Provides dimming of the headlight where required.
F16 Guard’s whistle & bell
The first press sounds the guard’s whistle; the second press sounds the guard’s bell for the driver to proceed.
F17 Taildisc
The trailing end disc sounds when activated momentarily.
F18 Compressor (mute)
The compressor activates after a traction fan start-up delay, and runs for some time initially to charge the system. When the train come to a stop, the compressor starts up. The compressor on the Harris was relatively quiet (compared with the Taits), though the compressor sound can be muted by pressing F18 if desired.
F19 Cab sounds (mute)
The Harris had a four-position control stand (minimum power, full series power, full parallel power and overdrive). As speed is applied one can hear these control stand sounds from the leading end. When the train direction is reversed, the sound of the reverser can be heard along with the sound of the control stand at the new, leading end. Cab sounds can be muted if desired by pressing F19, but is not recommended 😊
