Roco 71396 H0 - DRG class 38 (P8) steam locomotive DCC with sound, era II

H0 scale DRG class 38 (P8) steam locomotive with sound decoder

This H0 scale (1:87) model represents the class 38 steam locomotive (formerly the Prussian P8) of the Deutsche Reichsbahn-Gesellschaft, produced by Roco. The locomotive is depicted in a version with a boiler without smoke deflectors and equipped with Reichsbahn-style gas lighting lanterns. The model features a digital PluX22 sound decoder and realistic LED lighting.

• Scale: H0 (1:87)
• Length over buffers: 214 mm
• Type: steam locomotive class 38 (P8)
• Railway company: DRG – Deutsche Reichsbahn-Gesellschaft
• Era: II
• Two powered axles
• Two axles with traction tyres
• Flywheel ensuring smooth running
• LED lighting: dual headlights depending on direction
• Digitally switchable cab and running gear lighting
• Digital sound decoder: PluX22
• Decoder interface: PluX22
• Minimum radius: 358 mm
• Control system: digital (DCC)

The model features a high level of detailing with finely spoked wheels, a prototypical smokebox door and numerous separately attached details such as handrails and fittings. The locomotive is equipped with authentic Reichsbahn lanterns intended for gas lighting, faithfully representing early DRG era locomotives.

In digital operation additional lighting functions are available, including cab lighting and illumination of the running gear. The integrated PluX22 decoder provides realistic sound effects, significantly enhancing the authenticity of operation on a model railway layout.

About the P8 / class 38 locomotives

The P8 steam locomotive was developed by the Prussian State Railways as a versatile passenger locomotive for growing passenger and express train services. The design proved highly successful and became one of the most widespread steam locomotives in Europe.

By 1923 more than 3,700 examples had been built by German manufacturers. Under the Deutsche Reichsbahn classification system these locomotives were designated class 38 (38.10–40). They delivered around 880 kW of power and were capable of speeds up to 100 km/h.

Due to their reliability and versatility, P8 locomotives remained in service for many decades and were used by numerous railway administrations across Europe. During the early years of the DRG many locomotives still carried the earlier olive-green and red-brown livery before the later standard black and red colour scheme became common.

About the manufacturer – Roco

Roco is a renowned Austrian manufacturer of model railway products known for high-quality craftsmanship and accurate reproduction of real railway vehicles. The company offers a wide range of locomotives, coaches, freight wagons and track systems in the most popular modelling scales. Roco models are appreciated by hobbyists for their detailed design, reliable running characteristics and extensive selection of railway vehicles from different eras and railway administrations.