I just purchased two Bachmann DCC equipped GP30’s on ebay. The price was right (about 30 bucks) and they came decorated in PRR. Not having any experience with Bachmann engines since the 1980’s I was not expecting all that much, but have been encouraged by what some others had posted.
I don’t have ability to do a detailed “check out” of the engines being that I am living in the geo bachelor quarters a couple thousand miles from home, but here are my thoughts of comparing these to a BLI GG1, P2K E8 and Athearn BB GP9.
Detail. Not as nice as the BLI or P2K, but definately better than the BB. Although not the cutting edge that is expected today, the Bachmanns definately pass my “3 foot rule” test. The trucks are done nice and the railings are acceptable. The lack of lift rings is not objectionable at any distance over a couple of feet. About the only detail that I think is somewhat less than satisfactory are the horns.
Running. The BLI has the Bachmann beats hands down in terms of smoothness and motor noise. The Bachmann growls a bit a low speed which may be a factor of lack of breakin, but the growl goes away at higher speeds. It is still relatively quiet when compared to the locomotives of 10 or 20 years ago. The starting speed is OK and it has acceptable slow speed running, although it is just a tiny bit jerky (which also may be a factor of lack or breakin).
DCC. The decoder is limited to 28 speed steps. As this is what I normally run, it is acceptable. Functions are limited, but all I really need, other than sound, are the lights. Of course the Bachmann doesn’t have sound. On the other hand, one doesn’t have to worry about purchasing and installing a decoder.
Bottom line, I think the Bachmann is a fantastic bargain. Yeah it doesn’t look or perform at the level of the top of the line stuff, but given the price it could very well be one of the best bangs for the buck out there. Given the comments posted here concerning the price of n