Both Proto 2000 and Precision Craft are releasing versions of the N&W 2-8-8-2, one a Y3 and one Y6. Both have sound. The price is not the same. How does one choose? Is the sound comparible? How about the little details or smoothness of running? Has anyone even seen one? I will take any advice that is offered.
I don’t know about the PCM model (I have seen one at a hobby shop and it looks nice, it just was not running) but I have two of the Proto 2000 2-8-8-2 from the earlier run. Although they do not pull that well, they are extremely nice and smooth. I got both of mine for around $180 a piece and they were well worth it.
the Y3 and Y6b are far different engines.
The N&W had the Y3 earlier, and the Y6b is the last operational design.
Illinois Railway Museum has a Y3.
for My choice its by far the Y6b.
They ran till 1960.
Both Y3s and Y6s ran until near the very end of all steam on the N&W.
The PCM Y6b is new, very nice looking and running, and quite pricey. One I heard sounds very good.
The P2K is not as new, very nice looking and running, and not nearly as pricey. The newer ones (with or without sound) also have traction tires if you are concerned about pulling power. You could outfit an older one with sound. If you get the undecorated version you can outfit is as one upgraded with the newer steam distribution piping. The P2K factory sound is QSI and quite nice in my opinion.
With any of them is you get one without sound you could add it easily enough. As delivered, the P2Ks sound like they are in simple mode, and the PCM can be switched to either one, but is set from the factory to start in simple and then switch to compound.
Both have good N&W whistles.
I plan to get a PCM. I have 5 P2Ks. It is your money and your choice. I got 3 P2Ks for a little more than one PCM is running right now, But I was patient. If I did not have either one, and was going to get just one, I would have to have a Y6b.
This is the most stupid question I have seen on this forum!!! When in doubt ALWAYS buy the more expensive product; we need to teach Life-Like a very well deserved lesson; they need to learn that they can’t get away with undercutting other manufacturers prices. What is this hobby coming to? Remember, the most expensive is ALWAYS the best!!!
Art, I hope I’ve been a little bit of help in assisting you in the resolution of this horrible problem.
I AM: