I just bought Lionel’s JLC edition N&W Y6b, and I’m floored. I can’t say enough good things about it. When I recently entered the market for an O gauge Y6b, I was ambivalent about whether to buy MTH’s or Lionel’s version. On the one hand I had more experience with MTH large steam than with Lionel, and I prefer a prototypical chuff rate. On the other hand, Lionel’s model appeared to have more features and better detailing. I was willing to take my time in deciding and not let brand loyalty sway me. But after viewing video of both models in action, it took me about 2 seconds to decide.
Actually, the whistle alone sold me on the Lionel. I don’t know whether the real Y6b’s had a “hooter” like Lionel’s model. All I know is that Lionel’s whistle sounds like that of the real N&W 1218, and that’s OK with me because I loved riding behind her in excursion service. The 2200’s whistle is remarkably responsive to the sound activation button, and I can blow it with a finesse I’ve never experienced before. I think the echo is great too. It sounds more like what one would hear at trackside than in the cab. My wife looked in on me while I was running the model for the first time, and she said I was grinning like a little kid. And as for the prototypical shift from simple to compound mode, all I can say is it’s too bad I wasn’t around to see and hear the prototype. If this model can’t get you interested in steam locomotives, I suppose nothing will.
Overall appearance, smoke output, and running characteristics are great. The wireless tether really makes a difference in a model of this caliber. MTH, it’s high time for you to lose the umbilical cord, but I know it won’t be easy with most of your electronics in the tender. Clearly Lionel wasn’t (pardon the pun) blowing smoke when they stated that they had raised the bar with this model. If it proves to be as reliable as it is good looking, in the future Lionel’s competitors will have to work harder to get my hobby dollars.
Grant