I’m bracing myself to move up to TMCC not so much because of the controls but because of the sounds. I REALLY want to have a steam engine that sounds realistic however I only have 036 curves and a small layout so the engine has to be able to fit.
Secondly, I’ve heard a few and of those most were rather disappointing, sort of ‘not bad’ but hardly impressive. Getting my LHS to test run engines for me is like pulling teeth! It CAN get done but very grudgingly and not more than once or twice on a slow day.
So which Lionel steam engine fits the bill in your opinion?
My alternative is to run one of those sound systems. MRC made one I have seen for sale but I havent a clue as to how or if they synchronize to the throttle and whether the effect is convincing.
So I would welcome some informed opinions. Sound samples would be even better!
I bought my son one of the Lionel Jr. Berkshires and it runs and sounds great. Perfect for O36 curves, die cast loco and tender, coil coupler on tender, and smoke which is syncrhonized to the chuff. They can be had for around $200-$250 right now at some of the big mail order dealers. Just review the specifications to be sure it includes the TMCC/Railsounds features. Another good option is the Baby Mikido which has similar features in the same price range.
Well, STAY AWAY from trainsounds, and stay with Railsounds because that type of sounds are much much better. One engine I would suggest is the traditional sized mikado. They have really good sounds. If you see an engine you would like, just ask what type of sounds it has, either trainsounds or Railsounds. Trainsounds sound cheap and it is not realistic.
You may want to take a look at the K-Line Southern Mikado that Justrains has for $275. I got mine in, but it is a Christmas present from SWMBO and so I have not run it yet. Doug mentioned that one of the guys at the club brought one in and that he was impressed.
As I had written for Dennis, the semi-scale Southern Mikado is one sweet steamer for the price. Great sounds, both steam and whistle/bell, as well as great slow speed ops and control. IMHO [tup][tup]
There is a K-Lionel Semi-Scale Hudson NYCentral which was in the 2008 Vol #1, which is about $500.
It has TMCC and Railsounds. We tested the sounds last Saturday and gotta tell ya, it sounds AWESOME! I MAY be getting for myself later, but we’ll be putting it through it’s paces Saturday!