what's the difference...

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

between Bachman Plus & Spectrum

Thanks
Pat

2

Spectrum runs, looks, & sounds better but to start DONT get bachmann Athrean, BLI, Proto, & Kato are your best bets.

3

Sorry a grammar err, get all listed above EXCEPT bachmann

4

I would not write off Bachmann altogether. There are some very good looking and good running Bachmann Spectrum models. Just be careful because as they say… your mileage may vary.

While I’m at it I will also point out that mac 4884 is mostly right. The other manufacturers do often have superior models. But Bachmann models can be picked up at a substantial discount which makes them a very attractive option.

5

true

6

The Bachmann Spectrum F40PH is a great model. It runs well, and even has the little strobes on the roof. The only negative I can think of, is they can be a bit noisy.

7

Cheap, OK running, mediocre detail, sounds grindy, that’s all my spectrum engines. Good for long consists that are cheap and without good detail.
Matthew

8

Bachmann Plus was a lower quality shell on an older design of a Spectrum drive. Spectrums have better detail and, more recently for diesels, a better drive that I think beats any Athearn diesel. I personally think that both the old and the new Spectrum diesels are excellent, but others will tell you that the old Spectrum diesels are terrible.

9

Hee, hee, I love dissension. [:D] To me, if a loco of any type can be had for the right price, and if I were willing (and…cough…able) to upgrade it for a modest investment in time, energy, and expense, I would get it! If a $23 steamer could be “fixed” and DCC’d for under an additional $30, it might be worth it if a better version could not be purchased for less than $80-100.

[2c]

10

You’re almost right. Bachman Plus were older Bachmans that were upgraded to Spectrum drives and better handrails and some other detail upgrades. The GP-30 and SD-45 come to mind.

11

I have 3 Spectrums, they all run ok, and they were all inexpensive. They also are models of engines/roads others don’t usually model, i.e. NH 44 tonner, NH E33, and an NH Light Mountain. The drives look less robust than my Proto’s but we’ll see how they hold up over time. J.R.