GE hybrid

I love my Lionel version, great sound , die-cast, extra detail including cab. Realistic smoke.

However I have not seen the MTH version firsthand so I can't say how they look side/side

thanks chris, from what i have seen on youtube i love the lionel take of it. but i see the prices going up on it so i may have to settle for the mth  

As Rod Serling used to say, "Submitted for your approval..."

- Mike

- Mike

I have had the Lionel and MTH side by side and I can say the MTH is a little better detailed. The Lionel version also has it's points, diecast, proto type smoke unit, etc. But the price difference and the engineering car from MTH puts theirs in  front for me. Plus the horn in MTH's hybrid is spot on, Lionel's is not. Neither is a bad choice.

Dave

I have the MTH version, I believe it is better engine for one very important reason I can hear it when other trains are running whereas the Lionel version has great sounds however I can not hear them when other trains are running. Something going on with Lionel volume it is just not loud enough for me. It is just not me others are aware of it also. The last four engine I purchased from Lionel have weak volumn, does anyone know of a fix. I did eveerything Lionel told me to do to turn up the sound but still they are very enimic, two steamers and two Diesels.

mike im guessing the top one is the lionel

Yes, you're right.

One thing to MAYBE add into the mix. 

The MTH unit has for sure bidirectional sequencing charging lights.  One direction for charging the other direction for discharging.  To be clear when discharging the lights sequence from each end toward center, then from center toward each end when charging.  I had been told but do not empirically know for sure that the Lionel charging lights only run in one direction.  HOPEFULLY someone here that owns the Lionel version can clarify because it is hard to believe that Lionel missed this feature. 

The Lionel lights are Bi-directional, it's quite a show

Thanks for the pics.  The Lionel version has the independent front pilot that can swing independently of the truck swing.  Does that result in a smaller "gap" between the pilot and the frame?  Thanks in advance.

The MTH model also has the "swinging pilot", however the MTH model can be ordered with 2-Rail scale wheels and FIXED PILOT, i.e. NO gap at all (item No. 20-2986-2). Then all you have to do is change out the wheels to "Hi-Rail wheels", and mount Kadee scale size couplers.

I have the Lionel and like it.  Will also get the MTH - would like to compare the two, side-by-side on my double mainline!  These are very cool locomotives.