MTH scale GG! and Lionel Vision Line comparison

Alex, be prepared for a range of responses here, as we've discussed this from a variety of angles after Lionel announced the VisionLine GG1's.  But I'll try to give you an objective perspective as best as I can.  It won't satisfy everyone, but I'm not foolish enough to even try traveling that road.  

In short, from a raw price/performance standpoint, the new MTH PS3 models  -- or even the former Lionel JLC models -- win hands down when you're solely looking at this from the "biggest bang for you dollar" perspective.

Now that's not to say you shouldn't consider the VisionLine models, as they do have their merits:  detailed rivet bodies (on some models), simulated pentagraph arcing effect, and stereoscopic audio w/multiple speakers, etc.  From the Railsounds perspective alone, the VisionLine models blow the other GG1's out of the water.  In fact, the VisionLine GG1's are THE first locomotive that does ANY justice whatsoever to what I previously refered to as the "sick cow" diesel horn.  Lionel FINALLY worked through the dynamics of that horn, so it now sounds very respectable for something purchased in 2017.

But fast-forward to the bottom line...  I don't think you can "financially justify" the price of the VisionLine GG-1's when the price differential of the other models is so great.  However, if you "feel good" about parting with your hard-earned dollars, then the VisionLine models are worth the premium price of admission.  But only you can make that call.  It's strictly personal, and there is no right or wrong answer.

David

I've yet to see photo close ups of the Vision Line riveted GG1. For me, that would be a deal maker or breaker, since the rivet detail is what will separate that model from all the rest. There's something about rivets that make any model look neat, but to others it may not be important. Can anyone share close-up photos of that model?