I've settled on getting a smaller, 0-4-0 or 0-6-0 steam semi-scale switcher, definitely something with command control, and in the PRR livery. My layout is small, and every inch matters, so I'm avoiding the longer 0-8-0s unless someone convinces me otherwise. Seems like my options are:
- K-Line, K-Line by Lionel, or Lionel 0-4-0 - I know some of these are or are close to scale-sized but think they'd be fine. These are abundant with TMCC/RS but I haven't seen that they include Odyssey/Cruise. That's a deal breaker for me unless I could find a bargain and attempt putting in Cruise-M myself.
- Lionel LC+ 0-4-0 - If option 1 doesn't include Odyssey/Cruise, then this seems like a more cost-effective option, also plentiful, and right now my most likely candidate.
- MTH Imperial - I don't own any MTH engines and would prefer to avoid the cost of a TIU and PS since I'm so deep into TMCC, but I do like these. They appear to have more detail than the others above and also come with the 4 chuffs/revolution, so I'm intrigued about going this route.
If I open up to options beyond LC+, that's opening Pandora's box. I've noticed that there's very little difference in dimensions between the MTH Imperial and MTH Premier 0-6-0s (scale), but mainly differences in detail and price ($200). Same goes for the scale Legacy Lionel version. Not sure I want to spend $600+ but would hate to spend $400 and be disappointed if I can spend $600 and get everything I'd want.
I have only semi-scale rolling stock. Would any of these, including the scale options, look better or worse? The reason I ask is that the Lionel Legacy/Scale item says Scale Type = Traditional on the website even though it's a scale engine and also because the differences in size of the MTH versions are negligible.
Anyone have any pics?
