Cannonball said:
Well, I know the artistic work is the main reason for the price jack. At $70 appiece, you're looking at around $350 for the whole set. However, I would almost be willing to pay the price difference for this one if the Bachmann On30's are good running sets otherwise.
I've never owned any of Bachmann's On30 stuff, although I've been sorely tempted. I was so afraid of giving in that I "forced" myself to spend about $200 on eBay on HOn3 equipment instead. My real issues with On30 are 1) there is too much good stuff to buy, and I'll end up blowing the budget; and 2) structures take up too much space. So I have challenged myself with 1900 era HOn3 instead.
By the reports I have seen and heard, the Bachmann On30 is the same quality level as their HO Spectrum line. Nicely detailed, smooth running, with once-in-a-while quality control issues. They do stand behind their stuff, though. I believe the original run Porters had some problems with electrical pickup that have been fixed since.
If you are buying the set, you might consider skipping the track and power pack if it will save you any money. Buy some Atlas (or Micro Engineering flex if you want a more scale appearance) track, and an MRC power pack. Or go big time, and install a Tsunami sound DCC decoder with a DCC system and enjoy wonderful sound with your viewing pleasure.
But again, you are playing with fire. With reasonably priced Porters, 2-6-0s, outside frame 2-8-0s, a rail bus, a Shay, a Climax, and a diesel critter just from Bachmann, you'll soon be selling your Marx to buy more On30.
let the journey to the dark side begin...
