Advice Needed on Steam Locomotive Purchase

[Anonymous]

My, thanks to everyone responding to my earlier inquiry concerning what steam locomotives could run on O-27 track. I have decided to retain my Lionel O-27 track and switches. I have narrowed down my search for a conventional steam locomotive in the $250-350 range to; (1) Lionel C & NW 4-6-4 produced in 1999 (model number 28000) available from a local hobby shop based somewhat on the old 726 body style, and (2) the soon to be available (I hope) Williams 2056 semi-scale Hudson featured in their Golden Memories catalog. Both engines feature a digital whistle and bell. Has anyone had a positive or negative experience or feeling about either locomotive? I very much appreciate your comments. [?]