BLI UP Mountain or Athearn Challenger

[Fergmiester]

So who makes a better Locomotive? I'm looking at a BLI UP Mountain or a Athearn Challenger.

Which sounds better and is a better all round loco.

What are your experiences?

Fergie

[nfmisso]

BLI uses QSI® sound, which is superior to Athearn's MRC system.

If you are collecting UP, you need both locomotives.

It has been suggested using Lionel's QSI® system, with Athearn's Challenger locomotive........

[Anonymous]

Both! I don't think the BLI UP 4-8-2 has been released yet (trust me I'd have one). BLI's are smooth runners, and have superior sound. The Athearn 4-6-6-4s are smooth runners, but have so-so (who am I kidding it sucks) sound. I'd still buy both though.[:D]

[AggroJones]

Go for the Challenger. Its more intresting to watch in motion and has more tractive effort.

[twhite]

Fregie: I bit the bullet and got an Athearn Challenger (swore I'd NEVER get a UP clone), but I got it in Rio Grande, ha-hah! It's one HONEY of a loco, and a tremenduous puller! the radio control in DC takes a little getting used to, but it's got nice control, pretty nice sound (the whistle is a crack-up, but then so is the whistle on the prototype!). My only gripe is that Athearn set the drivers in tandem, instead of alternate, and I don't feel like going into the loco to reset them. Otherwise, it's a greally FINE loco!
Tom