Anybody seen a good review or can give me their opinion about these 2 engines?
Whether these products would work for you depends on what you want. They should more or less run OK, although I've heard the SD mechanism isn't as smooth or reliable as Bachmann's GP units. I've run current production Bachmann GP units on friends' layouts. They seem to be hit and miss. Different examples of the same model run well enough out of the box at one place, and very rough at another.
If all you want is a basic model they should be fine. If you want quality detail or paint, there are better options. You didn't mention roadnames, so I can't say if another manufacturer would have the paint scheme you want, if that's a factor.
Scale Trains "Operator" SD40-2 has simplified details, but a very high quality mechanism that runs smoothly (I have one of their "Rivet Counter" SD40-2s that is a superb runner). The version with DCC and sound retails for $134.99, which is far less than the list of $229 for the Bachmann "Sound Value" loco (street price can be lower for both, although a quick check of current pricing suggests Bcahmann's will still typically cost more). Scale Trains' version also has better tooling and excellent paint, so it's something you'd want to hold onto for the long run https://www.scaletrains.com/product-category/operator-ho-scale-emd-sd40-2/ . In fact, the highly detailed "Rivet Counter" version lists for only $20 or so more than the Bachmann, if at all https://www.scaletrains.com/product-category/rivet-counter-ho-scale-emd-sd40-2/ .
Here's a comparison of UP models.
Above is the Scale Trains Rivet Counter UP SD40-2, listed on their site as $224.99.
And this is the Bachmann model listing for $229 on their site https://shop.bachmanntrains.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=258_288_302&products_id=6502&zenid=4ajdc05tfdosvu36bf5e187ao3 . In my opinion, there's just no comparison in terms of value for the money, especially considering running qualities (all the detail doesn't amount to much if the thing doesn't work).
If you want a basic GP38-2, I'd recommend the Atlas Trainman model, which again has simplified details but an excellent mechanism. Athearn's RTR or Genesis GP38-2s are also good options, again depending on what level of detail you want.
Anyway, just my opinion.
Rob Spangler
I have a number of Bachmann SD40-2 with sound engines. While they don't comapre in detail quality to Scaletrains.com, the Bachmann engines are worth the value to me. Also, the MSRP is not something to go by. While Scaletrains.com sets the MSRP and sells to dealers with MAP (minimum advertised price) pricing, Bachmann engines are discounted. I just bought the Bachmann KCS SD40-2 engine with sound for under $120.
So decide whether you want more detail and great sound. or less detail, very good sound for half the price. For $249 I can buy 2 Bachmann.
The choice is yours...
Neal
Rob,I cant seem to find a mail order house that sells scale trains, I did look into the bachmann price for these engines and they sell for less than $100.00 for one and the other for around $130.00. The scale trains I can find online are a lot more than that,$40.00 or more. Im not sure its worth the price difference. I have seen a not so good review online of the scale train operators engines. Since I dont have one I cant say. I know bachmann has a bad rep. for detail and quality. The ones I have have good runners and here lately have put more detail,air hoses, windsield wipers good sound, operating ditch lights etc. The spectrum steam engines are good in my opinion. Some of these engines I have had for over 12 years and they run like new. Mth is an option but how long will I get parts and or service from them since they are going out of bussiness. I do have atlas,broadway limited and proto 2000 engines but now they are beyond my reach, price wise. I might have to settle for the mainline from walthers and add the detail kit.Thanks for info,