I have a couple of BLI steamers from the original Paragon series with Quantum sound. The engines have performed well for me and I have had no problems.
I would like to obtain a couple more of the BLI steamers, in particular Mikado engines.
I just found out a hobby shop in the area has a couple of Mikado's from the Paragon series. These engines are the same price as the new Blueline series. Which engine would be recommended by those familar with the BLI steam engines?
Don--
I'll be honest, as a strictly DC modeler, the BLI/PCM/Blueline thing has me totally confused. I have some earlier BLI steamers with Quantum Sound--including the USRA Mikado--and though I like them, I don't run them any more since they take so much voltage to get going--7 to 9 volts, I cannot run them with my other pure DC power. I do know that the sound quality of the BLI's I have is really superb, and VERY controllable on my DC power. But it's just not worth it to me to try and run the BLI's (which are not for the railroads I model to begin with) with my largely brass DC steamers (which are FOR the railroads I model).
However, from what I've observed on this Forum, and heard from fellow modelers, the older BLI Paragon series seems to be by far, the most trouble-free. I certainly know that the sound is superior to the recent Blue-Line locos I've experienced being run at my LHS.
So, I'd go with the Paragon, just from that information. I know that my USRA Paragon heavy 2-8-2 is a fine puller and a smooth runner, and the sound is excellent, at least IMO. Now if I could only get the little devil to turn a wheel at 1-1/2 volts DC, I'd be pretty happy with it, LOL!
Tom
Tom View my layout photos! http://s299.photobucket.com/albums/mm310/TWhite-014/Rio%20Grande%20Yuba%20River%20Sub One can NEVER have too many Articulateds!
Thanks for the opinions. As I am in the process of switching over to a DCC operation I have opted for the Paragon with DCC and Quantam sound units.
I have been running a BLI Paragon 2-8-2 for about 4 years now, and it is a great runner with excellent sound. I have not had one problem with it... including the sync. Good luck & have fun...
Bob/IronGoat