The Bachmann Niagara is from their "Econo" line (not really, I'm must poking fun...). Bachmann's premium line is "Spectrum", and they are generally (not always) better detailed and better engineered than the poorer Bachmann series of engines. I haven't heard/read of any bad feelings over this particular engine, so maybe it is a good one...?
The BlueLine is identical to the earlier Paragon version, minus a DCC motive decoder. It has a sound decoder, but the drive is wired for DC service.
Bachmann used to have a lifetime warranty...haven't heard of any change. BLI warrants their engines for a full year, although I seem to recall being able to get an additional year with some purchases.
I only ever tried one Bachmann steamer, their Spectrum J Class 4-8-4. It was a bust....would only stagger and hesistate at scale speeds less than 25 mph. My BLI replacement is a gem, and so are the 6 other BLI steamers I have.
I hope you get some feedback for the Bachmann version. It is priced well below the BlueLine engine.
-Crandell
I've heard terrible things about the Bachmann Niagara. I wouldn't waste your money. Its a shame too, its a decent looking model.
As a side note this may sound weird but I actually like the Bachmann 'reddish' headlight on that model better than the Blue Line head light.
I think there was a spectrum version floating around once upon a time, I could be wrong about that though.
CB&Q,
As Crandell stated, the Blueline is going to be more expensive than the Bachmann. However, it should also have better detailing than the Bachmann. I was able to pick my Blueline Niagara up for a substantial discount (40% off) of the regular $300 MSRP.
Does the Bachmann even come with sound? If it doesn't and you want it to, then you'll need to add another $100 to the price of the Bachmann. I know you are already aware that the Blueline has sound. All you need to do to operate it on DCC is to add the motion decoder.
Also, Blueline warranties are 1-year. If you register online, BLI doubles it automatically for 2 years. If it were me, CB&Q, I'd spend the extra money and get the Blueline version.
Tom
https://tstage9.wixsite.com/nyc-modeling
Time...It marches on...without ever turning around to see if anyone is even keeping in step.
Outside of the obvious difference in price, the differences are profound in my opinion. I have the Blueline, the Bachmann Spectrum, and the really old Bachmann. Forget the older Bachmann's. They are junk. Mine is in the closet in case I decide to use it for parts on other projects. That dog don't run. Period.
The Spectrum is ok. It's not a great hauler and the detail is meh. I love the Blueline though. I bought it for $150.00 refurbished from BLI and have had no issues with it.
My Bachmann 4-8-4 runs OK at 21 scale MPH dragging 12 coal cars and 5 gondolas on a 22 " oval
I used the plug so I am strictly DC
51% share holder in the ME&O ( Wife owns the other 49% )
ME&O
I had a Bachmann, note I said had. Engine it self was fine, my problem was the tender would not track. I added weight, removed the center wheel sets and used ever trick I was given and it would not stay on the rails. I took it back to my LHS and used it for trade for my first BLI steam engine.
I had two Bachmann GS-4 and they where great cheap engines. (they where not Spectrum's) Then I went DCC and I sold them on E-Bay.
Dollar for dollar they have have been the best steam engines I have had. Don't sell Bachmann short. For the money they are a blast.
Cuda Ken
I hate Rust