I've got an Athearn Challenger and think its great. The detailing and performance are way better than the late model Rivarossi Challengers I have. The detailing is right up there with my Trix Big Boy. Plus it has DCC and sound already installed! All this for about the same price as a Riv on...
Thought I would post my new website here. (Some of it is still under construction)
It has new photos of the layout and a "history" of the DV&W RR.
http://trainweb.org/drwrr/
I am considering replacing my Athearn UP F7's with P2K E6A/B units and am wondering if they will operate on 22" radius. I have not been able to find this spec info. On my new layout, most of my curves will be greater than 22", but there will be some, including the reversing loop that will be...
So far I have not had a significant dust problem. I do use my shop vac on the layout regularly and a gentle duster for the lines and soft paint brushes for the buildings.
My power lines are made of gray embroidery thread with a touch of CA at each insulator. I usually go 3 poles at a time to get the tension I want, glue it and then cut off the ends.
I start from the bottom closest the pole and work out and up. And yes, I have bumped them plenty of times and...
I got back into the hobby a couple years ago after being out if it for about 40 years. (When I was a kid).
I got a MRC Command 2000 and though it has few features, it works great for me at present. However, I am planning to upgrade to sound and will likely switch to a Digitrax system.