planning on a simple layout maybe something like 50in by 36 in some questions on the engines do any have lights ? smoke unit ? sounds ?
Welcome to Z scale Lights Yes Smoke No Sound from the factory No but it is possible to add sound yourself (Note it's very difficult to do even for the experienced modeler) For Roadbed track i recommend Rokuhan sectional track as they have the largest selection For Non-Roadbed Flex track i recommend Atlas and I prefer AZL Locomotives (American Z lines)
Micro trains and AZL make great locomotives. If going MT get Gp 9 or 35 or the SD 40-2. The f-7s can be very good if you get a good one but they can be finicky. AZL pretty much everything runs well although for cost it’s hard to beat the latest Gp 38s. At 100 dollars it’s a great start. Marklin makes pretty good equipment as well. Mostly European but they have a mikado and pacific. Track depends if you want roadbed or not. Micro trains and Rokuhan both make solid track. You’ll have more selection with rokuhan. Atlas makes flex and so does MT American spacing. Atlas makes turnouts too. Marklin makes very robust track as well. A little pricy. Hope this helps.
Welcome, I am relatively new to Z myself. I like this site and there are helpful people here, even if they are not into Z. Scott
Welcome aboard and nice to see another person embracing Z-scale. The more we have interested in Z, the more the vendors will take notice and will continue with the introduction of more interesting and exciting products. So basically, we need you and others to keep jumping on the Crazy Train of Z-scale ---- In regards to locos, I have all MTL at the moment, but am awaiting the AZL's new F7's to arrive and am also eyeing (and budgeting for) one of their steam offerings. The feedback on this forum seems to point to AZL diesel locos being better performers with less rework required, but indeed they are a bit more expensive. I will own a few here right soon. Best I can say is peruse this forum and most of your questions will begin to be answered.