I guess MR must have had a "hanging or pregnant chad" problem, as my issue of MR showed the 2-8-0 winning the category.
The 2-8-0 was 2nd overall, 1st in N-Scale. That means, for the first time in years, that an N-Scale item made it into the top two! What grabbed me was the letter from the guy complaining about the spread for Garden Scale in the previous issue. Guess he was so used to getting his HO fix that he couldn't handle the G scale. Wonder how he feels about N-Scale?
Funny, it was third in my issue. 1. Rivarossi Allegheny 2. Bachmann HO "Russian" Decapod 3. Bachmann N 2-8-0 Dwight
In regards to conflicting information on the latest issue...wasn't there a teaser on the cover..stating "Nscale Review"?...was MR referring to their review of the Atlas 8-40B? I was under the impression, that it meant more then just a loco review. Although there was a advertising supplement...highlighting various N-Scale manufacturers. Anyway...got my issue on Saturday...they seem to be getting more consistant, with mailing them out.
They probably meant a review of N-Scale as a viable medium. Anyway, whether the 2-8-0 was second or third (I don't have my copy in front of me at this time), it's still pretty significant for them to admit that an N-Scale product can make the top 2 or 3.
OK, I checked back with the MR and here is the official scoop. Product of the Year 1. Rivarossi HO 2-6-6-6 Allegheny 2. Bachmann HO Spectrum 2-10-0 "Russian" Decapod 3. Bachmann N Spectrum 2-8-0 4. Athearn HO Genesis F7 5. Trix HO 4-8-8-4 Big Boy N Scale Locomotive of the Year 1. Bachmann Spectrum 2-8-0 2. Kato EMD SD90MAC 3. Kato Budd Rail Diesel Car I suspect the "N Scale Review" was referring to the combination of the B40-8, the GS-4 and the Superliner reviews, all three of which are wonderful examples of what a great time it is to be in N-Scale!!!!
I think the Spectrum Consolidation should have placed first in both categories. I would like to share my perspective as to why: 1. The Spectrum Consolidation hit me like a bolt of lightning the first time I saw it. I was so impressed by the detail that I was ready to compromise its performance. The performance of this locomotive was superior to its looks. There is no other loco made before or now that matches its appearance or performance, even the ConCor Kato J3a Hudson. 2. It took me from a contrite N scaler to an energized, motivated, enthusiastic dedicated modeler since I first saw it last December. 3. Since then, I have purchased 6 of them. 4. I did some honest "comparo"s with the Kato Mikado and the Mikado came in 2nd to the Consolidation in virtually every category. 5. On my double mainline, I have run at least one of these constantly on my layout since I got my first one. 6. It took the negative blistering wind out of a lot of N scalers throughout the U.S. Now I even take a closer look at the Spectrum line and will blindly purchase Spectrum's next steamer. Now I can't wait until Spectrum issues its next steamer!!!! Ken "Steamguy" Willaman
