Differences in Lionel Thomas sets - Conventional and Remote?

I have the transformer controlled, so I can run it on any of my tracks. If I used the remote controlled I would have to dedicate one track for it. So Thomas can run with the big boys

 I have one of the basic sets for my 3 grandkids, it came with loco, two coaches, and some track it has the 80 watt transformer with a whistle only for sound. I bought some extra fastrack and turnouts and added a few O-27 cars so they can do some switching. It's been a very reliable little loco and has made it thru much play time.My oldest is 12 yrs and I think I bought the set when she was 2, the youngest is 6 so Thomas needs to survive for about 6 more years :> ....DaveB

That would seem to be dependent on the default configuration of your layout and whether you wish to modify the setup to run Thomas.

If one runs TMCC/Legacy/DCS, my understanding is that the Lionchief remote sets can coexist on those tracks since they all run on ~ 18VAC and the signals from each system do not interfere with one another. You can run with your existing power sources and just not use the power pack that comes with the set.

If one had the set without the remote, you need a way to change the voltage (depending on whether you use bricks or a ZW-C or ZW-L, of course if you remove whatever previous power supply you had for a loop, the CW-80 included with the set fits this need).  With straight bricks(18 VAC constant), Thomas would fly around the layout at warp speed with no control over how fast he goes. 

So it is very dependent on your setup and it's flexibility.

I don't have one of the Lionchief models, but I think I recall there may be some background sounds included with those.  The traditional transformer controlled units I have are just whistle (and maybe bell?), I'm pretty sure.

-Dave

The LionChief has more sounds and is the current production model, so I'd go with that one.  Thomas will operate down to around 10-12 volts, so you can use it on a conventional layout as well,  using the remote that comes with the set.  It is much more compatible with command equipped layouts (TMCC, Legacy, DCS) than the conventional model.  If you have a conventional layout, you can control the conventional loco on a big loop with the transformer, and Thomas with the remote simultaneously.  Really no downside to the LionChief version in my view.

I've got the remote locomotives, one of each to be given for birthdays and Christmases over the next couple years for my now 2 year old.  He's got Percy and Diesel right now and love to run Percy.  They have background sounds and very nice low speed control, as long as the voltage isn't at max on my ZW-C.  I normally have the voltage at 6-8 volts as he likes to run them at full throttle and that limits the top end speed.  It can be run with conventional and command locomotives, I do both.  The only ting that frustrates him is that it doesn't respond to the throttle wheel instantaneously, just like all LC locomotives.

All of the above comments are correct.

I will note though that if you are running the LionChief Thomas or friends engines on a layout with other trains running TMCC.DCS etc. it will run just fine or conventional layout down to 6-8 volts.

Also they might not make it through some of the longer turnouts without stalling out.

You should be aware though that if you do not watch the kids they can try to turn the speed control knob on the hand held remote around to make the train go faster. I have had several break this way. They strip inside and you have to get them replaced. Or take them apart and replace the speed control thing.

The LC sets have Whistle, Bell and "All Aboard"

Transformer control sets only have the air whistle.