Polar Express Availability?

I actually have three separate PE sets now - the original CW-80 set (6-31960), the new Lionchief remote set (6-30218), and the Whistle Steam Locomotive with Railsounds Tender (6-18754).  For some perspective, these were my first foray into Lionel Trains, as part of grand plan to do an under the tree setup for the kids, so you're getting the view of a casual (but critical) train enthusiast.  While the remote set is wonderful if you're looking to let really young kids (say a 2-3 year old) drive it, from a sound perspective, the difference between the three is not even comparable.  If money isn't a serious option, I would definitely recommend going with the 6-18754.  Not only is it a noticeably nicer locomotive, but the railsounds gives you continuous sound production (i.e. the chuffing continues even if you ring the bell or blow the whistle).  The only downside is that you'll need a separate set to have the rest of the cars to pull behind it.  I purchased my locomotive in person from Nicholas Smith Trains two years ago (cannot say enough nice things about that store).  If you cannot find it in their online site, you might consider CharlesRo or one of the other larger online retailers that support OGR.  Best of luck with your purchase!

I think it's a closer decision between the LionChief and the 6-18754.

The die cast tender and Railsounds are nice as well as the whistles steam effect and cab crew on the 6-18754. But it is conventional, which is the deal breaker for me.

The LionChief's slow speed control and the better performing smoke unit (because of the constant voltage), the included conductor announcements and remote control make it the choice for me. The sound is great(Railsounds also), but needs more volume. (mod this summer). It is a great puller as I have my cars weighted to around 15oz.( slightly under NMRA stds.) and it pulls them without a complaint. So, I live with chuff interruption.

definitely pass on the trainsounds tender at full price.

There's a 6-18754 on the bay now. It is a really nice engine\tender.