I am more optimistic than some.
I think the original poster's concerns certainly have merit. The future of MTH is uncertain. However, we are in a better position than we were last year and the new model of doing dealer-specific runs appears to be doing quite well, at least according to a couple of the MTH dealers with whom I've spoken. And it has the benefit of closely matching supply and demand generally, and allowing them to make regionally attractive offerings. And I think now that Atlas has picked up DCS and some reliable factories, certain MTH product will live on under a different and reputable name.
I am also optimistic about Lionel. Much has been written in terms of complaints, and again I think those concerns likely have merit. But, they are committing to new tooling at the top end of the hobby and producing technological innovations, such as direct bluetooth control of legacy locomotives, that eliminates much of the DCS v. Legacy/TMCC operating system conflict that has been an issue for the last 20 years. Yes, I know you lose some legacy functions but my opinion is that this is a "feature delete" of sorts designed to appease the die-hards. At some point, Legacy handhelds will not be produced due to the internal hardware constraints and we will transition to tablets as the control interface. Lionel knows this and is pursuing a strategy that straddles both groups during the interim period. And they are producing other products that simplify accessory and building wiring. This is forward thinking and commendable.
And then you have Menards. We have a huge supply of wonderful buildings and other accessories that are animated and realistic at the same time. And now they appear to be moving into motive power.
So not to sound overly optimistic, but this is still a strong period for the hobby as compared to the 1970s when I was a young kid and we were largely confined to MPC products, many of which ran like crap (and some of which I will admit were very good).
Final note is in on pricing: we all read news and have read about inflation. Aside from that development, we have gotten spoiled by pricing in the O gauge hobby. When I was a youngster, my dad bought me an MPC Hudson that was probably the better part of $1k in the mid to late 80s. Today, $1k plus a small margin buys an MTH premier or Lionel Legacy steamer that from a detail, operational, and any other perspective is in a different league. Yes prices are climbing but this is due to a combination of factors that is outside of anyone's control, including the makers, and we will have to adjust as hobbyists. Nevertheless, MTH's pricing is still very attractive and provides an advantage in the market within a certain segment vis a vis Lionel.
Have a great day everyone.
