I think LC was originally meant to target bringing in more hobbyists, first time and one time buyers. From the latest catalogs it appears LC sets are replacing conventional sets as there were very few conventional sets listed and a lot of LC sets. LC is remote control only and LC+ is remote or conventional control. Each has a specific remote, no one remote to operate all sets. Good for families with multiple kids, each can have their own remote providing they have different types of sets/engines.
Both LC & LC+ seem to be sparking interest by the more devoted hobbyists as well, possibly due to the competitive pricing. I think there will be many devoted hobbyists that will have no interest. I am currently in the 'it might be fun to have one, but I don't really want one' camp.
If there is an upgrade path without purchasing a new system, I don't know what it is? The only upgrading I see with the LC and LC+ is buying more sets or engines. As far as I know there are no LC+ sets, only engines. LC+ may be somewhat competitive price wise with some RailKing engines for some people? However, there is an upgrade path to full DCS with RailKing engines.
The LC and LC+ are nice sets and engines with some nice features, but I think it's like a separate line for a specific market share and not meant to be incorporated into Legacy. Just run as is, although LC and LC+ will work on a DCS or Legacy layout with 18 VAC powering the tracks. Just have to use the LC or LC + remote that they came with to operate them.
Of course this is all purely my own thoughts and speculation, I really have no idea what Lionel is up to? That is other than trying to promote the hobby and sell more trains, I think we can be pretty sure of that one.
