I had a Blue Streak (1973) and the Sound of Steam was crisp and clear. This loco didn't have a whistle. Since, I've heard other locos like the Milwaukee with electronic whistle, that didn't sound as crisp. And the versions made after 1980 or so sound very hoarse and noisy to my ears. I think if more folks heard the early version they wouldn't be as critical.
@Dominic Mazoch We weren't allowed to run our trains on Sunday afternoon, because they interfered with the TV picture. So I would watch football with my Dad and grandpop. I'm an NFL fan to this day!!