Especially after building a few of my own diesels now, I think the MTH model has captured the spirit of the model. It could be much better, I agree. I just find myself looking for the major details covered. If I wanted a very accurate model, I'd order those brass high end models which are pretty much perfect to my eyes. I admire anyone who can afford them, and chose to buy them. I find most inaccuracies when I study real pictures while building my own. I have to make concessions with the materials and money that I have.
I could buy one high end model, and that would be my buy for the decade. I prefer to capture the look of large trains with multiple consist diesels working the train around the layout. I enjoy sound and smoke. If I did buy the high end, I'd still upgrade them to full command with sound and smoke.
I don't stare at any model that closely once it's working on my RR. Occasionally, I'll take a better looking diesel and put it next to me on my desk. It reminds me that I like them, I have plenty, and I'm happy so far. I want to focus on scenery now. I feel Rich's MTH model, is close enough even though it's not perfect.
I think I would cut the shell area around the steps to make the pilot look stock. I have skipped many such hacks myself and left them alone.
