I hear you about the Conrail OCS! Even at the preorder price of $899, one can find a Weaver or K-Line E8's, upgrade to err electronics, add LEDs, brass details, correct paint and decals and still be ahead of the mfgs price!
Btw, the 4 car set also comes with an E8 too . IMHO many will order the set and additional cars with the electronics. Just like the AFT set.