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Marklin Train Sets, the Pioneers
Marklin marketed the first complete layout system with added components. Its rugged HO trains are ideal for young railroaders. Starter Marklin train sets include locomotive, rail cars, oval track, and transformer. Marklin offers a third-rail track system with tiny stud contacts that carry electrical current to the locomotive.

Marklin's Z-gauge model train sets ($500-$1200) feature nickel-silver rails and unique plug-and-socket wiring built into the ends of each track piece for reliable performance.

Lionel Train Sets
Lionel train sets are synonymous with O-scale model train sets. Lionel offers RailSounds 5.0 sound system with CrewTalk and TowerCom announcements and TrainMaster radio control systems, as well as Command Control or Conventional Transformer Control modes.

Lionel model train sets offer infrared wireless systems, remote doors, interior and directional lighting, and a tilt mechanism where passengers lean as the train takes the curves. One model has dual maintenance-free motors.

Bachmann Train Sets and Athearn Trains
Bachmann's N-scale Centennial train set, HO-scale Dewitt Clinton ($100), and HO Digital Commander model train sets come with the E-Z Track system, are ready to plug in, and are geared for ages eight and up.

Bachmann's On30 (narrow O) Spectrum series offers nickel-silver track. Locomotives have lifetime warranties, operating headlight, hidden drive train, state-of-the-art flywheel drive, bell, whistle, pop valves, operating piston rods, and valve gears. The Night Before Christmas Train Set is a 4-6-0 steam locomotive with operating headlight, smoke, synchronized sound, and includes oval E-Z track, power pack, and speed controller.

Bachmann's E-Z track comes standard with Athearn model train sets. Athearn's HO-scale Ironhorse and N-scale Thunder Rails feature twin power packs. The Iron Horse has three freight cars and a caboose. Thunder Rails is a 2-6-0 old-time steam locomotive.

Atlas Train Sets
Atlas O-scale Trainman model train sets come in 2-3-rail sets, with or without a transformer. Locomotive has matching caboose, horn, bell, directional lighting, and a 4x8-foot oval or six-foot circular layout. The HO Trainman has a locomotive and matching caboose, power pack, streetcar assortment, and 4x3-foot oval track.