Timothy,
Used to be that LGB was the last word on starter sets. LGB is now gone, but is returning under new names. However, I would suggest you look for the LGB Toy Train starter sets. These are rugged little trains that are designed for abuse, come with a full circle of track and a decent power supply. The other LGB starter sets get a little more pricey, but you will get a larger steam locomotive.
The other option for starter sets where you can use most of the equipment outside would be the Aristo starter sets. The nice thing about the Aristo versions is they use a real model for the locomotive (Its a PRR A-5 switch engine, slope tender is available separately). They also have a 'basic' train engineer which is a remotely controlled throttle. Fast-slow-direction and stop. Also, the aristo track comes ready to be screwed together. The LGB track joiners are a simple slip-type. Some folks have had to add clamps to get the track power to work.
There are some other starter sets, but I have found that the more rugged LGB and Aristo sets are better for small hands. I made the mistake of getting my nephew a Bachmann Tweetsie set. The engine and cars are more than he can handle, so it is a difficult toy for him to enjoy. My other nephews got LGB sets, which see use at Christmas only, but I haven't heard of any difficulties with those sets.
Also, in looking for pictures, the prices of the regular LGB sets are within 85 bucks of the sound equipped versions. If you do go the LGB route, the extra cash is worth it for those sound units. Nicely timed chuff-chuff, nice little bell and whistle is great!! I had a Southern version when they came out way back when.
In looking at more high end starter sets, the USA starter sets are nice, too, but USA trains tend to be a bit more fragile in the detail department. However, their locomotives are great, too.
So, to answer your question, yes, the starter sets are worth it.
Mark
Used to be that LGB was the last word on starter sets. LGB is now gone, but is returning under new names. However, I would suggest you look for the LGB Toy Train starter sets. These are rugged little trains that are designed for abuse, come with a full circle of track and a decent power supply. The other LGB starter sets get a little more pricey, but you will get a larger steam locomotive.
The other option for starter sets where you can use most of the equipment outside would be the Aristo starter sets. The nice thing about the Aristo versions is they use a real model for the locomotive (Its a PRR A-5 switch engine, slope tender is available separately). They also have a 'basic' train engineer which is a remotely controlled throttle. Fast-slow-direction and stop. Also, the aristo track comes ready to be screwed together. The LGB track joiners are a simple slip-type. Some folks have had to add clamps to get the track power to work.
There are some other starter sets, but I have found that the more rugged LGB and Aristo sets are better for small hands. I made the mistake of getting my nephew a Bachmann Tweetsie set. The engine and cars are more than he can handle, so it is a difficult toy for him to enjoy. My other nephews got LGB sets, which see use at Christmas only, but I haven't heard of any difficulties with those sets.
Also, in looking for pictures, the prices of the regular LGB sets are within 85 bucks of the sound equipped versions. If you do go the LGB route, the extra cash is worth it for those sound units. Nicely timed chuff-chuff, nice little bell and whistle is great!! I had a Southern version when they came out way back when.
In looking at more high end starter sets, the USA starter sets are nice, too, but USA trains tend to be a bit more fragile in the detail department. However, their locomotives are great, too.
So, to answer your question, yes, the starter sets are worth it.
Mark
