I’m happy that they start including track mats in their beginner sets again, I remember I got a Thomas set from 2018 and it didn’t have one. They are not necessities but for beginners it makes playing with trains a lot more fun
I started with a very similar starter set. It had the new controller that most people don't like, 4 wagons and the same amount of track. The entire set cost me £50 thanks to Christmas sales! What a great deal that was.
Perhaps with a slightly different rating system, comparing the value of the items inside vs buying them seperately, the bigger the difference the higher the score?
Yeah totally - if I did more train sets I'd definitely do that... it's just that I look at only one or two a year, so there's no point really :( Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I do love these train set videos. Whether it's you reviewing an actual toy train set for OO/HO or you're reviewing a proper starter set like this one. I always find these videos so enjoyable to watch for some reason and I look forward to possible future reviews of train sets!
Love your videos. A Yank here who has modeled trains sets and layouts since 1970. O, HO, Z and mostly N the last 8 years. As of late been picking up OO. Felt ripped off so many times by Hornby, Heljan, Bachman, Dapol with very few exceptions. Your in depth reviews have helped greatly. You are spot on with this set. Picked up three of these at 100 pounds/$128 US. Picked up another recently at a slight increase. 113 pound/$144 US. Fantastic deal for a 4x8 or 8x4 layout depending on your view. This is specifically for my seven grankids and I. Love this set up for analog. Tested great on the track mat. Since its for the kids we are going to keep it fun and simple since its a out of school summer vacation project. Keep up the fantastic fun and informative work you offer all of us model train enthusiasts!
I'm actually considering getting this set for the loco and the controller. I'm after the HM6000 for my 0 gauge garden railway, and the Bagnall is the only type of pocket rocket I don't yet have (also don't have one of the new lower-speed pocket rockets either). However, that then leaves me with a load of track, some wagons, and a big box that I have no use for. The DCC ready marking on the box vs no DCC socket is false advertising. The Hornby website doesn't specify if the sets are DCC ready or not (I looked into a few of them), and other retailers also don't mention it on their descriptions. Good to see the tanker comes with the ladders, which it seems older trainsets didn't. One addition Hornby could make to the HM6000 range would be a small range of battery powered bluetooth handsets to act as a physical version of the app. I'd prefer a small box with a knob on it to control my single track garden railway than having to use a smart device.
Sounds great! With a 4amp power supply, this could totally power O gauge locos very easily! Yes it's definitely not supposed to be there - the set has no DCC features whatsoever! Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I personally wouldn't like the touch screen control, but I can also see the discretion you can have with your train set. Instead of having a controller sitting out, you can conceal it and when you show your friends you can surprise them as your trains come to life seemingly on their own. It also seems to make it easier to control at a distance which seems quite nice.
Being an American who collected train sets in the 90's and watching SMT Mainline in addition to this Channel, I'm noticing the array of couplers in HO and OO scales. Over here (US and Canada) there seems to be a strong preference for knuckle couplers (with the exception of primarily "Thomas and Friends" modelers (Like Trainboy and the Unlucky Tug), who seem to err towards the UK Style) while over there (over there! Spread the word! Spread the word over the- where was I? Oh right!) There seems a preference for Loop Couplers...and the European Mainland has yet another system that I'm still confused as to how it works... Have you considered a video discussing the various types of couplers? Perhaps exploring the pros and cons of each of an experiment video perhaps? Maybe even research or speculation as to why these preferences exist?
Curiosity got the better of me especially the HM6000 controller. Just bought it from Amazon for £103.46 which isn't bad value. In 2022 it still says DCC ready on box but not worried about that and the loco and trucks easily come apart for some more realistic airbrush treatment. The set contains track pack A which is good as well. Track packs B C & D arrived today from Amazon to complete the trackmat saving £40.55. Got a nice reasonably priced little portable layout for patio etc as main layout (15/12ft) is in the loft and not moving. Thanks for the video Sam.
There was an Aussie TV cop drama back in the 70s called 'Matlock' Police. Two of the leading actors were Tom Richards & Paul Cronin. I wonder if there is a connection ?
Have had this set since May, after returning to the hobby after 40 years break. I am having a lot of fun with it. I especially enjoy the control system. Shunting with the Brake & Acceleration features enabled is my favourite. I have purchased a little bit of extra track & got my Collectors Club loco, I can have 1 train running round the circuit while the other shunts the sidings both under finger tip control !! - also ‘sounds’ through my speakers !! Next step for me is electric control of my sidings points via the app and an accessory controller. Which will be even more fun !!
When they works seriously, they can do really good products at Hornby. Like this one. Honestly, their HM 6000 system is one of the best products tought out, made and sold today : cheap overall, 80% of DCC functionalities for less than 20% of the price, and nothing to do on your locomotives. With collector's item, that's a bonus. This system can be enough for a small terminus-type layout, for instance. By the way, you have two track circuits controlable by controller, how many controllers can you run with one app ? I would be interested to know that, not everybody runs a dozen engines at the same time (I tried, it's... complicated !).
It has none of the features of a DCC controller. It's just an old fashioned analogue controller but controlled on a touchscreen. You can buy a fully functioning DCC controller for £54.96. (SPROG II).
Good for beginners and good for re-beginners. I've got quite a lot of 60s to early 80s OO stuff tucked away in a cupboard (I'd have to move a lot of other stuff out of the way to get to it), so I bought one of these sets as a cheat.
I remember finding an excellent deal on an A4 Mallard from Bachmann at a show, the seller didn’t know if it was DCC ready or not…so I checked Bachmann’s website and it confirmed it was DCC ready…so I purchased it…then I found out it was an error, it wasn’t just not DCC ready, it was a split chassis and a bugger to convert!
I personally think that these new HM 6000 train sets that are coming out are great fun for the family, as much as the beginner modellers, because I feel that they could do these, if people aren’t ready for the DC or DCC controlled layouts as of yet, and it’s definitely worth getting to start with and maybe much better than the Hornby Junior tracks, and could be great help for layouts in the future, when serious modellers will do it, especially to hide the controllers under tables or baseboards, whatever, I think it will be brilliant for everyone in the future to use on phones or tablets for the future.
Hi Sam, so glad you had fun with the train set. Could you do a video or part of a video about the best way or ways to uncouple Hornby stock? That would be helpful for us all to get more fun out of shunting. Is there a good uncoupling device out there other than track mounted uncouplers? Many thanks. Very best wishes, Adrian
I see this question was two years ago but when I had a Hornby as a kid in the 70's they did a sprung 'ramp' that sat between the tracks. You'd put it just past the points on the siding and pushing a wagon over it and stopping would uncouple the thing as they weren't under tension. The wagon would roll off to the buffer stop. When under tension the ramp didn't interfere with the couplings, would just depress. I also had a Triang/Hornby spade-like tool in black vinyl that you'd slip under the couplings to lift them.
Thanks for the HM 6000 i traveller train set review. I sold all my DCC layout etc a couple of years ago and was experiencing withdrawal symptoms. I purchased this set to combat that and it's really good, I only want a small set up will add a few locos etc later. Amazon were doing them for £87:34 a real bargain.Thanks for bringing this set to my attention.
I kind of agree, I love traditional controls but I am a fan of universal use so it can work with a DC, DCC, Laptop or Cellphone. What matters most is anyone can use it.
Sam you are a very generous man on some of your videos. The only thing I see worth it in this set is the controller. I have purchased a lot of Hornby train sets and I think this one is over priced. The engine is the same as the Coke Cola engine in that Christmas train set . Only the livery is different. Thanks for video.
as someone who is younger and wanting to get into the hobby, I'd love to see a controller like this that is DCC. While I am not currently able to have my own layout, It is something that would sell me on a controller like this instantly. Or maybe having one that is DC and one that is DCC for older models and newer models. Both being controlled by the app, and both running at the same time. I also would love to see some more stuff like this introduced in the states. While the hobby isn't as big in the states, there are a lot of engines I'd love to get my hands on without having to call my bank and let them know I'm purchasing something from Great Britain. That and knowing I'm gonna have trains in two different sizes.
Hey Sam @9:07 Yep your right - I've started to notice that aswell - the last 2 or 3 Train Sets I bought came with a Railer!!! Also @ 16:27 - you shoud of rang Hornby & ask them & see what they would of said!!! 😉🚂🚂🚂
That's a pretty decent beginners train set with decent loco, wagons and a decent mount of track and I do like how you can control the trains with a smart device
I have a really silly question 🤪 (sorry in advance) On your score page, in the background, you have two circuits of trains going around. A steam loco with 3 carriages and a endless rake of wagons in the top right and i always wonder: Whats pulling the wagons?! How are they going round and round endlessly hahaaaa. I know this has nothing to do with this (very well done) review, but it always intrigues me whenever i see the score page and today was the day i decided to ask 😆.
I personally don't like the idea of using your phone to control your trains, there's no sense of feedback when you slide the dials etc Will be sticking with my "old fashioned" controllers if that is such a thing to say ;D
I'm late to this review but all the names on the wagons are members of an alternative metal band called Starset. I'm not familiar with them although I am a metal fan! Clearly someone at Hornby HQ is into their rock and metal as they've done some King Crimson themed rolling stock before and I think I spotted some Rush stuff once too? Keep on rocking Sam! 😎🤘
I must say the HM6000 looks like a compelling option for those stuck inbetween wanting to not spend a lot of money with analog, but also wanting the functionality of full fat DCC
I'd love to see a short video showing the controller with another loco, maybe a railroad loco to get an idea of what performance you could expect when you start to expand!
@@SamsTrains hey Sam I just wanted to ask you if the train from each train set you review would fit on your own ho scale layout because I would like to see you do a running sessions video of just trains that are included in train sets thanks again for the video
Quite an interesting set I'll probably pick one up once I go to England again. At first I was a bit skeptical about the controller because to me playing with trains means that I put my phone away, but you convinced me that it's worth it. The simulated acceleration and and braking was a huge surprise for me. Absolutely love the livery of the loco and the wagons. An excellent quality set. Great review, Sam 👍
Bit of dry brushing with poster paint ( because you can wash it off) and honestly, everything would look great. The cab of the loco, well print or draw an interior and as you say add figures - light wash of grime on the windows and it will look the part.
I recognize the blue diesel as the same design that Hornby used in their CocaCola set, one of which I've had for quite a few months now. In fact, I'm pretty sure Hornby used this same Bagnall design when they made their model of the Thomas character 'Dart'.
Got this so I could run 2 trains from one unit at a really cheap price. The only sting was that my model of phone won't connect but its great on the ipad and kids love the noises!
Whenever you review a train set I always start crying honestly. I bought a lifelike train set and was gifted another one in a Santa Fe box. I bought some lifelike kits, Bachmann plasticville kits, second hand rolling stock and the Hornby turntable. I was too young to work out the mechanics of model trains and I’m still highly inexperienced. It’d be great if you could do a tutorial of how to properly wire up the Hornby turntable in the future. Unfortunately I think my Hornby turntable will never turn around. I still have a bunch of unassembled kits lying around still on their sprue. I do not recommend lifelike controllers. You have to solder the wires to pick ups on terminal rails. Hopefully one day I can afford hobby electricians to help fix my model train technology
Triang sets of sixty years ago included working simple uncoupling ramps for hands free remote uncoupling that enabled shunting to be performed. No wiring needed. The uncoupling functions of the mark 3 tension lock couplings was a selling feature adding realistic play value and so was featured in catalogues and instruction manuals for many years. Yet recent UK model train logic is not to supply them or uniform standard couplings that work with ramps. So with no uncoupling system how do you shunt with a shuting layout? Widespread advice from my fellow club members at our exhibitions and open days is to start with equipment that uses remotely operating couplers like the Kadee knuckle design. As used by nearly all layouts on display. The remote uncoupling is one of the things that impress new entrants that they are not dealing with toy train sets. The UK approach locking people into the toy train set approach of giving lots of junk to be discarded.
You didn't do as well in Hattons as you thought! I paid £89.99 including P&P from eBay. Ha Ha. I have been too busy in the garden to get my new iTraveller train set out, so I was interested in your review. I think it will be good for making videos since you will be able to operate the camera without having to grovel around o the floor reaching for the controller. I like the engine and the rolling stock too. By the way, the official term for the "egg-box" used by Hornby is the "pulp tray". I got the HM6010 (which has the DCC input) for £27.95 including P&P. "DCC compatible" only means you can use a DCC signal as a power source with the HM6010. I don't recommend you do this. Thanks for uploading.
I can't have this train set because I don't have a smartphone. You've gotten confident with it all of a sudden, I see. Trivia time: you used the same extension lead socket as was used for your Inglenook Challenge. At the end of both sessions, there was a fake explosion. Perhaps I was the inspiration behind it. Let me know.
What are the higher quality engines like with this controller? I'm curious as to whether it can get them to crawl like traditional controllers can. Also the price of the controller on Hornby's site has been bumped up to £32!
I have over 150 locos of varying ages and some modem ones over 200 pounds. All locos work great with it. I think Sam got it wrong the normal price has always been about 30 bit discounts can be had.
Perhaps you can use the controller on your large layout or other locomotives. DCC ready... well, in using your controller, it is Digitally Direct Controlled. Overall, yes... a very nice beginners price for what you get. An honest review, I think. Put the bus on the siding... on the second circuit track. John Canada
I always think theese set's are a great way to get folks into the hobby sure it can be cheaper to go on eBay but not everyone has the time ir effort to do all that, Also good show to Hornby using cardboard instead of polystyrene bit tidyer and better on the environment
a very good up to date set. for the modern boy /girl getting into model trains for the first time. not for me but i won't knock it and at a very good price too. thanks sam. cheers tom.
Hey sam, check out the modelex analog controller, its very similar to the gaugemaster combi but styled a little differently. I ordered one a while ago and have been using it lots with no issues or complaints. the only thing is you need to source a power supply and soter to the plug on the controller
I like the look of the controller but both Hattons and Hornby do not have the plug transformer in stock. You would think that the transformer should be readily available to match up with the controller.
Ever since Z-wave i am suspicious about "you can control all of this just by your phone" see everything has its limits and the aforementioned smartarse home thingy had quite strange set of caveats. Personally i'd glue the steam crew somewhere on front of the locomotive, the one with "shovel" attempting to open the door suggesting they are locked out. I wonder if the wallpaper of all the locomotive products can even be ordered anymore, i would hope that at least separately it is available. In here such things were predominantly used as quick visual reference guide on sides of hobbyist shops, whilst i have not ventured into the train set section alot i did notice how neat it was, hell it could have easily been a Hornby i am reasonably certain they do sell here aswell. i did kinda miss watching train sets, at least it tends to have slight difference from standard track.
Hi Sam you should do an experiment seeing how long the i raveller runs for without disconnecting from the app/internet for 24hrs (like what you did with miles the caledonian 0-4-0)
When i first started getting back into this wonderful hobby of ours i eventually got round to buying a Gaugemaster Model D controller,when my good lady saw it she said 'that look's really old fashioned' to which i replied 'that's why i like it' :) to be honest Sam i don't like it,and i hate the livery on the little loco.You do get a fair bit for your money though,but how on Earth is a trackmat £20!?
That's right - Hornby have increased their prices now. My vids are filmed quite a way in advance, so they'll take a while to catch up to the recent price increase! Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Excellent review of the iTraveller train set Sam 👍 I really like the idea of controlling trains with an IPad or IPhone and I don’t know if you can buy the HM 6000 on it own without needing it in a train set.
Not a bad set but if that was me opening it and seeing that its not as they say DCC ready then it would have been back in the box and sent back and ask them to make it ready to accept a decoder. Not good at all really for the amount of times they say their qaulity is a lot better.
Very nice review. Interesting setup using a analogue set with modern digital like controls. I understand that the idea is odd controlling trains with your phone or tablet etc. But you get used to it quickly and it has so many advantages having a mobile device instead of a fixed controller. I've been using a app based system for my trains. Be it a digital AC system, it has a full controller with dails etc but also a touch screen. But most importantly it has app support for multiple mobile devices (uses wifi) so you can have friends over and each control their own train(s) It works pretty much the same as your Hornby app with slider for speed etc. Personally I wouldn't want to go back to only a fixed controller.
The loco and wagons may be basic, but for children after their first 'train set', the play value of this is going to be phenomenal. It may spark a love of model railways which can then be expanded and built on, unlike some of the other basic train sets which are often no way expandable. If it doesn't, nobody's really lost much in buying it. The thing that would make me doubt is the fact it is controlled by a smart device. Whilst I accept the argument for such a controller, I can't help wonder if it had been better to have been an analogue device compatible set too since even today some parents are reluctant to give younger children such devices.
Yeah absolutely - their basic nature is perfectly appropriate in a train set! But yes that's a fair point - and of course Hornby still produce a wealth of train sets with traditional controllers too, to cater for the younger people. Then again, young kids should only be using train sets under supervision... so having a parent-owned smartphone as a barrier might be a good idea! Thanks for watching, Sam :)
It's a good effort. I like their cheap diesels and the controller will be a novelty. I did have one on pre-order but I cancelled it when they cancelled my Capt Tom order.
Thanks as usual Sam. I'd like to think the DCC ready logo is just a stupid mistake by Hornby - but of course it's misleading and they need to amend that packaging.
@@pettra1 bit like Sam's reviews where he's omitting rather vital information that he is either leaving out through neglect or ignorance, needs to become a bit more comprehensive in his understanding.
Great video Sam. I am a Welded on LUDDITE and find DC just fine. But That little controller is a Great upgrade. It may not be DCC, but I like it. ( A poor mans Dcc option..) Thanks for the review. Now where do I buy a couple of those Controllers..!! Cheers kim, in Oz.😎
As at 10.30am on Thursday 2nd September 2021 on following the links prices are £130.00 at Hatton’s and £109.00 at Amazon. N.B. Prices are excluding any postage and packaging and Amazon says they only have two left in stock at this time.
I was surprised to see Swedish warning text on the box when you zoomed in on the DCC ready logo. Hornby isn't usually marketed in Sweden, we have more of a H0 Germanic tradition when it comes to model railroads.
Hi Sam, good video that showed the HM6000 which I didn't know existed. How does this controller compare with the traditional Hornby controllers when it comes to rather lengthy resetting after a short. Would the second part of the controller work if you were to say set a track on the inside of the rail so that when you put a train into the inner loop, via a set of points, off the main track and then set the points back to main line outer track, could you then run the inner track on the second track power supply? Hope that makes sense. Cheers, Rick the Bulldog
My first train set was much like this but mine came with two loops of track and it was DCC. I know nowadays we live in a tech age but I personally don’t think you can beet a physical controller with a dial or ‘knob’ (can’t help but smirk when I hear that word), for example my select controller.
I have the Fleischman/Roco DCC controller complete with three hand controllers with knobs. Two of them are wireless. I mainly use the app to change addresses and CVs.
To be fair, all engines are "DCC Ready" if you're willing to breakout the soldering iron. :) And the power supply looks to be the second one of its type that I've seen. Kato has a similar unit for it's DC engines; you could even buy an attachable sound box for engine-specific sounds. :)
I can see the hornby staff running around with a roll of blank sticky labels covering up the DCC logo. Cheaper than printing new boxes!
I’m happy that they start including track mats in their beginner sets again, I remember I got a Thomas set from 2018 and it didn’t have one. They are not necessities but for beginners it makes playing with trains a lot more fun
The “Harry Potter motor” really got me 😂 😂 😂
Haha that might explain why the DCC socket is hidden in the chamber of secrets
haha!! That must be it - and I'm not going there to get it back ;)
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
@@AntoekneeDE lol
I started with a very similar starter set. It had the new controller that most people don't like, 4 wagons and the same amount of track. The entire set cost me £50 thanks to Christmas sales! What a great deal that was.
Wow that was a great deal!! Did that have the set of points too?! Amazing!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
@@SamsTrains Yes, it did! The exact set is the West coast Highlander if you are interested!
Loving the recyclable cardboard packaging in the new sets that replace the polystyrene packaging.
You should set up a different "book" for train sets vs individual quality models. I would like to see the train set comparisons.
Perhaps with a slightly different rating system, comparing the value of the items inside vs buying them seperately, the bigger the difference the higher the score?
Yeah totally - if I did more train sets I'd definitely do that... it's just that I look at only one or two a year, so there's no point really :(
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I do love these train set videos. Whether it's you reviewing an actual toy train set for OO/HO or you're reviewing a proper starter set like this one. I always find these videos so enjoyable to watch for some reason and I look forward to possible future reviews of train sets!
Love your videos. A Yank here who has modeled trains sets and layouts since 1970. O, HO, Z and mostly N the last 8 years. As of late been picking up OO. Felt ripped off so many times by Hornby, Heljan, Bachman, Dapol with very few exceptions. Your in depth reviews have helped greatly.
You are spot on with this set. Picked up three of these at 100 pounds/$128 US. Picked up another recently at a slight increase. 113 pound/$144 US.
Fantastic deal for a 4x8 or 8x4 layout depending on your view. This is specifically for my seven grankids and I. Love this set up for analog. Tested great on the track mat. Since its for the kids we are going to keep it fun and simple since its a out of school summer vacation project. Keep up the fantastic fun and informative work you offer all of us model train enthusiasts!
I'm actually considering getting this set for the loco and the controller. I'm after the HM6000 for my 0 gauge garden railway, and the Bagnall is the only type of pocket rocket I don't yet have (also don't have one of the new lower-speed pocket rockets either). However, that then leaves me with a load of track, some wagons, and a big box that I have no use for.
The DCC ready marking on the box vs no DCC socket is false advertising. The Hornby website doesn't specify if the sets are DCC ready or not (I looked into a few of them), and other retailers also don't mention it on their descriptions.
Good to see the tanker comes with the ladders, which it seems older trainsets didn't.
One addition Hornby could make to the HM6000 range would be a small range of battery powered bluetooth handsets to act as a physical version of the app. I'd prefer a small box with a knob on it to control my single track garden railway than having to use a smart device.
Sounds great! With a 4amp power supply, this could totally power O gauge locos very easily! Yes it's definitely not supposed to be there - the set has no DCC features whatsoever!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Hornby should update the box, quickly! I'm sure you have packaging laws in the UK... Cheers, Dan.
I'm sure we do too - not too good that!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I personally wouldn't like the touch screen control, but I can also see the discretion you can have with your train set. Instead of having a controller sitting out, you can conceal it and when you show your friends you can surprise them as your trains come to life seemingly on their own. It also seems to make it easier to control at a distance which seems quite nice.
"the physicality of a knob.." something you wanna say Sam? ;"D great vid as always. Nice set for a decent price.
Being an American who collected train sets in the 90's and watching SMT Mainline in addition to this Channel, I'm noticing the array of couplers in HO and OO scales. Over here (US and Canada) there seems to be a strong preference for knuckle couplers (with the exception of primarily "Thomas and Friends" modelers (Like Trainboy and the Unlucky Tug), who seem to err towards the UK Style) while over there (over there! Spread the word! Spread the word over the- where was I? Oh right!) There seems a preference for Loop Couplers...and the European Mainland has yet another system that I'm still confused as to how it works...
Have you considered a video discussing the various types of couplers? Perhaps exploring the pros and cons of each of an experiment video perhaps? Maybe even research or speculation as to why these preferences exist?
Curiosity got the better of me especially the HM6000 controller. Just bought it from Amazon for £103.46 which isn't bad value. In 2022 it still says DCC ready on box but not worried about that and the loco and trucks easily come apart for some more realistic airbrush treatment.
The set contains track pack A which is good as well. Track packs B C & D arrived today from Amazon to complete the trackmat saving £40.55. Got a nice reasonably priced little portable layout for patio etc as main layout (15/12ft) is in the loft and not moving.
Thanks for the video Sam.
There was an Aussie TV cop drama back in the 70s called 'Matlock' Police. Two of the leading actors were Tom Richards & Paul Cronin. I wonder if there is a connection ?
Have had this set since May, after returning to the hobby after 40 years break. I am having a lot of fun with it. I especially enjoy the control system. Shunting with the Brake & Acceleration features enabled is my favourite.
I have purchased a little bit of extra track & got my Collectors Club loco, I can have 1 train running round the circuit while the other shunts the sidings both under finger tip control !! - also ‘sounds’ through my speakers !!
Next step for me is electric control of my sidings points via the app and an accessory controller. Which will be even more fun !!
That's very good to hear - it certainly is a great experience! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Hi Sam! You should hook this up to ur layout and test some locos on it to see how slow they can go especially the bachmann 08 shunter
When they works seriously, they can do really good products at Hornby. Like this one.
Honestly, their HM 6000 system is one of the best products tought out, made and sold today : cheap overall, 80% of DCC functionalities for less than 20% of the price, and nothing to do on your locomotives. With collector's item, that's a bonus. This system can be enough for a small terminus-type layout, for instance. By the way, you have two track circuits controlable by controller, how many controllers can you run with one app ? I would be interested to know that, not everybody runs a dozen engines at the same time (I tried, it's... complicated !).
It has none of the features of a DCC controller. It's just an old fashioned analogue controller but controlled on a touchscreen.
You can buy a fully functioning DCC controller for £54.96. (SPROG II).
Good for beginners and good for re-beginners. I've got quite a lot of 60s to early 80s OO stuff tucked away in a cupboard (I'd have to move a lot of other stuff out of the way to get to it), so I bought one of these sets as a cheat.
I remember finding an excellent deal on an A4 Mallard from Bachmann at a show, the seller didn’t know if it was DCC ready or not…so I checked Bachmann’s website and it confirmed it was DCC ready…so I purchased it…then I found out it was an error, it wasn’t just not DCC ready, it was a split chassis and a bugger to convert!
I personally think that these new HM 6000 train sets that are coming out are great fun for the family, as much as the beginner modellers, because I feel that they could do these, if people aren’t ready for the DC or DCC controlled layouts as of yet, and it’s definitely worth getting to start with and maybe much better than the Hornby Junior tracks, and could be great help for layouts in the future, when serious modellers will do it, especially to hide the controllers under tables or baseboards, whatever, I think it will be brilliant for everyone in the future to use on phones or tablets for the future.
Thank you Sam for making this!
nice to see a new train set from hornby i would see new people joining the hobby getting this set.
Hi Sam, so glad you had fun with the train set. Could you do a video or part of a video about the best way or ways to uncouple Hornby stock? That would be helpful for us all to get more fun out of shunting. Is there a good uncoupling device out there other than track mounted uncouplers? Many thanks. Very best wishes, Adrian
I see this question was two years ago but when I had a Hornby as a kid in the 70's they did a sprung 'ramp' that sat between the tracks. You'd put it just past the points on the siding and pushing a wagon over it and stopping would uncouple the thing as they weren't under tension. The wagon would roll off to the buffer stop. When under tension the ramp didn't interfere with the couplings, would just depress. I also had a Triang/Hornby spade-like tool in black vinyl that you'd slip under the couplings to lift them.
thanks for showing me the box layout sam got this out to have a peak for my bday and all fell out couldent figure out the layout how it fit in
Thanks for the HM 6000 i traveller train set review.
I sold all my DCC layout etc a couple of years ago and was experiencing withdrawal symptoms.
I purchased this set to combat that and it's really good, I only want a small set up will add a few locos etc later. Amazon were doing them for £87:34 a real bargain.Thanks for bringing this set to my attention.
I kind of agree, I love traditional controls but I am a fan of universal use so it can work with a DC, DCC, Laptop or Cellphone. What matters most is anyone can use it.
Sam you are a very generous man on some of your videos. The only thing I see worth it in this set is the controller. I have purchased a lot of Hornby train sets and I think this one is over priced. The engine is the same as the Coke Cola engine in that Christmas train set . Only the livery is different. Thanks for video.
as someone who is younger and wanting to get into the hobby, I'd love to see a controller like this that is DCC. While I am not currently able to have my own layout, It is something that would sell me on a controller like this instantly. Or maybe having one that is DC and one that is DCC for older models and newer models. Both being controlled by the app, and both running at the same time. I also would love to see some more stuff like this introduced in the states. While the hobby isn't as big in the states, there are a lot of engines I'd love to get my hands on without having to call my bank and let them know I'm purchasing something from Great Britain. That and knowing I'm gonna have trains in two different sizes.
Hey Sam @9:07 Yep your right - I've started to notice that aswell - the last 2 or 3 Train Sets I bought came with a Railer!!! Also @ 16:27 - you shoud of rang Hornby & ask them & see what they would of said!!! 😉🚂🚂🚂
That's a pretty decent beginners train set with decent loco, wagons and a decent mount of track and I do like how you can control the trains with a smart device
I have a really silly question 🤪 (sorry in advance) On your score page, in the background, you have two circuits of trains going around. A steam loco with 3 carriages and a endless rake of wagons in the top right and i always wonder: Whats pulling the wagons?! How are they going round and round endlessly hahaaaa. I know this has nothing to do with this (very well done) review, but it always intrigues me whenever i see the score page and today was the day i decided to ask 😆.
I personally don't like the idea of using your phone to control your trains, there's no sense of feedback when you slide the dials etc
Will be sticking with my "old fashioned" controllers if that is such a thing to say ;D
I'm late to this review but all the names on the wagons are members of an alternative metal band called Starset. I'm not familiar with them although I am a metal fan! Clearly someone at Hornby HQ is into their rock and metal as they've done some King Crimson themed rolling stock before and I think I spotted some Rush stuff once too? Keep on rocking Sam! 😎🤘
The frequency of the controller can be altered for slower running. It can be adjusted for lots of different types of engine/motor.
The Diesel Loco reminds me at the V15 from the former GDR, also in Blue
I must say the HM6000 looks like a compelling option for those stuck inbetween wanting to not spend a lot of money with analog, but also wanting the functionality of full fat DCC
Yeah absolutely - I think it's very compelling! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
The curves and straights mix is good; it's fascinating for a total train nerd to watch the train snake in and out of curves.
I agree! Even better with some of the extra track packs! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I got my SD80MAC last weekend, it's an awesome engine
On the Christmas wish list it goes. Brilliant review Sam 🙂
haha fantastic - thanks so much! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Hi Sam ...i just wanted to ask if the controller have PWM frequency buzz like other Hornby controllers...
The main question I have is if the bagnall shunter is able to run on a standard controller, or can it only operate on the HM 6000
Yes it will work on a normal controller
Yeah absolutely - it's a traditional analogue loco... so it'll work on any analogue controller as usual!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I'd love to see a short video showing the controller with another loco, maybe a railroad loco to get an idea of what performance you could expect when you start to expand!
Sure! Check out my main review on the controller - I tested it with a range of locos there!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
@@SamsTrains hey Sam I just wanted to ask you if the train from each train set you review would fit on your own ho scale layout because I would like to see you do a running sessions video of just trains that are included in train sets thanks again for the video
Great little set, i think this will be my 1st starter set back into the hobby 😀💪
Quite an interesting set I'll probably pick one up once I go to England again. At first I was a bit skeptical about the controller because to me playing with trains means that I put my phone away, but you convinced me that it's worth it. The simulated acceleration and and braking was a huge surprise for me. Absolutely love the livery of the loco and the wagons. An excellent quality set. Great review, Sam 👍
Thank you! I'd recommend it - it's a lot of fun! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Bit of dry brushing with poster paint ( because you can wash it off) and honestly, everything would look great. The cab of the loco, well print or draw an interior and as you say add figures - light wash of grime on the windows and it will look the part.
I recognize the blue diesel as the same design that Hornby used in their CocaCola set, one of which I've had for quite a few months now.
In fact, I'm pretty sure Hornby used this same Bagnall design when they made their model of the Thomas character 'Dart'.
Yep absolutely - it just looks very different in this blue!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Got this so I could run 2 trains from one unit at a really cheap price. The only sting was that my model of phone won't connect but its great on the ipad and kids love the noises!
Yeah exactly - ahh that's a pity - I'm surprised - which phone are you using??
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Lol that logo on the diesel engine. Reminds me of the dharma initiative from lost.
Whenever you review a train set I always start crying honestly. I bought a lifelike train set and was gifted another one in a Santa Fe box. I bought some lifelike kits, Bachmann plasticville kits, second hand rolling stock and the Hornby turntable. I was too young to work out the mechanics of model trains and I’m still highly inexperienced. It’d be great if you could do a tutorial of how to properly wire up the Hornby turntable in the future. Unfortunately I think my Hornby turntable will never turn around. I still have a bunch of unassembled kits lying around still on their sprue. I do not recommend lifelike controllers. You have to solder the wires to pick ups on terminal rails. Hopefully one day I can afford hobby electricians to help fix my model train technology
Most of the life like controllers I had stopped working after a while, the train before hand.
Hi Sam. I googled Richards & Cronin re the wagon and all I got was said wagon! Yep, they made it up! Lol.
27:52 did it derail at the top of the hill?
Triang sets of sixty years ago included working simple uncoupling ramps for hands free remote uncoupling that enabled shunting to be performed. No wiring needed.
The uncoupling functions of the mark 3 tension lock couplings was a selling feature adding realistic play value and so was featured in catalogues and instruction manuals for many years.
Yet recent UK model train logic is not to supply them or uniform standard couplings that work with ramps.
So with no uncoupling system how do you shunt with a shuting layout?
Widespread advice from my fellow club members at our exhibitions and open days is to start with equipment that uses remotely operating couplers like the Kadee knuckle design. As used by nearly all layouts on display. The remote uncoupling is one of the things that impress new entrants that they are not dealing with toy train sets.
The UK approach locking people into the toy train set approach of giving lots of junk to be discarded.
Yeah you're right John - I've seen those at train fairs and such - great idea if you ask me! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
You didn't do as well in Hattons as you thought! I paid £89.99 including P&P from eBay. Ha Ha. I have been too busy in the garden to get my new iTraveller train set out, so I was interested in your review. I think it will be good for making videos since you will be able to operate the camera without having to grovel around o the floor reaching for the controller. I like the engine and the rolling stock too. By the way, the official term for the "egg-box" used by Hornby is the "pulp tray". I got the HM6010 (which has the DCC input) for £27.95 including P&P. "DCC compatible" only means you can use a DCC signal as a power source with the HM6010. I don't recommend you do this. Thanks for uploading.
I think the name themes are poets/writers and poetry stuff!
I can't have this train set because I don't have a smartphone. You've gotten confident with it all of a sudden, I see. Trivia time: you used the same extension lead socket as was used for your Inglenook Challenge. At the end of both sessions, there was a fake explosion. Perhaps I was the inspiration behind it. Let me know.
Finally! I'm going to enjoy this one :)
Thanks Jason - I hope you do! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
What are the higher quality engines like with this controller? I'm curious as to whether it can get them to crawl like traditional controllers can. Also the price of the controller on Hornby's site has been bumped up to £32!
I have over 150 locos of varying ages and some modem ones over 200 pounds. All locos work great with it. I think Sam got it wrong the normal price has always been about 30 bit discounts can be had.
Check out my review of the controller if you're interested - I tried lots of locos on it there!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
sorry i havent been commenting its been a busy past few days. this is a really good beginner set!
Bachmann did this. The EZ-app locos they sell over here.
How about a Flying Scotsman Pullman Motorail?
Perhaps you can use the controller on your large layout or other locomotives. DCC ready... well, in using your controller, it is Digitally Direct Controlled.
Overall, yes... a very nice beginners price for what you get. An honest review, I think. Put the bus on the siding... on the second circuit track.
John Canada
I'm an analog person in a digital age so the livery of the loco may be a nod to the fact if that's it's using new technology
I always think theese set's are a great way to get folks into the hobby sure it can be cheaper to go on eBay but not everyone has the time ir effort to do all that, Also good show to Hornby using cardboard instead of polystyrene bit tidyer and better on the environment
They absolutely are Josh! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I was waiting for you to review this one. Really nice set and good value. Excellent fun factor value as well.
a very good up to date set. for the modern boy /girl getting into model trains for the first time. not for me but i won't knock it and at a very good price too. thanks sam. cheers tom.
Hey sam, check out the modelex analog controller, its very similar to the gaugemaster combi but styled a little differently. I ordered one a while ago and have been using it lots with no issues or complaints. the only thing is you need to source a power supply and soter to the plug on the controller
I like the look of the controller but both Hattons and Hornby do not have the plug transformer in stock. You would think that the transformer should be readily available to match up with the controller.
Exactly - that was my big complaint when I reviewed the controller... and several months on, it's still a problem!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Is it a good price at 79.99?
Ever since Z-wave i am suspicious about "you can control all of this just by your phone" see everything has its limits and the aforementioned smartarse home thingy had quite strange set of caveats.
Personally i'd glue the steam crew somewhere on front of the locomotive, the one with "shovel" attempting to open the door suggesting they are locked out.
I wonder if the wallpaper of all the locomotive products can even be ordered anymore, i would hope that at least separately it is available. In here such things were predominantly used as quick visual reference guide on sides of hobbyist shops, whilst i have not ventured into the train set section alot i did notice how neat it was, hell it could have easily been a Hornby i am reasonably certain they do sell here aswell.
i did kinda miss watching train sets, at least it tends to have slight difference from standard track.
Hi Sam you should do an experiment seeing how long the i raveller runs for without disconnecting from the app/internet for 24hrs (like what you did with miles the caledonian 0-4-0)
This set is themed on the band Starset for some reason. Another set was King Crimson themed.
Forgot to ask, the controller just hooks up as normal to a standard r8206 power straight?
My childhood dream of looping a model train tracks around my house
When i first started getting back into this wonderful hobby of ours i eventually got round to buying a Gaugemaster Model D controller,when my good lady saw it she said 'that look's really old fashioned' to which i replied 'that's why i like it' :) to be honest Sam i don't like it,and i hate the livery on the little loco.You do get a fair bit for your money though,but how on Earth is a trackmat £20!?
This set is now showing on the Hornby Web site shop at £144.99. The HM 6000 is now shown at £32.99, The P9101 power supply is £24.99
That's right - Hornby have increased their prices now. My vids are filmed quite a way in advance, so they'll take a while to catch up to the recent price increase!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Excellent review of the iTraveller train set Sam 👍
I really like the idea of controlling trains with an IPad or IPhone and I don’t know if you can buy the HM 6000 on it own without needing it in a train set.
Yes I bought it separate
Why do train sets not add oil applicator? Mostly aimed at starters.
Not a bad set but if that was me opening it and seeing that its not as they say DCC ready then it would have been back in the box and sent back and ask them to make it ready to accept a decoder. Not good at all really for the amount of times they say their qaulity is a lot better.
awesome set I'll might consider myself on getting one
When I saw the dcc ready I actually got excited and thought I might try and pick it up. Very upsetting to see that its not.
I agree - it'd be awesome if these had sockets inside :(
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Very nice review. Interesting setup using a analogue set with modern digital like controls.
I understand that the idea is odd controlling trains with your phone or tablet etc. But you get used to it quickly and it has so many advantages having a mobile device instead of a fixed controller.
I've been using a app based system for my trains. Be it a digital AC system, it has a full controller with dails etc but also a touch screen. But most importantly it has app support for multiple mobile devices (uses wifi) so you can have friends over and each control their own train(s)
It works pretty much the same as your Hornby app with slider for speed etc.
Personally I wouldn't want to go back to only a fixed controller.
The loco and wagons may be basic, but for children after their first 'train set', the play value of this is going to be phenomenal.
It may spark a love of model railways which can then be expanded and built on, unlike some of the other basic train sets which are often no way expandable. If it doesn't, nobody's really lost much in buying it.
The thing that would make me doubt is the fact it is controlled by a smart device. Whilst I accept the argument for such a controller, I can't help wonder if it had been better to have been an analogue device compatible set too since even today some parents are reluctant to give younger children such devices.
Yeah absolutely - their basic nature is perfectly appropriate in a train set! But yes that's a fair point - and of course Hornby still produce a wealth of train sets with traditional controllers too, to cater for the younger people. Then again, young kids should only be using train sets under supervision... so having a parent-owned smartphone as a barrier might be a good idea!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
It's a good effort. I like their cheap diesels and the controller will be a novelty. I did have one on pre-order but I cancelled it when they cancelled my Capt Tom order.
Awesome video today Sam beautiful train set and I love the controller
Great review Sam! You should write a book about being a model railway man!
Hey Sam, you can run several trains on the same track if you got track blocks.
Thanks as usual Sam. I'd like to think the DCC ready logo is just a stupid mistake by Hornby - but of course it's misleading and they need to amend that packaging.
Agreed. A major error which could easily annoy a parent at Christmas/birthday if buying for their children. Very misleading and unprofessional.
@@pettra1 bit like Sam's reviews where he's omitting rather vital information that he is either leaving out through neglect or ignorance, needs to become a bit more comprehensive in his understanding.
I’m just wondered but have you ever thought about reviewing n gauge locos?
Great video Sam.
I am a Welded on LUDDITE and find DC just fine.
But That little controller is a Great upgrade. It may not be DCC, but I like it. ( A poor mans Dcc option..)
Thanks for the review. Now where do I buy a couple of those Controllers..!!
Cheers kim, in Oz.😎
As at 10.30am on Thursday 2nd September 2021 on following the links prices are £130.00 at Hatton’s and £109.00 at Amazon. N.B. Prices are excluding any postage and packaging and Amazon says they only have two left in stock at this time.
Thanks for sharing - yeah I notice the Hatton's price is much higher now - hopefully more available on Amazon soon then!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I wonder if this model can only work with the cellphone controls
They I would have a look always like honestly is actually a little diesel their are blue colours Sam's train?
Hi Sam, Jadlam Racing are selling this set for £107.95 on Ebay.
I was gonna get this set but I’m going to settle on the gwr freight. Especially now the mixed traffic is out of production 😭😭
Ahh no problem - that looks like a very good set too! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Curious why Hornby supplies crew with locos with no cab floor
I was surprised to see Swedish warning text on the box when you zoomed in on the DCC ready logo. Hornby isn't usually marketed in Sweden, we have more of a H0 Germanic tradition when it comes to model railroads.
That's very interesting! Wonder if they're looking to expand?
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
@@SamsTrains All they would have to do is replace the power supply to be able to sell on the mainland european market.
Hi Sam, good video that showed the HM6000 which I didn't know existed. How does this controller compare with the traditional Hornby controllers when it comes to rather lengthy resetting after a short. Would the second part of the controller work if you were to say set a track on the inside of the rail so that when you put a train into the inner loop, via a set of points, off the main track and then set the points back to main line outer track, could you then run the inner track on the second track power supply? Hope that makes sense. Cheers, Rick the Bulldog
My first train set was much like this but mine came with two loops of track and it was DCC. I know nowadays we live in a tech age but I personally don’t think you can beet a physical controller with a dial or ‘knob’ (can’t help but smirk when I hear that word), for example my select controller.
I have the Fleischman/Roco DCC controller complete with three hand controllers with knobs. Two of them are wireless. I mainly use the app to change addresses and CVs.
To be fair, all engines are "DCC Ready" if you're willing to breakout the soldering iron. :)
And the power supply looks to be the second one of its type that I've seen. Kato has a similar unit for it's DC engines; you could even buy an attachable sound box for engine-specific sounds. :)