{{ 'fb_in_app_browser_popup.desc' | translate }} {{ 'fb_in_app_browser_popup.copy_link' | translate }}
{{ 'in_app_browser_popup.desc' | translate }}
There are different levels of railway modelling. What we are about to introduce to you is no child's play – certainly not toy train sets with a simple battery-operated train that goes in loops on a few plastic tracks, but high-quality and professional model train sets that offer a truly immersive experience.
Welcome to our "Blog of Railway Specialist", where we'll guide you into the world of top-tier model railways.
A professional model railway isn't just a moving train with lighting effects. It includes intricate, faithfully recreated details, from the tiny screws on the roof right down to the undercarriage mechanical structures.
Passionate collectors source models of trains from around the globe. Some modellers even construct entire miniature railway cities, which can take years to complete. Blending engineering, art and research, railway modelling can be a very serious hobby.
You create a model train by scaling down a real train. The two most common scales used for professional layouts are:
· HO scale (1:87 approx.): This is the most popular scale worldwide. It's ideal for collecting, while allowing rich details to be captured – it's a joy just to look at them! MTR has also released 1:87 static models, and the first 1:87 MTR Pro-Series – Disneyland Resort Line train has now been launched.
· N scale (1:160 approx.): Smaller in size, but still very detailed, N scale models take up less space, meaning enthusiasts can collect more trains at home and operate them in compact layouts. For this reason, N scale is popular in Hong Kong and Japan where many people live in small spaces. To give you an idea, an eight-car MTR M-train in N scale can fit inside an A4 size box.
There are various model railway control systems. In Asia, direct current (DC) or analogue control is still the mainstream. With DC control, electricity is supplied via the tracks. Model trains with metal wheels receive power from the two metal rails, which supply positive and negative current to the motor. This allows the train to move forwards or backwards and power its lights. Different model trains can run together as long as their wheels are placed on the same powered track. DC control is used in both N and HO scale models and is one of the most basic model railway control systems.
The digital command control (DCC) system is a more advanced method of model railway control. Through communication between the track and a decoder fitted inside each locomotive, individual digital commands can be sent to multiple locomotives. This allows every train on the same line to be controlled independently, including its speed, direction, lighting, and even sound, greatly enhancing both realism and playability.
For beginners, we recommend starting with DC control. Once you're comfortable with the basics and understand the power system and maintenance, you can then step up to the world of DCC.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of Hong Kong Disneyland, and this model is our first release in a decade. We wanted to channel this celebratory spirit into our latest Pro-Series, creating a double delight for fans of both MTR models and Disneyland magic.
Furthermore, the Disneyland Resort Line train is brimming with unique details from the iconic Mickey Mouse shaped windows and straphangers to the dreamy starry ceiling. By masterfully integrating these distinctive elements with our upgraded, professional craftmanship, we have elevated this train model into a truly exceptional piece. It's a Pro-Series debut that perfectly captures the right moment, place and spirit!
That's all for now! Next time, we'll take a look at the materials used in model trains and what makes railway modelling such a rewarding hobby. Get ready to fall in love!