Hornimann's much-anticipated new model of the Class 34 "Hampton" has arrived in the office at last - and it's quite the thriller. Performance is good throughout the speed range, although out of the box it was a little hesitant at low speeds. 15 minutes running in and a little lubrication soon settled things down, however. Regrettably the DCC socket is wired back to front and the product goes "zzub zzub zzub" unless you reverse the plug.
Although your reviewer is more at home with steam driven rather than electric models, I'm assured by my mates at the club that this is every inch a faithful replica of the real thing - apparently Hornimann's design team crawled all over several prototypes at length. It certainly matches all known drawings, but inexplicably seems much larger than your reviewer's own measurements. If I was forced to find fault I'd say that the rivets seem a little on the large side, but at least it makes them easier to count.
Another excellent product and one which can be recommended unreservedly. I'm sure many collectors will find a place for one.
Currently On My Stereo: Jethro Tull - Rock Island