My local HO pusher was complaining to me today about Athearn's policy of not producing the entry level F units in that scale. It appears that they are only interested in selling the high priced, RTR units. To my friend, who DID complain to them, the entry level locomotives are very important to the rug rats and older, who just may like what they see. If they take it out in the dirt or flush it, at least Dad hasn't spent big bucks. If the new fan likes what he sees, there is a new member of our esteemed brotherhood, and more business for Athearn, and others.
As for me, I like to put the stuff together, maybe change some stuff, or add details. I don't need an assembled item. For that reason I only buy used items that I can modify to my liking. I guess I'm a minority. I even paint and decal!