Broadway Limited Imports

Lore & Background

Broadway Limited Imports was founded in 2001 by Anton Wenzel, Bob Zimet, and Robert Grubba. In 2004, Grubba bought out the interests of his partners, and the company moved to Ormond Beach, Florida the following year. On April 8, 2007, BLI combined their website with Precision Craft Models, Inc.

In 2007, the company expanded its offering with the "Blueline" product line. These HO-scale models feature digital sound systems but lack DCC remote control, selling for about half the price of the Paragon series. The purchaser can add remote control later with a plug-in decoder module. In 2009, the Paragon2 line was introduced, utilizing an integrated DCC decoder that can be operated on DC track as well, along with DCC sound capability and steam generating units on many locomotives.

In 2015, BLI introduced Rolling Thunder, a system covered by US patent #7,634,411, which transmits low frequency bass sounds from a locomotive to a subwoofer located beneath the model train layout. The bass sounds play in synchronization with the audio from the on-board speakers housed in the locomotive.

Reader's Guide

Broadway Limited Imports occupies a distinctive niche in model railroading by focusing on limited-production runs of highly detailed locomotives and rolling stock with integrated sound and control technology. The company's early adoption of Digital Command Control decoders and authentic train sound reproduction set it apart from mass-market manufacturers. The introduction of the Blueline series in 2007 made digital sound accessible at a lower price point, while allowing future upgrade to full DCC control. The Paragon2 line further broadened compatibility by enabling operation on both DC and DCC layouts. The 2015 Rolling Thunder system represents an innovation in model railroad audio, using a subwoofer to reproduce low-frequency sounds in synchronization with onboard speakers. By combining limited-edition production runs with advanced electronics, BLI has established a reputation for offering specialized, feature-rich models that appeal to serious hobbyists seeking prototypical accuracy and immersive sound experiences.

Did You Know?

• The Blueline series, introduced in 2007, offers digital sound at about half the price of the Paragon series.
• The Paragon2 line, introduced in 2009, can operate on both DC and DCC track.
• Rolling Thunder, patented in 2015, transmits bass sounds to a subwoofer beneath the layout.