Tell them you heard it here first....
Boxed sets are a MAJOR rip-off unless it's for a small kid, or someone who may not take to the hobby seriously.
Look through this site below for an excellent selection, with prices competetive with the best of them;
http://www.toytrainheaven.com/
Pick the type of loco you want in the roadname you want. Can hardly do that with a set! Get a decent MRC powerpack, nickle silver track, railjoiners, terminal joiners, pick the rolling stock in the "flavour" you want and you're in business.
Happy Rails to Youuuuu!
George.