Cost No Object: Machines and Free Weights, the Best of the Best. PART 2
Cost No Object List, Version 1.8:
This thread is not meant to be a free weights vs machines thread, and I think we got that out of the way early in the thread. This thread is simply about discussing all the choices of various free weights and machine choices on the market that people feel represent the best choice, regardless of cost. Certainly best bang for the buck is always relevant as well, but the thread is primarily focused on what is the best product available.
No company makes all of the best equipment, not even close. This thread is about discussing the best available individual machines. While some extreme body types (very short, very tall, very large, etc..) might work better with some equipment rather than others, a machine that is voted best of best is most often very adjustable and can be used with the widest variety of body types and still retain the best biomechanics (most importantly under maximum weight/effort).
Ultimately, when it comes to machines, biomechanics and how a machine 'feels' is by far the critical factor in determining what machine is best. One of the best ways to determine the quality of a machine's biomechanics, is the ability of a machine to allow perfect form when using a maximum amount of weight (effort). Additionally, the ideal machine will also have adequate starting position (pre-stretch) and a very large range of motion.
Another strength of this thread is the discussion on rare and unique specialty benches: autospot benches, skull crushers, dumbbell pullover benches, curved benches, etc...