Does anyone have this or has tried it? If so, how do you like it? I have not seen any reviews. At only $399, it seems like it could be a good buy.

This device is similar to a bowflex. Some people report good results with this kind of device, however personally I don't like them that much.

The reason I don't like them is that the resistance they offer is uneven, easy at the beginning of the movement, and harder towards the end.

I never really worked out with a device like this, but I was able to try out both a bowflex and a similar weider device (not sure if it was the 450). The reps were either too easy at the beginning of the movement, or, if I added more resistance, they were ok at the beginning but so hard towards the end that I was unable to finish the reps.

What would be a comparable system (not a bowflex type) that does not have this limitation?

Many would recommend getting a bench and a set of dumbbells. Dumbbells are safer than barbells, since you can bench with as much weight as you want without risking being trapped under a barbell.

A lot of forum members here are "anti-machine", the main argument against them is that they moved in a fixed plane. With free weights, you need to balance them, recruiting smaller stabilizer muscles, arguably getting better results than with machines.

I'm not in the "anti-machine" camp (I might get blasted for saying this), since I think they are a lot safer than free weights, especially when working out by yourself. You can get a weight stack machine, unfortunately for the price of the Weider 450, I don't think you can get one with much resistance (perhaps 150 pounds max).

Maybe if you search craigslist.org you might find a used one with more resistance.

Hope that helps,
Eraser

Well I ended up getting the Weider Max from Walmart. (I guess you would call it a crossbow) And I must say I was quite pleased. For the price, it seems to be a pretty good machine. The 65 exercises is kind of a stretch since about 5 are unrealistic, and a few others are not comfortable. My legs are probably too strong for the leg press, but other than that, it's pretty good for now.

hey dela what do you think of the 450 after having it awhile now. i am thinking about getting the same machine myself.

dela I have the 450 and your right the resistance is too low for the leg press. Try using only one leg at a time. Be sure to center your foot. I've had mine about a year, and resently upgrated with a 100 lb bar.
Eraser is right about the resistance being easier at first and gets harder at the end. But, as for me, that is the best part. Unlike free weights that are harder at first and get easier at the end(no matter how strict you are). I also found great results without being so worn out after a workout (usually last about 45 min's 3 times a week) I think you have made a great choice, good luck.

Eraser as to your Jan. 5th post. The max 450 is a great blend of machine and free weight because of the cables,you have to recuit stabilizer muscles, and I believe to an even greater degree than with a barbell. Probably more similar to working with dumbells. I was a free weight kinda guy for most of my life, but now due to some personal reason I made the switch and I am glad I did. But you are right, it is all about what you like to use and as long as you are safe and put the work in, whats important is that you workout and like what you are doing and the results.

Like I mentioned, I am not "anti-machine", my main argument against the Crossbow/Bowflex is the variable resistance. I believe it is either way too easy at the beginning of the repetition, or OK at the beginning of the repetition but way too hard towards the end. But that is just me. If it works for you, great. Some local sporting good stores are carrying the bowflex and similar weider devices (I've seen them at ****'s Sporting Goods, The Sports Authority, and Sears). The best thing to do to decide is to drop by one of these and try them.

i have one of these (max 450) on order so i will write a review after i have had it awhile. like i figure most of you have, i did free weights and weight machines for many years. tried a bowflex sport a few years ago and it was okay but due to a bad back i have had to forgo a horizontal bench. a vertical bench is just far more comfortable for me. i am getting old and just want to stay in shape, not bulk up.