Rick Keat Fitness PMAC 5600 Review: Is This Budget Home Gym Worth Your Money?
If you're looking for an affordable all-in-one home gym solution that won't break the bank or take up your entire basement, the Rick Keat Fitness PMAC 5600 might be on your radar. This budget-friendly system offers multiple training stations in one compact footprint, but does it deliver enough quality and performance to justify the investment? Let's break down everything you need to know about this versatile home gym option.
What You Get With The PMAC 5600
The PMAC 5600 is a 6-in-1 system that includes:
- Power rack with J-cups and spotter arms
- Dual cable pulley system with weight stacks
- Smith machine
- Pull-up station with multiple grip options
- Landmine attachment
- Weight storage options
At around $2,000 (though prices fluctuate with sales), this system targets the budget-conscious home gym enthusiast who wants multiple training options without purchasing separate pieces of equipment.
Build Quality and Specifications
The frame construction uses 14-gauge steel with 2×2 inch uprights, which is standard for most budget home gym systems. At 86 inches tall and approximately 80 inches wide, it offers sufficient height for taller users while maintaining a reasonable footprint that works in basements, garages, or spare rooms.
The rack features:
- 15 adjustment holes on the front uprights
- 16 trolley adjustments for the cable system
- 400+ pound weight capacity for the cables
- A dual 163 lb weight stack system
The Smith machine offers 10 adjustment heights and uses a relatively lightweight bar (approximately 25 pounds) with a mix of passive knurling throughout.
Performance Analysis
Cable System
The cable system utilizes 360-degree swivel attachments which provide good flexibility for various exercises. The cable travel distance is reasonable, allowing for a wide range of movements. However, there are some notable limitations:
- Plastic pulleys instead of aluminum (which are available as a separate upgrade)
- Some grinding noise during operation
- Hollow guide rods that may contribute to a less stable feel
- Concrete weight plates covered in plastic rather than steel plates
While functional for most basic cable exercises, the system doesn't provide the smoothness you'd find in commercial equipment or higher-end home options.
Smith Machine
The Smith machine includes safety hooks at various heights, which is a positive safety feature. However, users should be aware of some performance issues:
- Noticeable grinding during use despite lubrication
- Some oscillation/instability with heavier weights
- Limited markings for consistent hand placement
For lightweight training and basic movements, the Smith machine functions adequately, but those planning to lift heavier weights may find the stability issues concerning.
Power Rack Function
The power rack portion allows for standard barbell exercises with the included J-cups and spotter arms. The major concern here is the length of the spotter arms, which may be insufficient for proper safety during squats, as they don't extend far enough forward to reliably catch a failed lift.
Accessories and Add-ons
The PMAC 5600 comes with several accessories:
- Rope attachment
- Curl bar
- Adjustable handles
- Dip handles
- Lat pulldown bar
Storage options are plentiful, with multiple pegs for weight plates, attachment storage, and a barbell holder. This thoughtful inclusion helps maximize organization in limited spaces.
Pros
- Versatile 6-in-1 design saves space and money compared to buying individual pieces
- Attractive powder-coat black finish that appears durable
- Good height clearance for taller users
- Excellent storage options for weights and accessories
- 2×2 uprights compatible with many third-party attachments
- Reasonable footprint for smaller spaces
Cons
- Spotter arms are dangerously short for proper safety during squats
- Plastic pulleys create grinding and reduced smoothness
- Concrete/plastic weight stacks instead of steel plates
- No weight indicators visible when selecting weight
- Smith machine has stability issues with heavier loads
- Odd weight increments (163 lbs total) rather than standard progression
Who Should Consider This System?
The Rick Keat Fitness PMAC 5600 is best suited for:
- Beginners just starting their fitness journey
- Those on a tight budget who need multiple training options
- People with limited space who can't accommodate separate machines
- Families where multiple members with varying needs will use the equipment
- Those who primarily use lighter weights and focus on form over maximum loads
Who Should Look Elsewhere
This system may not be ideal for:
- Experienced lifters who regularly push heavy weights
- Those planning to use the system daily for many years
- People who prioritize smooth cable action and stability
- Lifters who need maximum safety features for solo training
The Bottom Line
The Rick Keat Fitness PMAC 5600 delivers versatility at a budget-friendly price point. For beginners or casual lifters looking to create a functional home gym without breaking the bank, it offers a reasonable solution that combines multiple training stations in one footprint.
However, serious lifters or those planning to make a long-term investment should consider the limitations in construction quality, particularly the plastic pulleys, concrete weight stacks, and stability issues with the Smith machine.
With some improvements to the spotter arms, pulley system, and weight stacks, this could become a much more competitive option in the budget all-in-one gym market. Until then, it represents a functional but imperfect solution for home workouts.
