Cable stations and functional trainers
You can purchase a cable station or functional trainer at Fitnessdepot starting from € 1,999 for the Martech FT90 with 2 x 90 kg, up to € 11,995 for the DKN Smart Functional Trainer. You can feel the difference between a 1:1 and 2:1 cable ratio yourself on the Martech M6 and M10 in our showroom in Ranst. You get a 3-year warranty on Martech, a lifetime warranty on the frame, and our own team installs the machine on-site.
Functional trainer, cable crossover, or rack with cables: which cable station do you need?
You primarily choose a cable station based on the cable ratio, the weight of the stacks, and your available space. There are four types:
- Functional trainer (€ 1,999 to € 11,995). Two columns with height-adjustable pulleys for cable exercises from any angle. For example, the Martech FT90.
- Cable crossover (€ 2,195 to € 3,259). A wider frame with a pull-up bar, allowing two users to train side by side. For example, the Body-Solid GDCC250.
- Rack with cables (from € 2,900). Cables combined with a half rack for free weights, giving you two pieces of equipment in one. For example, the Martech M8 Twinratio.
- Motor resistance (€ 2,695). Servomotors simulate the weight, eliminating the need for weight stacks or plates. For example, the Sole SVRO.
Cable stations and functional trainers compared
All equipment listed in this table can be tested in our showroom in Ranst.
| Model | Type | Resistance | Ratio | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Martech FT90 | Functional trainer | 2 x 90 kg | 2:1 | € 1,999 |
| Body-Solid GDCC250 | Cable crossover | 2 x ± 73 kg | 2:1 | € 2,195 |
| Sole SVRO | Motor resistance | 1.5 to 60 kg | Not applicable | € 2,695 |
| Martech M8 Precision | Rack with cables | 2 x 90 kg | 1:1 | € 2,900 |
| Martech M8 Twinratio | Rack with cables | 2 x 90 kg | 1:1 and 2:1 | € 3,250 |
| Marbo MP-U204 | Cable crossover | Shielded stack | - | € 3,259 |
| DKN Smart Functional Trainer | Functional trainer | Digital | Not applicable | € 11,995 |
You can find more racks with integrated cables, including those with a smith machine, under power racks and squat racks.
What should you look out for?
Cable ratio 1:1 or 2:1
With a 1:1 ratio, you feel the exact weight you select over a shorter cable travel. With a 2:1 ratio, you feel half of the stack weight and have twice the cable travel: a 5 kg plate feels like 2.5 kg. A 1:1 ratio suits heavy lat pulldowns and low rows, while a 2:1 ratio is ideal for warm-ups, rehabilitation, crossovers, and explosive movements.
What you feel at the handle
Calculate the weight to match what you pull per cable. The FT90 features two 90 kg stacks in a 2:1 ratio, meaning a maximum of 45 kg per cable. With the M8 Precision and Twinratio, you can expand the weight stack from 90 to 110 kg using an expander pin.
Adjustment positions and swivel pulleys
The more positions available, the more precisely you can adjust each exercise to your height. The FT90 has 21 positions, the GDCC250 has 20 heights, the M8 Twinratio features 32, and the M8 Precision offers 34, in increments of approximately 5 cm. Pulleys that rotate 180° follow your movement, ensuring the cable runs in the correct alignment.
Height, footprint, and pull-up bar
The FT90 is 216 cm high with a 1.7 m² footprint, while the M8 Twinratio rack stands at 236 cm tall. The MP-U204 features a pull-up bar with up to 10 grip positions and weighs 415 kg. If you plan on doing pull-ups, make sure to measure the clearance to the lowest beam or light fixture, as your head will rise above the bar.
Build quality and motor resistance
The FT90 is built with aluminum pulleys and cables rated up to 800 kg. The MP-U204 complies with the PN-EN 957-4, class S standard, featuring plexiglass panels around the weight stack. The Sole SVRO operates with 2 servo motors and offers 3 training modes via the SOLE+ app, so make sure a power outlet is available nearby.
Showroom tip: test the lat pulldown on an M8 in Ranst, preferably alongside everyone who will be using the equipment at home. This way, you can check whether the ratio and seat height are right for you.
Which cable station for whom?
- At home: if you already own a rack, a standalone functional trainer like the FT90 is a more cost-effective choice. If you do not have one yet, an M8 gives you both in a single unit. Short on space? The SVRO is a compact platform without weight stacks. See also setting up your home gym.
- PT studio: on a cable crossover such as the GDCC250, you use the two cables independently, allowing you to train two clients side by side. Read how The Centre of Body & Mind designed a PT studio around a Martech M8 3IN1 cable machine.
- Physiotherapy practice: a 2:1 ratio allows for fine adjustments. The M8 Twinratio combines both ratios, suitable for rehabilitation as well as heavier exercises. Also check out fitness equipment for physical therapists.
- Hotel and corporate gym: choose a commercially built device with a shielded stack, such as the MP-U204, made for public sports facilities. See corporate fitness and renting and leasing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a cable station and a functional trainer?
Both terms are used interchangeably for a device with adjustable cables and weight stacks. A functional trainer typically features two columns with height-adjustable pulleys, whereas a cable crossover is wider and often suitable for pull-ups.
Which exercises can you perform with a functional trainer?
With the pulleys high, you can do pulldowns, triceps pushdowns, and face pulls; at chest height, cable flys, chest presses, and woodchops. With the pulleys low, you can do biceps curls, low rows, lateral raises, cable kickbacks, and pull-throughs.
How much space do you need for a functional trainer?
More than the footprint of the device itself, because during flys, lunges, and rotations, you stand a significant distance in front of it with your arms extended to the sides. We design your space in 3D for free, allowing you to see whether that movement zone remains clear.
How do you maintain cables and pulleys?
Check all cables for fraying or kinks at least once a year, and vacuum beneath the protective covers. The Martech M8 is delivered fully lubricated and is maintenance-free under normal use.
Is a cable station installed for you?
Yes, if you request installation: the machine arrives in parts and our own team assembles it on-site, including the removal of packaging. This costs between € 75 and approximately € 350 per machine, depending on the size. Delivery in the Benelux is free from € 199 and you have a 30-day cooling-off period.
What warranty do you receive on a cable station?
Martech comes with a 3-year warranty and a lifetime warranty on the frame; Fitnessdepot is the exclusive distributor of Martech in the Benelux. A standard 2-year warranty applies to the other brands.
Can I experience the difference between 1:1 and 2:1 myself?
Yes, on the Martech M6 and M10 in our showroom in Ranst: both combine 1:1 and 2:1. You can walk in freely from Monday to Thursday from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM and Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. On Saturdays, you can visit from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, or you can make an appointment.
Want to learn more? Read our guide to find out when to choose a 1:1 or a 2:1 cable ratio.
Read the guideAdvice by Thibaud Martens, fitness advisor at Fitnessdepot. Prices updated on October 31, 2026.