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Recently, founder Coop Mitchell and other members of the Garage Gym Reviews team went across the pond to the leading trade show for fitness, health, and wellness in Cologne, Germany—FIBO Global Fitness.
While there, Coop got to see and try out some of the latest fitness innovations in home gym essentials from top brands, including the prototype of the latest REP Ares cable attachment, an upgraded version of the initial cable system released just two years ago. The REP Ares was one of our favorite machines then (and a favorite among the home gym community), integrating functional trainer capabilities into a power rack.
Well, everyone remain calm…because it’s finally here. REP Fitness has released the Ares 2.0. We were able to get our hands on the cable system. In this REP Ares 2.0 review, we’ll take a look at the new cable attachment, as well as some of Coop’s thoughts to see who this upgraded cable system is right for, as well as the type of value it could bring to consumers.
REPping the Top Fitness Reviews
Since 2014, Garage Gym Reviews has been bringing honest, expert reviews on fitness equipment to consumers—all to help inform and educate home gym users on what home gym equipment and purchases they should make for their garage gym.
Our team consists of certified personal trainers, CrossFit Level 1 Trainers, weightlifting coaches, and lifelong athletes, all with the experience and knowledge to know what different fitness products can bring to the table for consumers. From weight plates to weight stacks, we’ve got you covered.
For this review, Coop got to try out the Ares 2.0 at FIBO and looked at many of the changes made to the cable attachment, shown in this full video of his first impressions. Along with that, we’ve now had time with it at GGR headquarters. With all cable machines we test, we look at features according to our fitness equipment testing methodology such as:
- Construction and durability
- Cable travel and smoothness
- Versatility
- Footprint and portability
- Overall value
REP Ares 2.0
REP Fitness Ares 2.0
Product Highlights
- Upgraded version of Ares cable attachment
- Compatible with PR-4000 and PR-5000 power racks
- Dual weight stacks with 260 lbs each
- Adds cable machine functionality to a power rack
- Built-in micro-adjustment plates
- Low row is updated to seated row height
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Comparable in price to the OG Ares
- Customizable rack options
- Compatible with PR-4000 and PR-5000
- Swiveling pulleys
- Built-in micro-adjustment plates
- Adds versatility to a power rack
Cons
- Expensive
- Likely only works with REP racks
Bottom Line
The REP Ares 2.0 is an upgrade of the original REP Fitness Ares Cable Attachment. This functional trainer integration features improvements such as a raised low row attachment point, as well as a deeper set weight stack, to allow for more space within the power rack. The Ares 2.0 comes with dual 260-pound weight stacks, with an option to make them 310 pounds.
A Quick Look at the REP Ares 2.0
REP Fitness has really been pushing the envelope on product innovation, releasing a new line of Olympic barbells in 2023, constantly innovating their adjustable benches, and now releasing new cable machines in 2024, starting with the REP Arcadia and the Adonis Cable Tower.
RELATED: REP Fitness Colorado Bar Review
The REP Fitness Ares was originally released in 2022 alongside the REP Athena, being one of the first cable attachments that integrated a functional trainer onto a squat rack. Both cable rack attachments can fit on REP PR-4000 or PR-5000 power racks, but the Athena is the lower-end version—it gives the user the option between plate-loaded weight horns or selectorized weight stacks.
RELATED: REP PR-4000 vs REP PR-5000 Power Rack
The Ares is a premium product, with dual 260-pound weight stacks that can be used one at a time or together with lat pulldowns and low rows.
While the REP Ares cable attachment was received well by consumers, it did have some faults in its design, covered in our REP Ares Cable Attachment review. The 2.0 seeks to solve those issues and also improve on the victories of the original Ares.
Some of the major changes to the Ares include:
- Swiveling pulleys on the low and high pulleys
- A raised low row to allow for seated rows (not floor rows)
- The weight stacks being set back to open up the inside of the rack more
- Cables traveling from the bottom of the upright to allow for shorter racks to utilize their full height
- Add-on weights included along the guide rods for micro-adjustments
Along with these major changes, REP uses high-quality components, like aluminum pulleys and smooth-traveling trolleys, to create a great in-use experience.
Before You Buy
- While you can purchase the Ares and REP power rack together, those with a rack already can choose to purchase just the Ares attachment, or you can get the Ares with an expansion kit (expanding a four-post rack to six posts).
- There won’t be an upgrade kit from the first version of the Ares to the 2.0, since most components have been changed up. If you’re wanting to upgrade, the best way to do it with the best value is to sell your current Ares attachment and then pre-order the new one.
- If the installation intimidates you, the Ares 2.0 has the option to book a professional assembly…for an added charge.
- Although we like the Ares 2.0 as an overall upgrade, Coop mentions that the lower-priced Ares 1.0 still has great value, now that it’s priced lower.
REP Ares 2.0 Video First Look
Is the REP Ares 2.0 Worth It?
REP succeeded in pricing the Ares 2.0 at the original price of the OG Ares, which started at $2,799 (it’s now much lower). The Ares Rack Builder allows for lots of customization, so the price varies from there based on the dimensions, add-ons, or if you add a rack.
We rate the value of the Ares 2.0 the same as the original Ares cable attachment: a 4 out of 5. With the added functionality and improvements, it still has high value, although there may be functions you may not want.
For example, the low and high pulleys are made with dual pulleys, with each using a separate weight stack. You can combine the pulleys together using a banana clip, but if you don’t have a want for unilateral training from the high and low pulleys, you may want to opt for Rogue’s FM-6, which keeps the lat pulldown and low row pulleys to a single connection.
For frame of reference, competitors have arisen in the last couple years. Force USA has their X15 Pro Multi-Trainer, which is $3,999. Rogue Fitness is also releasing their own integrated functional trainer for racks called the FM-6; this cable attachment starts at $3,150. Which trainer is best for you will largely depend on the power rack compatibility as well as the customization options.
Great for:
- People who already own a REP PR-5000 or PR-4000
- Those wanting a compact cable machine that integrates with a power rack
- Lifters who want a dual high or low pulleys for unilateral training
Not recommended for:
- Anyone interested in budget home gym equipment
- Those who don’t have a compatible power rack
- People who already have the first version REP Ares cable attachment
REP Ares 2.0 Specs
| Price | Starts at $2,799 |
| Height | 80” (82.1”) or 93” (93.9”) |
| Width | 57.6” |
| Weight capacity | 450 lbs (trolleys and cables) |
| Pulley ratio | 2:1 |
| Footprint | Adds 0.9” to 2.1” in height, up to 5.2” in width, and 0.6” in depth |
| Tolerance | 3% (weight plates) |
Using the REP Ares 2.0
GGR founder Coop Mitchell has had plenty of experience with REP Fitness products, including the original REP Ares, and now the upgrade 2.0. In his review of the REP Ares 1.0, his favorite part was the high pulley with two connection points for a lat pulldown bar. This allowed for using the dual weight stacks at once for heavy pulldowns, and was what Coop called the shining achievement of the cable system.
The low row was just a little too low in his use of the original, and the cables came at the sides of his heels, making for an odd angle that limited the range of motion during the exercise. REP Fitness has raised the low row pulleys in the Ares 2.0 and brought them in the center on swiveling pulleys. A connector banana can allow you to use both weight stacks again, making for heavy rows.
While it’s better, Coop notes that the low row is still a bit too low for a bench. “You can maybe set it up with a decline bench, but it’s still a little too low for a low row from a bench in my opinion,” he adds. “You’ll probably feel best sitting on the floor instead.”
Another critique of the original was that the weight stacks got in the way of using the interior of the rack, notably for incline press. In the Ares 2.0, the weight stacks have been rotated to run along the back of the rack, opening up plenty of space in the power rack. The footplate is now adjustable, too, and even has cut out angles to allow a bench like the REP Blackwing to fit in tightly for an incline bench.
In use, the cable travel is very smooth, and the rack stays solid, mostly planted by the heavy weight stacks, earning it a 5 out of 5 for the pulleys and stability. One of the things Coop is most excited about, though, is that the urethane D-handles that came with a lot of REP’s functional trainers before are now gone, replaced by knurled handles. The knurled lat bar and D-handles are nice; Coop rates the accessories a solid 4 out of 5.
Footprint
The Ares 2.0 won’t add much to your power rack’s footprint if you already have a PR-5000 or PR-4000. It adds 0.6 inches to your rack’s depth, an inch or two to the height, and a maximum width of 5.2 inches.
The point where the footprint may be a major issue is if you don’t have a compatible rack, or any power rack at all. Then you’ll have to account for the REP Ares and a REP Fitness PR-4000 Power Rack. A power rack will take up a bit of space in your home gym, but fortunately REP allows a lot of customization in its Ares Rack Builder. You can choose the height and depth, along with a 4-post or 6-post rack. Because of the need for a hefty power rack, we rate the footprint a 4 out of 5.
Durability and Construction
Although the original Ares was nice, the REP Ares 2.0 keeps the level of quality high, using premium cables and pulleys. The aluminum pulleys with plastic-lined trolleys along the uprights allow for very smooth cable travel. Although lightweight, the trolley and cables are rated for a weight capacity of 450 pounds, ensuring the machine will withstand repeated use.
Coop rates the durability and construction a 4.5 out of 5. “The plastic lining on the trolley and pins helps prevent scratching on the uprights,” Coop adds. “On the original, the posts began to wear down. You won’t see that with the 2.0 though.”
The cables work on a 2:1 ratio, which makes 100 pounds feel like 50 pounds. This also helps extend the cable length for functional exercises, allowing for plenty of room and length for chest flyes and similar functional trainer movements.
Versatility
With dual 260-pound weight stacks and dual swiveling pulleys on the high and low pulleys, the Ares 2.0 gets top marks in versatility, earning a 5 out of 5. The biggest change was bring the low row pulleys closer together to the center. “The 1.0 had wide low pulleys, and the connector was a long, straight bar,” Coop mentions. “It was a little awkward. The Ares 2.0 feels much better, although the pulleys could still be a bit higher.”
The 2:1 cable ratio will allow for plenty of length for functional trainer exercises as well. Plus, the moved weight stacks help keep your power rack’s versatility and functionality as a power rack intact, too.
REP Ares 2.0 vs Rogue FM-6 Functional Trainer
Rogue FM-6
Rogue Fitness FM-6 Functional Trainer
Product Highlights
- 2:1 pulley ratio on functional trainer
- 1:1 pulley ratio on lat pulldown and low row
- Integrates onto a Rogue Monster rack
- Built with 3” x 3” 11-gauge steel
- Customizable height, depth, and color
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Customizable rack height, depth, and color
- Added versatility
- Upgrade kit available for Monster Racks
- Compatible with Monster attachments
- 1:1 cable ratio on lat pulldown and low row
- Made in USA
- Option for plate-loaded or weight stacks
Cons
- Expensive
- Only compatible with Monster Racks
Bottom Line
The Rogue Fitness FM-6 Functional Trainer is a power rack integrated with cable machine features, including a functional trainer, low row, and lat pulldown machines. If you already have a power rack, the FM-6 cable system is compatible with and can be added to Rogue Monster racks. The functional trainer cables have a 2:1 ratio, while the lat pulldown machine has a 1:1 ratio, allowing for maximal loads on the exercise.
The FM-6 Functional Trainer is similar to the REP Ares because it incorporates functional trainer functionality onto a power rack—in this case a Rogue Monster Rack. The FM-6, which launches May 1st, has the optionality to be bought with a rack, or as an add-on attachment for a rack you already own.
The limiting factor on both of these racks is the compatibility with the rack. If you already have a Rogue or REP power rack, then the cable system you should look at is pretty much decided already.
However, if you’re looking for a cable system and functional trainer integration, both are solid options. The Rogue FM-6 uses a 1:1 pulley ratio for its lat pulldown and low row, but a 2:1 for its functional trainer trolleys. Plus, it’s American-made, which may be a determining factor for some.
While the price of the Ares 2.0 isn’t official, the cable machine is expected to start at $2,799, which is notably less than Rogue’s starting price of $3,150. Both are high-quality products, but if cost is important, then the REP Ares 2.0 might be the better choice.
| REP Ares 2.0 | Rogue FM-6 Functional Trainer | |
| Price | Starts at $2,799 | Starts at $3,150 |
| Height | 80” (82.1”) or 93” (93.9”) | 91.5″, 101.5″, or 109.5″ |
| Width | 57.6” | 53” without weight storage |
| Weight capacity | 450 lbs (trolleys and cables) | Not disclosed |
| Pulley ratio | 2:1 | 2:1 for the functional trainer, 1:1 for the lat pulldown and low row |
| Footprint | Adds 0.9” to 2.1” in height, up to 5.2” in width, and 0.6” in depth | 99.5″ x 53″ (plate-loaded), 92.6″ x 53″ (weight stack) |
| Tolerance | 3% (weight plates) | Not disclosed |
Customer Experience
Coop gave the REP Ares 2.0 decent marks for its warranty and returns, as REP has pretty solid policies. While there isn’t a warranty listed on the specific Ares 2.0, REP has a 1-year warranty on their pop-pins, pulleys, bearings, and cables. The rack itself will have a lifetime warranty. Along with this, REP allows returns on products up to 30 days after receiving your item. Make sure to save the original packaging, as you can suffer a 15% restocking fee otherwise.
REP Fitness can be contacted through phone, email, and a live chat, too (all listed on their website). In our experience, REP Fitness has responded quickly and has been very helpful, which leads us to rate the customer experience a 4.5 out of 5.
Ordering the REP Fitness Helios Squat Bar
The REP Ares 2.0 can be customized and ordered directly through the REP Fitness website, and free shipping is offered on all orders. Furthermore, professional assembly is offered for those who aren’t confident in their rack-building skills. The assembly will cost extra, however.
Financing is available through Affirm for orders over $650. With this premium item, you’ll have no trouble meeting that mark.
Customer Reviews
Since the Ares 2.0 is still pretty new, there aren’t any customer reviews to speak of. However, the original Ares was received well by consumers, receiving 4.9 stars out of 321 reviews. Most of the common complaints about the low row pulleys and rack space seem to have been addressed in the new version, so once this product gets in consumers’ hands, we’ll see how the public opinion has changed.
Final Verdict of Our REP Ares 2.0 Review
The Ares 2.0 has been a hotly anticipated item. While it seems a bit soon to be innovating a well-received product already, I can appreciate how REP Fitness constantly pushes the envelope with fitness equipment. Overall, every upgrade has hit its mark, improving on the original. Coop likes it, but reminds us of a couple things to consider:
- Starting at $2,799, it’s not a budget piece. If you’re not looking for the two high and low pulleys, Coop suggests a single high-and-low-pulley system, like the REP Athena.
- The quality of the materials and the improvements on the original lead us to think REP won’t feel the need to update the Ares 2.0 for awhile.
- We’d like to have seen the low pulleys raised up just a bit more for use on a weight bench.
Full Rating
REP Ares 2.0
REP Fitness made a lot of upgrades to their cable attachment system; see if these updates are worth a look in this REP Ares 2.0 review.
Product Brand: REP Fitness
Product Currency: USD
Product Price: 2799
Product In-Stock: InStock
4.5
REP Ares 2.0: FAQs
Is the REP Ares Cable Attachment worth it?
The REP Ares Cable Attachment adds functionality and versatility to a power rack, adding a lat pulldown and low row attachment, as well as using the front uprights as trolleys to double as a functional trainer. The greatest part is that the footprint added to your rack is minimal, saving you a lot of space in your home gym, instead of needing dedicated space for both a power rack and cable machine.
What are the improvements in the REP Ares 2.0 cable attachment compared to the previous version?
Here are some of the major changes to the Ares:
-Pulleys for the low row and lat pulldown are now swiveling pulleys.
-The low row pulleys have been redesigned for seated cable rows.
-The weight stacks are set back to save more space inside the power rack.
-The cables travel along the bottom of the rack, allowing for full use of the uprights on the shorter 80-inch rack.
-Add-on weights are included along the guide rods for micro-adjustments.
How do I choose a cable machine?
The best cable machine for you will depend on your budget, your home gym’s footprint, and the weight capacity you need. Here are our top recommendations for the best cable machines:
-Best Overall Cable Machine: REP Fitness FT-5000
-Best Cable Machine for Small Home Gyms: Titan Fitness Functional Trainer
-Best Smart Cable Machine: Tonal
-Best Portable Cable Machine: MAXPRO SmartConnect Cable Machine
-Most Versatile Cable Machine: Beyond Power Voltra I
-Best Cable Machine Power Rack Attachment: Bells of Steel Cable Crossover Rack Attachment
-Best Functional Trainer Cable Machine: NordicTrack Fusion CST
-Best Home Cable Crossover Machine: REP Fitness Ares
Further reading
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In this REP Adonis review, we’re taking a first look at the versatility and weight capacity of this single cable tower machine. Read more
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