So I had my mind made up on buying a Powertec Smith machine - it was one recommended in a thread I started a few months ago (online they are $999 without bench or weights). Seemed like it would be relatively safe for me to use by myself and would allow me to do quite a bit. This is the one I'm thinking of buying:
Powertec Smith Machine (bench sold separately) - Dick's Sporting Goods
Today when I was shopping, a salesperson at a used equipment store said I'd be better off with a power rack. He said the smith doesn't allow for an arc and squats or bench press will then put more pressure on joints.
If I get a power rack, it seems that it doesn't allow for all the things the smith does - leg stuff especially (curls, extensions). Am I not understanding what a power rack is? And the power rack seems not as safe when lifting alone.
A pro is that the power rack is much cheaper but if I buy a power rack instead, what else will I need? Either way I would need a good bench and weights.
Thanks for any info!