I love my machine, it's so smooth. I also love the head and neck pillow. There are only two things I would change: 1) somewhere to put the straps when you aren't using them so that they are easier to grab, and 2) plastic protection for the ropes so that when you row, you don't shred the ropes. Other than this, it's awesome!!
This is my second Stamina Pilates reformer. The first one was shorter, and was on the floor. It also did not offer the Cardio-Rebounder. THIS machine is a world apart, the height makes it possible to mount and dismount more easily, and greatly expands the exercises available. I love the Cardio-Rebounder! As a person that HATES exercise, I use my reformer because it is FUN! Using the rebounder gives you the same floating/flying feeling as riding a swing, but it is a real workout.
I've had this machine for about 4 months now and am very pleased with it in all respects. Putting it together took about an hour and a half and I was able to do it unassisted. One reason why I bought this particular machine is that my wife (who is 5'4" tall) and I (at 6'6''and 225 lbs) can both use it. It handles the height differences very well. We both feel that it can handle as much exercise and as many different excercises as we'd like (we're in our 70's and in reasonably good shape physically) and are very pleased with it. Customer support has been good, though we've yet to have any problems that merit new parts or factory advice. Overall, a great machine.
I've owned the five cord Aeropilates and the machine is great, but I really wanted springs and was able to purchase the 557. Holy cow!
First, I was amazed at how quickly it shipped...within a week of ordering it was on my foyer. Second, I was expecting the wood to just be kinda particle board. It's beautiful. The rails are FAR superior to the 5004, and those are smooth, but these ones are gorgeous as far as esthetics and I feel the ride is slightly smoother.
I was not looking forward to having my husband put the machine together (former Army mechanic), but it was done in less than an hour. As long as you lay everything out and follow the instructions, he said it's easy enough.
The springs DO feel different than the cords to me. Smoother if that makes sense, but also I do feel you have to use your powerhouse a LOT more with the springs as they don't seem to pull the carriage back to home as quickly as bungees. I don't necessarily feel one is superior to the other, more or less it's a preference factor.
The rebounder is essentially the same as the corded machines; however, a different feel than cords. In this area I don't feel (so far I've only had the machine a week) that one is better than the order as far as cardio effect.
The BEST features to me are the carriage padding, it is a LOT thicker and more quality looking than the 5004. The springs are enclosed. I love the rubber texture on the foot plate. I adore the fact that I have three positions for the foot bar. Absolutely LOVE this. I am 5'1" with a 27 inch inseam and some were concerned it might be too long, but not a problem for me AT ALL. The padded double loop foot and hand straps are a BONUS (way better than the Velcro with the current corded machines) and I ADORE the way the rope is adjustable with hooks under the carriage.
All in all, I loved my 5004.....but if you can afford it and don't need to worry about portability (this machine is designed to stay in one place) GET THIS MACHINE. I briefly looked at another competitor's machine that uses a rebounder and for me it wasn't warm and inviting with wood at all (all metal) so for me a win-win.