Suggestions on elliptical machine?

[Dargo]

I am really considering buying my wife a Nautilus NE 3000 elliptical machine. She tried one out yesterday and really liked the feel of the machine and it seemed to provide a superior no impact aerobic workout. I even liked it myself mostly due to their patented system that allows the part where you put your feet to pivot up and down with the natural stride of your foot when walking or running. I tried the Precor unit and it was also well made, but my heels raised off of the "pedals" on each stride since it doesn't have the system that Nautilus has.

I am also considering the Nautilus Elliptical EV718. I like the size of this model better. In contrast to most of the other higher end elliptical units, this one doesn't have the big rear section to it. For some reason all the elliptical machines just look odd to me with that rear part sticking way out the back. Here is a link to the EV718 http://nautilus.com/catalog/product...older_id=2534374302030983&bmUID=1140114950845 and here is a link to the NE 3000 http://nautilus.com/catalog/product...older_id=2534374302026791&bmUID=1140115028719

Do any of you guys own or have any experience on either of these machines? Any input would be welcomed. Thanks.

 

[Melensdad]

Dargo, we have a Nordic Track that is very similar to the NE 3000, or maybe closer to the Precor unit because the NT has flat foot treds. It is one of the few machines that we have purchased that we actually use. Not often enough, but it does get used. The NE 3000, if it works the way our NT machine works, is a very smooth unit, has a great stride, gives the impression of almost jogging but without any of the impact and provides a good aerobic workout. We've had our machine for several years and I'd have to say it is holding up very well and still providing a quality workout.

I have no experience with the Nautilus brand specifically.