| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Product weight | Resistance | Console |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Marcy NS-6050RE Check Discounted Price | L:86" W:20.5" H:36" | 300 lbs | 85 lbs | Air and magnetic | Speed, time, distance, count, RPM, calories |
The Turbine NS-6050RE is one of the newest rowing machines from Marcy Fitness, released at the beginning of 2016. It features a hybrid resistance system, part air, part magnetic. The air turbine offers a more “natural” rowing feel your workout, while the magnetic mechanism offers you the possibility to add resistance.
Technical Details and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 86L x 20.5W x 36H inches (218L x 52W x 91H cm)
- Product weight: 85 lbs (38.5 kg)
- Supported weight: 300 lbs (136 kg)
- Frame: Steel & aluminum
- Footrests: Adjustable, with straps
- Resistance type: Air and magnetic, 8 levels
- Fitness computer: Time, speed, calories, count, distance, RPM.
Frame construction and parts
To begin with, this Marcy rowing machine features a frame construction quite similar to various commercial rowers, such as Concept2 Model E for example. Even though it’s specified maximum user capacity is 300 lbs (136 kg), the frame is definitely sturdy enough 
to support users at least a few pounds heavier. Most of the frame components are made of steel. However, the side rails of the rower’s main beam are made of aluminum. The core of the beam is also steel.
The bases of the frame are made of steel tubing, and double coated with corrosion resistant and scratch resistant gray paint. This appears to be the only color available for this rower model, at least for the moment. As opposed to other air resistance rowers, such as the Stamina 35-1405 for example, this Marcy model features three bases for the frame. The front and rear bases are equipped with adjustable, rubberized stabilizers. The front base also features plastic covers for its stabilizers. The mid-base is smaller and integrates a set of small wheels, which can ease the transportation of the folded machine. However, when fully assembled, the rower isn’t extremely heavy. It weighs approx. 85 lbs (38.5 kg), thus a person with an average level of fitness should be able to lift it.
The frame also features a folding design. It actually consists of two main parts, the front part with the turbine, and the beam part with the rear base and seat. The beam part with the seat can fold up, and locked into position via a metallic pin. When in a folded position, the rower’s length is reduced by half. When unfolded, it actually takes quite some space, requiring at least 86″ (218 cm) lengthwise. The machine’s width is approx. 20.5″ (52 cm), but you’ll need at least 1 foot of clearance on each side, for safe operation. Also, the rail is long enough to accommodate users with an inseam of 36″ (91 cm).
The seat supplied with this rower is quite a bit wider than for other models. It’s padded and contoured, offering excellent ergonomics, and reducing a bit of the stress on the lower back.
Its base integrates 6 heavy duty rollers with sealed ball bearings, supplying a smooth and quiet glide. Also, in case you’re wondering, the top of the seat stands approx. 14″ (34 cm) above floor level. Therefore, it’s easier for users with various disabilities to assume the rowing position. A rower with the seat too close to the floor may be too difficult to mount/dismount for some users.
The footrests on the Marcy NS-6050RE magnetic rower are mounted on two steel rods, and do not pivot at the middle. Their angle is approx. 60°, thus the foot positioning should be optimal for most users. The footrests’ length is adjustable, and can accommodate sports footwear of all sizes. They integrate a heel guard for better foot support and also have adjustable nylon straps.
The pulling handle of this Marcy rower is given by a simple metallic bar, with foam padding to offer optimal grip comfort.
Resistance system
The Marcy NS-6050RE features a hybrid resistance system, part air, part magnetic. The 
turbine provides air resistance which varies up to a certain point, being proportional to the strength that you put behind each stroke. This results in a rowing “feel” close to rowing an actual boat through the water. However, the overall resistance of the machine can also be adjusted via a magnetic resistance mechanism.
The resistance adjustment is done via the small lever, placed at the middle of the frame. This resistance system offers 8 distinctive tension levels. As a general idea, the maximum resistance provided by this rower can be classified as medium. It’s not exactly the best choice for a professional rower athlete. But, for anyone who wants to follow a daily cardio training routine which focuses on multiple groups of muscles, and break a sweat, the resistance should definitely suffice.
Fintess meter
The fitness computer supplied with this Marcy rowing machine is a basic one. It features only one button which covers all its functions. It requires two AAA-type batteries (which are not included) It displays time, distance, stroke count, speed, RPM and calories burned. All 
the mentioned values are simultaneously displayed on screen.
The unit cannot track pulse, therefore if you want to monitor your heart rate, you will have to use your own device. Also, it does not have any built-in workout programs, such as the meter units supplied with commercial rowers.
One last aspect to mention here regards the noise level produced by this machine. Since it features an air resistance system and a flywheel fan which rotates during operation, it will generate whirring sound. However, the noise level is not extremely loud, definitely not loud enough to cover the sound of your TV, for example.
Assembly and Maintenance
The resistance system, including the fan and the magnetic elements come ready-assembled, and sealed by the plastic guards. However, most of the frame does require assembly. Differently put, you will have to attach the rower’s beam to the front part of the frame, add the base stabilizers, the seat, insert batteries in the console, and connect it as well to the frame. The manual provides clear assembly instructions, and the whole task shouldn’t take more than one hour.
Just as for any rower, maintenance requires keeping the gliding rails and beam free of any small objects, sand or other particles that may cause damage during the usage of the machine. In other words, it’s best to wipe them with a dry piece of cloth before each use.
The Pros
- Folding, space saving design;
- Extremely solid frame, able to support users up to 300 lbs;
- Air & magnetic resistance system, for a natural rowing feel and reduced noise;
- 8 levels of resistance;
- Adjustable footrests;
- Contoured, padded and spacious seat supplying excellent comfort;
- Fitness computer (speed, time, distance, count, RPM, calories) included;
- Fairly quiet for an air rower;
- Offers excellent workouts for back, arms, legs and core muscles;
- Easy to assemble;
- Little maintenance required.
The Cons
- Display is not backlit, thus reading may be difficult in poor lighting conditions;
- Foot rests only size-adjustable, not angle-adjustable.
Summary
The Marcy Turbine NS-6050RE is a rowing machine featuring both air and magnetic resistance. Even though it’s not a rower made for commercial use, it does have a very sturdy frame, pretty close to the construction of a gym grade machine. It’s also foldable, offering better storage possibilities. It’s an excellent machine for cardio training, building stamina, and losing weight. Its maximum resistance it lighter that for other commercial models such as the Concept2, thus it may not be the best choice for a pro athlete. However, for anyone who wants a daily aerobic training routine that involves multiple groups of muscles, it’s simply perfect. It also costs half the price of a gym grade rower.