I won't bore you all with the details of my search for a used erg, but suffice it to say, I am looking at buying a new one. Of course, that raises the question of which monitor to prioritize. I know about the additional features identified on the C2 website, so I don't need help with that. What I do need, however, is help knowing which features are useful.
For example, how important is it that I be able to upgrade the PM4? It's not like it's a PC and needs security updates all the time. And I don't play the games (although my wife may). The heart rate thing and included chest strap is nifty, but I already have hardware for heart rate monitoring using the Polar attachment. And since the erg will be at home, I don't see much use for the wireless racing feature.
Anyone have personal experience with the two and have a strong opinion about which is better?
PM3 versus PM4
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Carl Watts
- Marathon Poster
- Posts: 4724
- Joined: January 8th, 2010, 4:35 pm
- Location: NEW ZEALAND
Re: PM3 versus PM4
Going by what you have said, get a PM3.
There is no advantage to going with a PM4 if you do not use any of the additional features. The Rechargeable battery is also not needed if you use RowPro with the PM3 plugged into the USB as a decent set of D cells last 2 years.
The PM4 has more potential for upgrades and obviously if it ever got Bluetooth then it could prove very useful to some people.
There is no advantage to going with a PM4 if you do not use any of the additional features. The Rechargeable battery is also not needed if you use RowPro with the PM3 plugged into the USB as a decent set of D cells last 2 years.
The PM4 has more potential for upgrades and obviously if it ever got Bluetooth then it could prove very useful to some people.
Carl Watts.
Age:58 Weight: 104kg Height:183cm
Concept 2 Monitor Service Technician & indoor rower.
http://log.concept2.com/profile/863525/log
Age:58 Weight: 104kg Height:183cm
Concept 2 Monitor Service Technician & indoor rower.
http://log.concept2.com/profile/863525/log
Re: PM3 versus PM4
The one selling point of the PM4 for me is the integration with my Garmin watch. Primarily I run, but like to have all my fitness data in one application (run, bike, row etc). That is pretty much the only thing for me.
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Ergmeister
- 1k Poster
- Posts: 122
- Joined: February 28th, 2012, 9:59 am
- Location: Sheldonville, MA
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Re: PM3 versus PM4
The PM4, while now over 6 years old, however it is still the latest monitor model. I maintain nearly 3 dozen ergs between our boat club, gym, my own Model D w/PM4, and Club members. All but my own are PM3s. I bought my Model D w/PM4 new in 2007. Some features of the PM4 are unique, but for 90% of the work out there the PM3 is more than adequate and effective. I use the new ErgData app on my iPhone and have the bracket and data cable that attaches it to the PM3 or PM4. The discussion of bluetooth has been going on for a while, but at this point, the PM4 is mostly a nicely trimmed PM3 in practical terms in my humble opinion.
If you are in the northeast, do not overlook the KILLER deal that C2 is offering for the CRASHB ergs following the event. They are offering a new Model D (6 hours of "light" CRASHB use) with PM4 for $800 which is incredible, and the PM3 at $765. That's a brand new fully warrantied Concept2 Model D. You just have to hang around long enough on February 17th to take it home at the end of the day.
The key to either the PM3 or PM4 monitor is to be diligent about updating your firmware when notified. The current PM4 firmware update for MAC users is a critical function update for example.
If you are in the northeast, do not overlook the KILLER deal that C2 is offering for the CRASHB ergs following the event. They are offering a new Model D (6 hours of "light" CRASHB use) with PM4 for $800 which is incredible, and the PM3 at $765. That's a brand new fully warrantied Concept2 Model D. You just have to hang around long enough on February 17th to take it home at the end of the day.
The key to either the PM3 or PM4 monitor is to be diligent about updating your firmware when notified. The current PM4 firmware update for MAC users is a critical function update for example.