On the "philosophical questions" thread, there was a question about paddling ergometers, and a couple of responses identifying some vendors.

I'd like to have a paddling ergometer, but I'd like to get some advice from people who have actually used the various machines.

I already have a Concept 2 rowing ergometer, so it may be that the best option for me is the Vermont paddling adaptor, but I don't know how closely it replicates the feel of a dragon boat or OC stroke.

Any comments from people who have used a paddling ergometer?

Thanks.

The multistroke is the best machine, I have tried them all

I have a Vermont waterways paddle adaptor for the concept 2 erg. I find it very close to an OC1 stroke , at least the way I paddle. In fact ,at first I thought the erg stroke was wrong , it needed too much back end to generate power. Then I got a GPS for my boat and found the same big back end worked in the OC1 , at least for me. The erg actually improved my stroke. It is very good for high intensity work and strength training (set resistance at 10 ,do 20 strokes/min. @ maximum power ).
The stroke is less like a marathon or DB stroke but still pretty close. Best training for paddling that is not paddling , in my opinion.
Use the machine a few times a week and it will give you a good head start in the spring.

What makes the multistroke the best?

Here are the ergometers found by a quick web search:

Multistroke Db Erg $1,650 USD

Paddleone $1,045 CDN

Vermont paddle adaptor $410 USD (requires Concept 2 erg)

Vasa ergometer $1,999 USD

KayakSport Canada $1,400 CDN

Has anyone used the Paddleone or the KayakSport Canada ergometer?

I would agree that the multistroke is the best.

Mainly because the seat is more eleveated, which in turn closely mimics the downward pressure that you would normally feel when paddling in the boat. The concept 2 & the paddleOne can't do that. (Although I have raised the back on my PaddleOne in order to try and get the same feel).

Also, the software for the multistroke is very cool...gives you a lot of info that you can download to your computer.