i strongly believe on the right mixture of free weights and some plate-load-machines like Hammer-Strength, Panatta, .....
of course it´s possible to load more plates on these machines as on the bars, because the "curve" of resistance was made so that you can push or pull heavier weights on your weakest point, what is not possible with free weights.
Also, for Athletes over 40 yrs. HS-Equipment is good, because the joints and ligaments where not damaged that much as with heavy free weights.