maybe so, but I'd say you get there a bit quicker using free weights which makes this thread still relevant.
Since Oliva himself said that machines win when it comes to development. If someone who was an olympic lifter can say that, who cares about recycled theories here as to free weight ominpotence, clearly machines are at least comparable. IMO better in many cases, and getting better as designs improve-it's like computer vs. man in chess, the tide is turning.
I laugh at anyone who claims weights are alwaysbetter. The stabilizer argument is mainly a marketing thing, there's no proof it makes a difference for development plus there are counter-arguments the other way, in favor of machines that free weight proponents never mention.
-Standing/seated calf raises - who the %%$# cares if it's a machine with no stabilizers..lol
-Hack squat - who the %%$ cares if there are no stabilizers in the better machine version.
-Pullover - no one cares about stabilizers, machine wins.
-Various Hammer machines-the muscles are fried in ways i never got with free weights.
The only reason this doesn't extend to every exercise is machine design, future designs will get better.
Cables only for refining, finishing etc. that's just a myth that some continue to buy due to close-mindedness.