Logitech Announces New Harmony 520 Remote for $99

[Clint DeBoer]

audioholics.com/news/uploads/Harmony520remote.jpg">Logitech today announced it will soon bring the simplicity and convenience of its Harmony universal remote controls to a significantly broader base of consumers. The company unveiled the Logitech(R) Harmony(R) 520 remote control, the first activity-based remote priced under $100 in the U.S., featuring a simple online setup process for complete customization. The Harmony 520 remote is the first to feature Logitech's improved visual setup process. The software will soon be included as part of every Harmony remote setup. The Harmony 520 advanced universal remote will first be available later this month for a suggested retail price of $99.99.

[More Info and Pics]

[supervij]

This is great news! I've been wanting a good universal remote for a while now -- my five remotes are getting my girlfriend very confused -- and I've had my eye on the Harmony line, but the prices were a little off-putting. I can't wait to read the reviews on this puppy and hopefully pick it up soon. Wal-Mart rarely gets my business, but for this remote -- they just might.

cheers,
supervij

[Tsunamii]

I have been using the Pronto Neo for a few years now and its pretty good for the $$$, just wish it was color and had a charging base. Though this looks like it has alot less setup time.

[soundsfine]

Any idea how this compares to the earlier Harmonys (i.e. H688, 676)? In other words, what functionality was left out at this price point?

[jcPanny]

I am also interested in the new, lower priced Harmony remote. It looks like this is the first product to be totally redesigned by logitech. While there is not a direct comparision on their web site, I was able to pick out a few of the important features.

* Up to 12 devices (not 15)
* Monochrome LCD (880 and 890 are color)
* 4 activity buttons (not 3-6)
* 4 AAA batteries (not LiOn rechargable)
* Standard IR (not RF repeater type like 890)

This remote could easily be upgraded with a couple sets of rechargable AAA bateries. It might also work with the RF extender device.
Looks like a great option for a $100 universal remote.