Cable box code for RX-V663

[mod]

I'm starting to set up an RX V663 and in reading the manual regarding the remote I see where I can set it to handle the TV, DVD, etc, but it doesn't show anything for cable boxes. How are those handled?

 

[pzaur]

They're not. The remote for the 661 could handle cable boxes.
Get a Universal Remote. You can find something suitable for relatively inexpensive.

The link isn't the only universal remote company out there. Harmony has been around a long time.

The phono jack deletion and cable box support are probably the biggest detriments to the 663.

-pat

 

[mod]

Thanks Pat. I guess I can just leave the cable box on all the time. I also have a URC R7 that I'll try. I'm waiting until I'm all set up to see what I need for a remote. I've been looking at the Harmony 890. I gave up on URC after finding out that you have to have someone program it. It's hard to understand why a remote control should cost more than a receiver. Obviously I'm the only one who has that issue because I read post after post from folks who have $500 to $900 tied up in a remote.

Mike

 

[bandphan]

It's hard to understand why a remote control should cost more than a receiver. Obviously I'm the only one who has that issue because I read post after post from folks who have $500 to $900 tied up in a remote.

Mike

Or 4 or 5k tied up in them Having a remote that cost in the $500-900 isnt uncommon for those who want complete control over thier purchases. Their are several low cost alternatives that are avialable, aside from harmony, URC also makes less costly remotes, like this one. Its all relative to ones needs.

 

[pzaur]

I think the remote issue comes down to how much of a macro-function ability do you want. There are plenty of universal remotes that will control everything without all the whistles and bells that the expensive universal remotes cost. Check out the Universal Remote link I posted earlier. They have remotes for as little as ~$25 that can probably do what you're wanting. You may have to power up or down each device and hit the device button to control it.

I think Yamaha was trying to increase sales of the 863 which has a phono input and the ability to control a cable box with the remote.

-pat

 

[mod]

I checked the link to the URC R50. That sounds like it will do all that I need it too as long as I don't need RF. My components are behind glass with line of sight and so far the IR seems to be OK. Not sure how well that will work when I hook up the DVD and old VCR too. I'm pretty basic in my needs for home theater. Watch TV, watch dvd, listen to music. It sounds like the R50 has the capability if I can figure out macros.

 

[bandphan]

what about the r50 doesnt do rf?

 

[mod]

I didn't see any mention of RF. It did mention the IR range. Maybe I didn't look hard enough. It says "programs in minutes to provide IR control.......". So it does do RF? Would that mean that I'd need an RF extender or device to add to it? As you can see, I'm still quite a bit confused about all of the remote options.

 

[bandphan]

With the optional base stations, yes. Hamony will also require an optional rf receiver.

 

[pzaur]

You will only need the RF if you want the option of being able to change stations/whatever from any direction or place in range of the RF base. Purely a convenience.
I'd do it if I had the funds. It's a nice little feature.
If every component has a line of sight, then you do not need the RF equipment.

-pat

 

[mod]

With the optional base stations, yes. Hamony will also require an optional rf receiver.

I've been checking on the R50 and still don't see that it supports RF. Even saw a posting from a new R50 owner in Remotecentral who says his doesn't support rf. You have to go with the 450 to do rf.