remote

[ParadigmDawg]

Ok now that I am about done with my set-up, I have a thousand remotes. Will one of the Harmony remotes effectively get rid of all these remotes and I can truly put the others in the drawer. Which one would you choose? I need the most cost effective that will also work the DVR.

 

[MDS]

Yes, a remote like the Harmony should be able to control every component you have but you might want to look at alternatives like Home Theater Master as well: http://www.universalremote.com

 

[Kai]

The Harmony remotes all use the same software and are basically easy to set up and use. You can use either the software that comes with it or the online system which I prefer.
I have the 659 remote and after nearly 3 years of constant use it still works great. It's one button use is very nice and you can still control all the settings of each component via choosing a specific device button to activate the control of each device. The 659 works great with my dvr but the button layout is not the best...many of the controls are at the base of the remote. The new 670 is basically the same as the 659 but with a much better layout and seems more comfortable to use and is touted as designed for dvr use.
Mine controls all my devices and one of the best features is the ability to place your most needed device controls on the 6 button screen...screen is basic and nothing to brag about...and you can access all device controls this way by using the "next" button to scroll through the settings.

The 880 is also highly regarded but is more costly. It is better looking and has a nice lcd screen but works no better or differently.
The 550 is a less costly control and works the same but without the bells and whistles.
I suggest going to their site, register and take the remotes for a test drive. It is cool.
Let us know how you make out.

PS: How do you like your in ceiling speakers? How does surround sound, etc.? Why did you go that route?
Thanks

 

[Tom Andry]

should be able to control every component you have

This is true of all IR controled components. A universal remote cannot control another RF controled component (like DishNetwork's DVRs).

 

[Seth=L]

I just noticed you have the Yamaha RX-V659 and the Harmany 659, that is awesome, it all comes together.

 

[MDS]

This is true of all IR controled components. A universal remote cannot control another RF controled component (like DishNetwork's DVRs).

So true. I assumed that all components use IR because that is the normal case. My HTM MX-350 controls every single function of every component I own. I'm sure the Harmonies can do the same but I personally don't like the layout.

 

[Tom Andry]

Actually, that isn't something I've run in to either but when I was working with Universal Remote on the TX-1000 review, the guy mentioned it. Has to do with it being illegal to use someone else's RF frequency.

 

[darien87]

I have no trouble recommending the Harmony 880. Although it wasn't the easiest remote to set up, (it took me a couple of days to get everything working right), once I got it working, I loved it. It's running my TV, Cable Box, DVD players and Receiver.