Logitech Harmony 550 Remote Control Review
Logitech didn’t make too many changes for the Harmony 550. The Harmony 550 is not exactly an upgrade to 520. Instead, it is a replacement model to phase out the Harmony 520. There are few changes from the Harmony 520 including design and button layouts. The functionality remains almost identical
Features
The features remain almost identical to the 520 except for the number of supported devices. The 550 supports 15 devices whereas 520 was limited to 12. Other than that, 550 retains the LCD and four hard buttons that go with it. The programming and the usage of activity based control or device based control remains the same.
Design
Harmony 550 essentially keeps the overall design of the Harmony 520. It adds six more buttons than the 520 model. The locations of the buttons remain the same for the 550. The numeric buttons, directional pad and the playback buttons remain in the same locations. The LCD is flanked by 2 hard buttons on each side. The buttons themselves are made of softer rubber than the different materials used in the 520. The different button materials used on the 520 was better idea than the rubbers used in the 550. The learning curve was much shorter with different tactile buttons on the 520 compared 550.
Ease of programming
Programmings of Harmony remotes are essentially same across the product line. You connect the remote to PC or Mac via USB and run the program that connects you to online programming. Once you register your remote, web based interface takes you through the set up procedure step by step. You input manufacturer and model number and specify the usage of the device within your home theater set up. You can set up the remote based on activity such as “watching TV” or “playing DVD” these will essentially macro your remote to control various devices to achieve the activity. You can also simply program to control separate devices. It is up to you do decide and that’s the beauty of this flexible set up.
Ease of use
Once you have programmed the remote, the remote is fairly easy to operate. It does take some time familiarize yourself with the remote’s menu and its button locations. But, once you have mastered that aspect, it is as simple as pushing few buttons to operate the remote. If you programmed the remote with activity based control, you simply select the activity to control various devices. If you do run into some problem, you can get help through customer service or help function built into the unit.
The Harmony 550 is not a true upgrade from 520. If you own 520 and are happy with it, you most likely have no reason to purchase this model. It is more of refresh or update to 520. If you are in a market for a great universal remote, you might want to take long look at the 550.
Pros
- Easy programming
- LCD screen
- Price
- Good design
Cons
- No rechargeable battery
- No RF
- No color screen
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