Universal Remote Control’s MasterControl RF10 is a very affordable alternative to Logitech Harmony remote controls. The RF10 brings fairly deep set of features and convenience to the remote control that cost around $60 at most retailers.

Features

The URC’s RF10 is capable of “learning” from your existing remote control if you cannot program certain devices. Also, it takes the hassle out of programming with the preprogrammed codes that will virtually guarantee to have all the codes for any of the devices you own. As with most programmable remote controls, the RF10 is fully capable of macro functions. The URC offers a feature called SimpleSound which controls the overall volume of your home theater without having to individually controlling each device. Another nice feature is ability the ability to control devices through RF instead of infrared. You will need to purchase optional RF receiving station for RF operation.

Design

Unlike some of the other universal remote controls, the URC RF10 does not have sizeable LCD screen. Instead, it has small display area that displays general information. The device selection buttons are right beneath the small display area. The channel, volume, directional, and playback function buttons are placed in the middle of the remote control. The bottom of the remote control is dominated by the numerical buttons and few other functional buttons. A bigger and more functional LCD screen would have been nice. Otherwise, the layout of the remote is very practical.

Ease of programming

The remote control comes with an instructional DVD for step by step programming of the remote. Most of the devices have the codes preprogrammed into the remote. There is no need to connect the remote to PC or install any other program. Instead, you program the remote with devices or macros you wish to run. Also, the remote can learn from other remote control on the functions and usage depending on the devices. You can assign constant function to channel and volume button so you won’t need to cycle through devices to control channel or volume.

Ease of use

The programming is the hardest part of operating this remote. Once you have successfully programmed the remote, operating it is fairly straight forward. The audio switch option is a very nice addition. You can switch between different audio encoding with push of button. The macros worked as intended and operated the devices in correct order and without any hitch.

Overall

The backlit buttons are very nice addition and pretty important one in my opinion. The lack of rechargeable system was an inconvenience but not a deal breaker. Overall, it is a very solid remote control at a reasonable price.

Pros

• Easy programming
• Good layout
• Backlit buttons
• Price

Cons

• No rechargeable system
• Lack of sizeable LCD

	URC MasterControl RF10 Universal Learning Remote w/ RF Capability List Price: $79.99 Sale Price: Too low to display Used From: $32.02

If you are having hard time finding the Harmony 520, it is because Logitech discontinued it in favor of the Harmony 510. While the model name suggests 510 as the predecessor to 520, it is in fact the direct successor to the 520. Logitech has odd habit of naming their models in not so linear way. The Harmony 520was inexpensive upgrade to the remote controls included with the television or disc player sets. Priced around $50, it was a fairly popular item bought with the new entertainment devices. The Harmony 510 hopes to continue the trend for the entry level market.

Features

Like Harmony 520, the Harmony 510 features the computer based programming. All of the Harmony remote controls utilize this method of programming. You can program the remote in activity or device based controls. Basically, the remote will macro various devices if you choose to program the remote on activity based setting. For example, “watch TV” will most likely control cable box, television, and receiver if you have those devices. Like the 520 model, the 510 does manage to include a small LCD screen. While that is a nice carry over from the 520 model, the 510 can only control up to 5 devices instead 12. This is severe drawback for those in need of remote control that can control more than 5 devices.

Design

The layout of the remote is almost identical to the 520 model. The LCD is located at the top of the remote with 2 programmable buttons flanking the LCD on each side. The playback function buttons are right beneath the LCD screen. The directional buttons and few sound functions are located in the middle of the remote with numeric buttons bringing up the bottom. Four additional color coded function buttons are added from the 520 model. The more advanced models make good use of ergonomic design whereas 510 is just a carryover from the straight forward 520 design.

Ease of programming

The Harmony 510 is programmed the same way as any other Harmony remote controls. This is one of the real strength of buying Harmony remote controls. You connect the remote control to PC or Mac with the included USB cable. You install the program and follow the Logitech’s web based programming to complete the programming process. The website has built in database that includes almost all of the devices you might have for the remote. This makes it convenient as you don’t have to track down and manually enter codes for every device you own. As stated earlier, you can program the remote based on activity. You enter what you want to do and the remote automatically macros the devices to make that activity work. As with other models, your remote can “learn” from existing remote controls if you can’t control certain devices.

Ease of use

The remote is easy to operate and program. Once you have programmed your activity, you can press a button and operate the various devices. The layout of the remote is fairly easy to acclimate with few days of usage. If you have used other Harmony remotes, you will have no problem with the programming or using activity based function.

Overall

The 510 is nothing remarkable compared to the 520 model. It is simply a carryover model that adds few function buttons while removing the number of devices it can control. While it is a very competent remote control, the reduction from 12 devices to 5 devices seems to be unnecessary. Logitech might be asking the consumers to step up to higher model if they own more than 5 devices. This is a big drawback from a relatively good remote control from Logitech.

Pros

• Price
• Easy to use

Cons

• No rechargeable battery system
• 5 device limit

	Logitech Harmony 510 Advanced Universal Remote Control List Price: $99.99 Sale Price: $124.99 Used From: $90.00

	Logitech Harmony 510 Advanced Universal Remote Control List Price: $99.99 Sale Price: $124.99 Used From: $90.00

Logitech harmony 1100 is the most advanced and also the most expensive Harmony remote control on the market. At around $400, the remote control is a device in itself and is primarily aimed at the most advanced users. Its predecessor, Harmony 1000, was the first tablet style remote control with touch screen from the Logitech. The Logitech’s aim was to bring professional grade remote control to the home theater enthusiasts that wanted all the features without having to get an advanced degree. The Harmony 1100 is a direct upgrade to the Harmony 1000.

Features

The Harmony 1100 boasts a 3.5 inch color touch screen all in a manageable size that is neither too big nor too small. Like the other Logitech Harmony remotes, it can control up to 15 devices via infrared or RF with optional RF receivers. The Logitech Harmony remotes are very popular due to its simple programming feature. The Harmony 1100 utilizes the same easy way to program the remote control. The Harmony 1100 highly customizable in the way you operate the devices and the overall display. The Harmony 1100 comes with rechargeable battery with fairly decent battery life via docking station. The Harmony 1100 has motion sensor that will power up the remote when you pick up the remote control.

Design

The Harmony 1100 retains the overall tablet shape from the Harmony 1000 model. The LCD screen dominates the left side of the remote control. There are plastic touch guides next to the LCD screen for positioning purposes. These guides are meant to coordinate your touches on LCD screen for easier operation. The right side of the remote contains the volume, channel, audio buttons, and the directional buttons. The channel and volume buttons have changed their positions from the Harmony 1000 model. The overall color changes from solid silver to solid black in Harmony 1100.

Ease of programming

As with all Harmony remote controls, the Harmony 1100 is programmed by connecting the remote control to your PC or MAC via USB cable. The installation of the included software is very easy and intuitive. You can choose your installed devices from the database provided by the Logitech. Afterwards, you simply go through the steps of telling the remote how your devices are connected and how they are to be used within the home theater system. And, you simply program the remote on the activity and what the activity requires in terms of device function. It is very easy to program and very user friendly. There are no codes to input or further programming as the program will upload all the commands and macros to your remote control.

Ease of Use

The Harmony 1100 is very easy to use. Unlike other tablet remote controls like Pronto, most non professional users should have no problem operating the remote control. The few solid buttons on the remote are very useful as most of the time you will only use channel and volume buttons. The operation via touch screen is seamless. The Harmony 1000 had some sluggish performance issues with its operating system. The harmony 1100 is more responsive and faster when it comes to touch screen operation. The functions and operation from touch screen is very easy to use and the plastic touch guides are nice touch.

Overall

This is a nice upgrade from the Harmony 1000 model for people looking for a tablet remote control that is easy to use. The cost might be prohibitive for most users but for those that are looking for the very best remote money can buy; this is the one remote control you should consider.

Pros

• Nice LCD screen
• Easy to use
• Easy to program
• Rechargeable battery

Cons

• Price

	Logitech Harmony 1100 Universal Remote with Color Touch Screen List Price: $399.99 Sale Price: $234.00 Used From: $159.95

	Logitech Harmony 1100 Universal Remote with Color Touch Screen List Price: $399.99 Sale Price: $234.00 Used From: $159.95

Logitech is a leader in the consumer electronics market with its line of computer accessories and media equipment. Perhaps one of Logitech’s greatest achievements is the line of Harmony Universal Remotes. Able to control over 100,000 devices and select by activity, rather than component, the Harmony series is the first line of remote controls to truly simplify the home theater experience.

New Looks, New Remote

The 880 boasts a color LCD screen for easy navigation. Users are able to assign up to eight controls or activity profiles and change the background. In addition, the battery charge is clearly displayed in the upper right corner. Just below the screen is a large navigational disc surrounded by a nicely designed button array, and at the very bottom of the unit is a standard keypad interface.
For charging, the remote comes with a sleek dock that stands out even in the most cluttered of media rooms.

Rough ‘n Tough

The 880 is a reliable device, although we did notice a few mistakes once in a while. Due to the one touch design, the remote uses multistep commands on several devices, all precisely timed. If the IR signals from the remote are unable to reach any one of the components in the sequence, then the command fails. This unit also has a fast startup time, and does so via an automatic motion sensor triggered when the remote is picked up.

Simple (Yes, Really)

For starters, we found the remote was a big upgrade from last time in terms of usability. While the display remained largely the same, the buttons were upgraded from a hard plastic that wore down over time to soft rubber alternatives. In addition, the buttons are spaced close together for easy access. Along with spacing, corresponding buttons such as volume up and down were raised to simplify feel-based operation.

The Little Remote that Could

Every charge of the 880 Advanced Universal Remote Control can sustain the device for approximately one week under standard use. In addition, the remote is designed to always rest in the dock so forgetting to charge the unit shouldn’t be an issue.

Features: The Never-ending Goodie Basket

The premier feature of the 880 is known as “Smart State Technology.” This system allows users to control every aspect of an entertainment system and is able to track up to 15 devices simultaneously.

The remote is molded with a comfort grip shape that enables easy reach of all the buttons on the device. If lost, the built-in help button will direct you to the function, control, or component you desire.

The remote setup is a breeze as well. The software works on both PC and Mac, and to start, just insert the CD and install the remote suite software. Next, plug in the remote to the computer via the included USB cable. Upon connecting, the remote wizard will start and provide the remote with the proper device codes. With a database of 175,000 components, from Laserdisc to Blu-Ray, virtually every device is compatible. Because of this incredible compatibility, manual learning is rarely used (the process of transferring codes from the original remote).

Outstanding Performance

• Smart State Technology that enables up to 15 devices to be tracked simultaneously
• Comfort grip molding
• Automatic motion-sensing power switch
• Bright color screen for easy navigation
• Help function to instantly troubleshoot problems
• One week charge time

Slight Disadvantages

• Precise, multistep activity commands can encounter errors
• Icons can be fuzzy and hard to identify at times

Order Now and save 30% or more!

	Logitech Harmony One 880 890 720 Remote Battery List Price: $29.99 Sale Price: $9.99 Used From: $3.95

Universal Remote Control brings a very capable sub $100 remote control in the form of URC-R50. While RF20 was a very capable remote control with RF capability, it lacked simplicity provided by the ever popular Harmony remote controls from Logitech. URC-R50 is aimed at rectifying that weakness.

Features

The URC-R50 features on screen set up wizard as opposed to PC based programming. The URC-R50 can control up to 18 different devices, up from 10 devices from RF20. Also, the larger LCD is upgraded from monochrome to full color. The LCD is flanked by increased number of corresponding hard buttons. It retains the backlit buttons as well multi device macroing capability.

Design

The URC-R50 retains nothing from the RF20 model. It is a total redesign. The larger color LCD is flanked by 8 buttons. The playback function buttons are right beneath the LCD. The volume and channel buttons are separated from other areas via distinct line etched in the remote. The middle and the bottom are dominated by directional button and numerical buttons respectively. The overall shape of URC-R50 is similar to the RF20’s rectangular shape. The button layout made it easy to operate the remote without having too much problem remembering their locations.

Ease of programming

The URC-R50 takes departure from other remote control in the way it is programmed. Unlike Logitech’s system, URC-R50’s programming is done entirely on the remote. This eliminates the need to connect and disconnect the remote between programming to see if it is working. On the other hand, Logitech’s method of programming is still easier and more straight forward. The step by step wizard on the URC-R50 is not as easy as the Logitech’s programming. One thing you notice immediately upon unpackaging is the lack of user manual. URC must really like their set up wizard to forgo any kind of documentation. And, for most part, it was not too difficult to program the remote. It is very easy to punch in your device’s model and have it remember. It’s the macroing that gets little tricky. You will likely need to spend a good day if you plan to use the macro function.

Ease of use

Using the remote control is fairly straight forward. The ability assign constant function to channel and volume key is pretty useful. You won’t have to cycle through different devices to lower the volume or switch the channel. If you programmed any macros, they work as they should. I did encounter some problem using the macro function. For some reason, the macro worked few times before completely going crazy on me. I had to redo the macro and it has worked fine since. The lack of rechargeable battery system was bit off putting as I’ve gotten used to high end remotes coming with recharging docks.
Besides some screwy macroing and lack of battery recharging, the remote was solid performer. For sub $100 category, only the Harmony remote is comparable in the overall function and ease of use. The inclusion of RF might have pushed this model ahead of Harmony remote controls.

Pros

• Self sufficient programming
• Good button layouts
• Easy to use
• Price
• Nice LCD

Cons

• No rechargeable system
• Some problem with macroing
• No RF
• No documentation

Purchase URC-R50 Now and Save 40% or more!!!

	URC R50 Digital Universal Remote Control for up to 18 Components List Price: $129.99 Sale Price: Too low to display Used From: $55.00

Philips TSU9400 Pronto is perhaps one of the most expensive universal remote on the market. Pricing in at over $500.00 at most retailers, the Pronto is not for average users. It’s aimed at professional installers or hardcore home theater enthusiasts. The Pronto offers limitless customization and options. This makes it appealing to more advanced users but not so for novice users.

Features

The Pronto boasts 3.5 inch QVGA color touch screen and is somewhere between tablet and conventional remote control. The remote control can control both RS232 or IP devices as well as IR. It also comes with built in wireless capability, 802.11g. This is helpful if you have HTPC set up as you can control HTPC via this remote without any additional equipment. You can access files on your computer via the touch screen. The remote control is essentially a mini computer disguised as remote control.

Design

This not your every day remote control. The remote control itself has large LCD screen and very few buttons. The directional pad, volume, and channel buttons are few that are present on the unit. The primary method of operation is via touch screen. The focal point of the remote is the touch screen control and not the button control.

Ease of programming

The programming is lot more complicated than the Logitech’s programming. You connect the remote control to the PC via USB. You can set and download configuration with the included software called ProntoEdit. Philips provides various templates you can modify. You assign graphic buttons to do various functions. You can assign various macro functions to run several devices at once. In that sense, the programming is similar to activity based programming of Logitech's remote. The learning curve is a lot steeper for using ProntoEdit as it requires more understanding. If you can’t find the code, the remote can learn all the functions from existing remotes. Novice users can learn to use it but setting up can get difficult.

Ease of use

Out of the box, the remote is glorified paper weight. You cannot start using it without configuring it first on your PC. Once you program it, it takes good few days to get around all the menus and options to properly use this remote. You can purchase optional RF extender if you need the remote to reach hidden or stowed away devices. With the large LCD display, the battery tends to drain pretty fast. You will need to recharge it every night if you intend to use it more than few hours at a time.
As I’ve said before, this remote is not for everyone. The programming might get too complicated for novice users. Also, the actual usage takes some time getting used to. If you are tech savvy, you will really appreciate all the options and flexibility of this remote. Average users will most likely want to stick with Harmony as it is lot easier to program and use.

Pros

• Large LCD
• Flexibility
• Plethora of options
• Rechargeable system

Cons

• Battery life
• Complicated
• Expensive

Buy Now and Save 35% or more!

	Philips TSU9400 Pronto Universal Remote Control List Price: $909.99 Sale Price: $1,999.99 Used From: $850.00

]]> http://remotejunkies.com/philips-tsu9400-pronto-remote-control-review-168/feed 9 http://remotejunkies.com/logitech-harmony-1000-remote-control-review-164 http://remotejunkies.com/logitech-harmony-1000-remote-control-review-164#comments Wed, 06 May 2009 16:46:15 +0000 admin http://remotejunkies.com/?p=164





A leader in the home entertainment industry, Logitech continues to push the boundaries with the Harmony 1000 Advanced Universal Remote. The Harmony 1000 Universal Remote is able to control over 100,000 devices from a large touch screen.

Not an Ordinary Remote

The 1000 Advanced features a 3.5-inch color touch screen for activity-base control. Unlike a standard remote, pressing an activity button automatically activates all of the required components in the correct order and adjusts the settings accordingly. Even better, no macro programming is required. To the left of the screen is a navigational wheel and volume/channel buttons. The power button is recessed in the upper-left corner.
As for the enclosure, the screen is surrounded with a glossy black border, while the rest of the unit is wrapped in a matte metal cover.

Tough Enough?

Due to the relatively large size of the remote, we found that it could take a few hits. What makes this remote even more reliable is the dual use of radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) technology. This means that the remote is able to broadcast through walls and furniture. This not only makes for a simpler experience, but the constant connection ensures that the complex steps involved in an activity command aren’t disrupted.

It Really is That Easy

We found that the use of large, colorful icons makes the Harmony 1000 Advanced a great remote for the technologically-impaired. The touch screen was very responsive and rarely missed a beat. The buttons are hard and ensure a consistent response, whereas rubber buttons can suffer from the occasional missed input.

Battery Life: I Think I Can, I Think I Can…

The Harmony 1000 Advanced uses a durable lithium-ion battery for extended use. The remote comes with an easy-to-use dock that ensures the remote will always be fully charged and easy to locate in a crowded media room.

Overflowing with Features

The Harmony 1000 Advanced includes patented Logitech Smart State technology that is able to track the operation of 15 devices simultaneously for maximum performance and precise control.

Can’t run a DVD or play a CD? No sound? Dim picture? The 1000 Advanced is able to troubleshoot problems directly on the remote, simply by pressing the “Help” button.
In many cases, the most difficult aspect of a universal remote is the programming. In a standard remote, additional devices are added by the use of three-digit codes or the signals are learned manually. In the 1000 Advanced, the process begins by installing the software on your PC or Mac. After connecting the remote to the computer, the management suite will start and automatically update the code database. Once the database has been updated, the program asks a series of questions and proceeds to upload all of the required configuration files. Nearly every piece of equipment is supported, with over 4,500 brands and over 150,000 individual components.

Outstanding Advantages

• Big 3.5-inch screen
• Use of bold colors and large icons
• Activity-based control
• “Help” button for easy, instant troubleshooting
• Prominent, well-designed dock ensures a constant charge
• Smart State feature allows simultaneous tracking of 15 components
• Large database of 150,000+ components
• Automatic update upon computer connect
• RF technology ensures connection through walls and a 100 foot range

Small Drawbacks

• Setup wizard can encounter the occasional hiccup
• Glossy black border attracts fingerprints
• Screen can smudge easily

Click here to purchase Harmony 1000 remote control and save money!

	Logitech Harmony 1000 Advanced Universal Remote (Silver) List Price: $499.99 Sale Price: $214.99 Used From: $94.99

]]> http://remotejunkies.com/logitech-harmony-1000-remote-control-review-164/feed 31 http://remotejunkies.com/logitech-harmony-670-remote-control-review-161 http://remotejunkies.com/logitech-harmony-670-remote-control-review-161#comments Mon, 04 May 2009 16:08:12 +0000 admin http://remotejunkies.com/?p=161




The Logitech Harmony 670 makes departure in terms of design from the previous 500 series models. However, the basic programming and function remain similar to its predecessor. There are some subtle differences that might warrant an upgrade for consumers with older Harmony remote controls.

Features

As far as features go, the 670 is similar to that of 500 series models. The easy programming and operating remains the same. The 670 adds bit more in the way of DVR functionality for the ever popular TiVo and other DVR users. The 670 does come with little bigger LCD screen and 6 hard buttons to go along with the LCD compared to 4 on the previous models. Also, the backlit keys are nice for usage in the dark environment. The easy way to program in activity control and device control mode remains constant from the previous models.

Design

Harmony 670 forgoes the slick rectangular look from the previous 520 and 550 models. Instead, 670 went with peanut shaped clicker, thin in the middle and fat on the ends. While it might not look as slick or sophisticated as the earlier models, it actually manages to feel more comfortable in the hand. Also, Logitech managed to cram in more buttons than the previous models. While more buttons doesn’t always translate to better remote, it does in this instance. The button layout is somewhat more cluttered than the 550 due to the addition of buttons. The top and bottom part are identical to the 550. Top is dominated by the LCD with playback function buttons right below it. The bottom part of the remote houses the numeric buttons as well as channel and volume button. The middle section contains the directional button and DVR specific buttons. This is where it differentiates itself from the 550. Logitech added DVR specific buttons clustered around the directional pad.

Ease of Programming

Like the previous models, programming Harmony 670 is fairly simple. The same programming procedure remains for this model. You hook the remote to PC or Mac via USB cable. From there, you install the program and connect to the web interface and follow the step by step direction. You will need to enter the manufacturer and model and select how the device will be used in the home theater set up. As always, you can program to operate the devices based on activity. The remote will basically work with all the devices in your home theater to get that activity done. For example, programming “watch TV” will turn on the television, cable box, receiver, or any other devices that are required for you to watch television. This type of macroing will make it much easier to operate all your home theater devices. On the other hand, you can choose to operate the devices individually if you choose.

Ease of use

Once you finish programming the remote, the remote is really easy to use. You will need to acclimate yourself to the button locations. The buttons themselves are made of hard plastic and easy to locate throughout the remote. It should not take you too long to familiarize yourself with the remote. The backlit buttons are nice touch. The addition of DVR specific functions are nice touch if you TiVo frequently. Also, Logitech added sound and picture control to instantly modify sound system as well as video settings on your television. This is an improvement over the previous model that should appeal to owners who constantly tweak their television. The color coded activity buttons are also a nice touch.

Overall, this is not a revolutionary step forward over the 550 model. But, it does add various nice touches that might appeal to DVR owners as well as home theater enthusiast. The addition of DVR buttons and backlit buttons are useful addition. If you do have more complicated set up that include DVR, this is very nice remote to consider.

Pros

• Ease of programming
• Backlit buttons
• DVR buttons

Cons

• No rechargeable system
• Peanut shaped design


Buy Harmony 670 and Save $$$

	Logitech Harmony 670 Universal Remote List Price: $149.99 Sale Price: $157.99 Used From: $44.95

]]> http://remotejunkies.com/logitech-harmony-670-remote-control-review-161/feed 26 http://remotejunkies.com/logitech-harmony-550-remote-control-review-158 http://remotejunkies.com/logitech-harmony-550-remote-control-review-158#comments Wed, 29 Apr 2009 16:48:28 +0000 admin http://remotejunkies.com/?p=158




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


Order Now and Save 40% or More!

	Logitech Harmony One Universal Remote with Color Touchscreen List Price: $249.99 Sale Price: $149.99

]]> http://remotejunkies.com/logitech-harmony-550-remote-control-review-158/feed 25 http://remotejunkies.com/logitech-harmony-one-remote-control-review-146 http://remotejunkies.com/logitech-harmony-one-remote-control-review-146#comments Mon, 27 Apr 2009 16:46:23 +0000 admin http://remotejunkies.com/?p=146





Logitech’s Harmony remote control has been incredibly popular in all segments. With Harmony One, Logitech breaks the naming convention for their remote control models. Harmony One follows 720, 890, and 1000 models. Perhaps Logitech knew what they had with this effort when they simply named it Harmony One. This is a feature rich remote that improves on previous efforts.

Design

The Harmony One is both ergonomically and aesthetically spot on. Unlike some bulky remote controls that don’t quite feel right, Harmony One is remarkably comfortable to hold and operate. Also, the backlit hard buttons are lot easier to locate than the previous effort. The remote docks more securely to the docking station than the previous version. The best improvement over the previous model is the touch screen LCD. The LCD improves on previous version with touch screen function as well as better display quality. There are two touch sensitive buttons right below to for easy operation of between different submenus. You can easily flip forward and back with these buttons for easy navigation. With the new touch screen, Logitech has reduced the actual number of hard buttons on the remote. It takes very little time to get adjusted to this remote for “no look” operation.

Ease of programming

Unlike most universal remote controls, Harmony does not require you to input codes for every single component. Instead, if you have used any Harmony remotes, you are ready to set up this unit without any problem. Like the other Harmony remotes, you need to connect the unit via USB to internet connected computer for easy programming. Once you install the software, the step by step instruction guides you through the actual programming through Logitech’s website. The process is remarkably simple as you just answer which components you own and how it is connected and how it functions within your home theater set up. If you happen to own a unit that is not listed, the remote can “learn” the code by interacting with your existing remote control for the unit. One drawback of this set up is that if you have more than one Harmony remote, you have to create a separate account for each remote control.

Ease of Use

Once the remote is programmed, it is very easy to operate. It can operate up to 15 units with IR frequency. The unit’s hard button can be programmed to operate certain units. For example, channel button can be programmed to only operate cable box and volume button set to television. This makes it very easy to operate your entire home theater set up. The remote control itself is very easy to use with distinct hard buttons. The backlit hard buttons are very easy to recognize via touch. The battery life is rated at 6-7 days on full charge. Most of the users will want to place it in the charge dock after the use. Also, the remote automatically powers down when not in use and powers up with simple motion. This is very helpful when it comes to saving battery life. The battery is replaceable which is nice since most users will want to replace it after some period.

Overall, this is a step up from the Harmony 880 and 890. The touch screen itself is worth the upgrade if you are in the market for high end universal remote control. The only problem might be the lack of RF support for the remote. This can be rectified by adding an IR/RF receiver for the unit that lacks the IR support. With any universal remote, you are bound to run into some problems programming or operating the unit. And, when you encounter any problem, there is automatic self help that can help you step by step. Logitech also provides solid live customer service for their remote controls.

Pros

• Design
• Easy programming and operating
• Motion sensor activation
• Good customer support


Cons

• Lack of RF support
• Can’t program multiple remotes on one account


Buy Harmony One Remote Control and save $$$

	Logitech Harmony One Universal Remote with Color Touchscreen List Price: $249.99 Sale Price: $149.99

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