Hello all,

I just purchased the Harmony 880 and like some things about it and don’t like other things.

I don’t have the most complicated set up so I don’t need the most advanced universal remote out there. I just want it to be very easy to use (for the wife, babysitter, kids, etc…).

What I like about the Harmony 880:
1. I like the programming via the PC (the wizard is easy to use one you get used to it)
2. I like the color screen
3. I like the one touch “actions” (one touch changes the input on the TV and makes sure the correct devices are turned on)


The only thing I really dislike is the layout of the buttons. I was using the Home Theater Master MX-500 and the layout was much better IMO.



My current devices this remote will control:
1. Sony RPTV
2. Sony Standalone Tivo
3. Samsung HDTV DirecTV Set top box
4. HD Tivo
5. Zenith DVD Player


Are there any other universal remotes out there that has the features I like (mentioned above) in the price range of $200 or less?


Thanks in advance for any suggestions for me to check out.

2. I like the color screen
Do you have to have a color screen?

If not, have you seen the Harmony 670? Seems much more "wife friendly" to me.

Thansk you for the quick reply.

I do really like the color screen and want to go with a remote that has one.

I'm currently using the Home Theater Master MX-500 in another room and I like it, but it doesn't have the "cool" color screen. If I go with another remote without a color screen I would probably just be fine with another one of these remotes.

Do you (or anyone else) know of any decent remote with a color screen in the $200 or less price range?

Thansk again.

The 720 has a color screen. I'm just (personally) not as happy with the button positioning on that one. The 670 is tailored more for Tivo/DVR use.

I personally prefer the Harmony 550 layout (monochrome black text on blue with 4 soft activity buttons per page/screen - $80 online) and the 720 (colour layout with 6 soft activity buttons per page/screen $150 online) to the older styled peanut shaped Harmony models (and have used both the 550 and 720).

However, I think I know what you mean by the layout of the MX-500: a little less "sexy", more utilitarian, but ultimately perhaps, more functional and ergonomical.

Look at the 720 layout and read the review here:

http://reviews.digitaltrends.com/review4015.html

In my experience, despite some rave reviews, URC users tend not to be so hot on the Harmony layout. They frequently also find the Harmony models to be too "light and fragile" compared to a URC "built like a tank". You can probably pick up an MX-700 from Surf Remote at discount prices if you ask MikeSRC in this forum. Also (ignore the official prices):

http://www.surfremotecontrol.com/

I estimate that you should be able to find a new MX-850 currently for $200 or possibly less, but it is not color and I think it still has those cryptic truncated labels that remind one of Windows 3.11 (The 80s, when Macs became cool and user friendly!).

Otherwise, some recommend the X10icon which does have a color screen for $80 (a Philips model now too) and you may find the layout more to your liking (possibly closer to URC styling than Harmony remotes are).

Get ready for pop-ups galore when visiting this site ... oh ... and turn off the sound on your PC/laptop BEFORE entering or you will get your ears blasted off the planet:

http://www.x10iconremote.com/