Just wondering if anyone knows what the main differences are between the 659 and the 670. I know the 659 has a "Media" button, which the 670 doesn't. Is that the only difference? I watch TV using my Panasonic DVD recorder, so it's important to me that the remote I choose controls the DVD recorder well. I use the "Guide", "Time Slip", "Direct Navigator", "Schedule", and "Commercial Skip" buttons the most. Thanks in advance.

The Harmony retmotes are exactly the same programming and functionality wise. The only difference between them is the button layout. I would pick the one which has a better button layout to you. You can assign any missing "buttons" to the LCD screen.

I'm looking at either of these 2 remotes as I like the raised buttons as opposed to the flatter ones on the 880 and 890.

Anybody comment on if they own these and how they like them? I have a Pioneer 1015 amp, Motorola 6412 STB with PVR and HDTV, DVD, CD player to control. We like using our PVR a lot.

I'm looking at either of these 2 remotes as I like the raised buttons as opposed to the flatter ones on the 880 and 890.

Anybody comment on if they own these and how they like them? I have a Pioneer 1015 amp, Motorola 6412 STB with PVR and HDTV, DVD, CD player to control. We like using our PVR a lot.

I have the 670 and I really like it. I bought it mainly for the buttons and button layout. The button layout was designed to be used with DVRs/PVRs. The transport controls are located in a circle around the OK button so they are easily reached with your thumb. I don't have a PVR, but I definitely like the layout for the transport controls with my HD DVD player.

It should work with all of your equipment.

Thanks Billy. What kind of battery life do you get? I've heard from some that this can be a problem.....having to change batteries every month or 2.

I'm looking at either of these 2 remotes as I like the raised buttons as opposed to the flatter ones on the 880 and 890.

Anybody comment on if they own these and how they like them? I have a Pioneer 1015 amp, Motorola 6412 STB with PVR and HDTV, DVD, CD player to control. We like using our PVR a lot.

I have the 680 which is almost identical to the 670, just a couple different button placements. It works great for me, can do everything I need easily, and I have an equipment setup very similar to yours. I like the transport controls around the center. On the 659 they are way at the bottom of the remote which is like no man's land on these, it's the hardest part to reach (with one hand anyway, you have to adjust the grip and slide the remote forward in your hand, out of the primary grip spot) and the number keys belong down there since they are the least used keys, for me anyway. The 659 is missing several handy keys, for instance previous/next track in the transport section. You'll want to find the thread about the 6412 codes so you can do 30 second skip, assign it to the track advance key, and then the regular 15 second jump back goes on the track reverse key. Then you still have the regular ff/rewind. I actually wish the 680 had the dedicated paging buttons like the 670, that would be nice. The 659 doesn't have those either. Takes a little while to memorize all the keys but that goes for any remote. To me, a good remote can be operated without looking at it and this one fits the bill for 90% of your clicks right off the bat, and with some practice you can hit everything quickly without looking. Good luck doing that with a touchscreen remote. Not sure about the flat button harmony's but it's gotta be harder to do with those than with these ones with the rounded buttons. Gotta reach a bit for the lcd functions but other than that they do a great job of fitting everything within thumbs' reach. I'd definitely get the 670 if I was you.

What kind of battery life do you get? I've heard from some that this can be a problem.....having to change batteries every month or 2.

I think most of these style remotes suck batteries, so unless you get one with a charging stand you'll have to deal with this. It's not so bad tho, just get some rechargables. Besides, every month or 2 (closer to every month for me) isn't that often, it takes all of 2 minutes to switch the batteries.

OK, thanks. Looks like I'm in the market for the 670. :)

Thanks Billy. What kind of battery life do you get? I've heard from some that this can be a problem.....having to change batteries every month or 2.

I go through batteries in about two to three months. However, I use the heck out of the remote. Whenever there is a commercial, I have the cable guide up checking other programs. Also, since I use my AVR for all activities, I am constantly adjusting the volume ( to keep the peace with my wife). I would think you would probably get four months for normal usage.

You could get a couple of sets of rechargeable batteries, and a charger.