Hi,
I want to get a MX-980 from an authorized dealer who will supply the "updateable" software (I won't buy from Best Buy as I learned the hard way with my MX-850 my hubby bought). I checked Surfremotecontrol.com (based on Mike's great posting) and he doesn't carry it and neither does B&H. Can somebody help with a recommendation?

I don't think any authorized dealers have it yet?

I did a net search but couldn't find anyone selling it. But you could try the dealer locator function at the URC website. Just punch in your state and then net search the dealer names to find their website, or call them.

http://www.universalremote.com/pro/dealer_locator.php

These guys are running a pre-order on it:

http://www.proremotes.com/product_info.php?products_id=139

Hi,
I want to get a MX-980 from an authorized dealer who will supply the "updateable" software (I won't buy from Best Buy as I learned the hard way with my MX-850 my hubby bought). I checked Surfremotecontrol.com (based on Mike's great posting) and he doesn't carry it and neither does B&H. Can somebody help with a recommendation?

Post your location.
Plenty of dealers helped build these forums, they are all around.

I am in the San Francisco Bay area but I think CZ Eddie nailed it and that URC hasn't shipped them yet... Anybody selling them ????

I want a remote with hard buttons and extensive flexibility in programming (so no harmony) and I was leaning toward the 950 but the color screen of the 980 had me swayed as I thought it would be easier on the eyes than the text UI of the 950 (similar to my 850). So the $64k question - should I wait? Or more importantly, is it worth the wait since I don't care for touch screen?

Wait for the 980. It looks to be the type of product people expected from URC.

It has not shipped in volume to resellers yet. Based on past history, Mike at Surf will have them as soon as they hit the street. You might want to call or send him an email to get on a notification list when they are released.

I buy all of my remotes from Mike and have never been let down.

http://www.hideflifestyle.com/universal-remote-control-mx980-p-1140.html?cPath=10_25

Worth making a phone call at very least.

eddielives-thank you! I just ordered it and they are shipping today! They are a new URC dealer and they got 20 units last week which shocked them...they have 6, well make that 5 left, so if any one else is interested - call them - the price is right and free shipping!

ThomasV555 - I agree - Dillon at HiDef said it is a sweet hard button remote - simple logical layout, clean lines, and the screen is easy to see. I will let you know what my first impressions are when I get it.

I'm just disappointed that all AVS sales go to HiDef and SurfRemote.

Internet trunk slammers are destroying this hobby and don't be deluded, they're shilling you through PM's and other means.

Damn sold out!

I'm just disappointed that all AVS sales go to HiDef and SurfRemote.

Internet trunk slammers are destroying this hobby and don't be deluded, they're shilling you through PM's and other means.

I don't understand. They're an authorized dealer, and this is a hot product. What's the problem? I'm not trying to be a wise ass, I'm just curious. Please elaborate, or PM me.

What sort of price are these going for?

Cheers
John

I don't understand. They're an authorized dealer, and this is a hot product. What's the problem? I'm not trying to be a wise ass, I'm just curious. Please elaborate, or PM me.

I'm no angel, but I "generally" help people here when I can. I don't do it to line the pockets of Hi Def and Mike at Surf Remote (in Mike's case he does his own legwork.)

I do it hoping that people will support their local economy. If my free advice and information is causing people to devalue their local guy, then I will stop. I won't personally actively participate in that. I actually like this A/V Hobby. I don't want it Walmarted.

I feel some of you guys manipulate the "community" feel of these forums. It happened at the SPot, then HTF, and AVS had tried to keep it under control, but they appear to be failing IMO. I'm just sick of it and don't care if the owners get a cut.

Aren't you the guy that PM'ed me about preordering the MX980 who I subsequently had some choice words for..?

This whole thread deviation is a bit strange. There are a good number of us on AVS (and Remote Central, SPot, etc.) who enjoy programming our toys and do not need the services of an Installer. I would not have any issue buying the URC line locally but the prices at B&M stores are beyond ridiculous. I have a handful of options in the DC-area but they all try for MSRP on these remotes. I won't comment on your wallet, but there is no way in hell I am going to pay >$300 more than Surf Remote for the privilege of buying it at Magnolia/Meyer-Emco/other URC B&Ms. Mike's advice and assistance (and that of other vendors as well) with programming intricacies is an added bonus that puts a feather in his cap to go along with his Authorized reseller status. This is not a case of eBay grey market vendors or guys flipping remotes out of their trunks -- Surf, ProRemotes, HiDef Lifestyle are volume outlets for URC. It would not surprise me in the least if they were among URC's Top 10 product movers.

there is no way in hell I am going to pay >$300 more than Surf Remote for the privilege of buying it at Magnolia/Meyer-Emco/other URC B&Ms.

Yep, you pay full price and still don't get the updateable software.:(

Aren't you the guy that PM'ed me about preordering the MX980 who I subsequently had some choice words for..?
.

No. I have a total of 12 PMs. And you're not one of them.

This person seemed like they wanted the remote, and wanted to buy from an authorized dealer. The local guys don't seem to have it, so I simply suggested an option. Settle down. You're acting like the guy bought one on fleaBay. :rolleyes:

Relax. ;)
The way I'm acting is based on your interpretation of tone, meaning it's just text. You don't have to agree, I'm just providing my viewpoint.

I personally don't see a difference between the Ebayers and the authorized guys. They sell for the same pricing and most likely have similar suppliers.
In fact what bugs me is that if I keep naming the usual suspects they just get more business.

Am I settled down enough for you? <--condescending tone to me, but who knows ;)

Sorry about mistaking you for the guy who PM'ed me. It was someone from
Hi Def and it was basically
"Pssss.. you can get a preorder for that remote you were posting about with us for a good price."
I replied..:)

If others can push their online dealer of choice why am I getting rained on for rec'ding people buy local? The MX980 will be in full circulation in a week. I know I checked it out.

Point taken. What do you say we end this thread? I wasn't looking to start any s*#t here. I was simply making a suggestion, and the original poster had the option of making their own choice to buy online or wait for a B&M store to get them. FWIW, I have NO affiliation with any remote control Co..

You might want to hold off a bit on the 980 and see more reviews and opinions of it. I got one a few days ago. I am very familiar with the line but I have to say, the Editor software is somewhat cumbersome. Not at all the ease to program of say a MX-850. Of course , the 980 will run rings around that, more then likely. At any rate, be ready for a pretty high learning curve to really get it to do exactly what you need. It may not be for the true newbie.

For what its worth... mine got returned to URC as it locked up after just a few hours. Wierd. I'd bet it is an isolated case but again, might make for another reason to hold up a bit before buying.

Any 980's in stock anywhere at an authorized dealer?

WS

The rumor is that internet sales will not be allowed on this remote. I'll update this once I know, but I'm sure one of the dealers can confirm or deny this.

The rumor is that internet sales will not be allowed on this remote. I'll update this once I know, but I'm sure one of the dealers can confirm or deny this.

It looks like in addition to the MX-980, the MSC-400 won't be available via internet sales either. I guess at least the CI's will be happy. As a DIYer I guess I will avoid the MX-980; too much uncertainty on whether the updateable s/w is provided.

It looks like in addition to the MX-980, the MSC-400 won't be available via internet sales either. I guess at least the CI's will be happy. As a DIYer I guess I will avoid the MX-980; too much uncertainty on whether the updateable s/w is provided.

That is silly.

Just ask the dealer or installer if they provide the updateable software.

It's more than just CI's. Local dealers will be happy that they finally have a fair shot at offering URC to their customers.

The MX980 + MSC400 is about the best you can do w/ URC, but I hope you are very experienced or extremely patient when it comes to DIYing those units.

The rumor is that internet sales will not be allowed on this remote. I'll update this once I know, but I'm sure one of the dealers can confirm or deny this.

No rumor, it's true. It includes the MX-980, MSC-400 and MSC-400 accessories. Any authorized dealer, internet or not, cannot sell these products outside of their territory.

I have an MX-700 and an MX-900. I purchased the MX-900 about a year ago after URC's policy change regarding updateable s/w. I did a lot of research and had multiple conversations with URC directly. At the time URC stated that it was up to the AD or CI as to which version they supplied; this worried me. My local dealer was less than knowledgable about the whole situation. I even questioned whether they were authorized since they weren't listed as such on URC's site. I brought this to URC's attention and they are now listed as authorized.
There were many posts a year ago from individuals who purchased from AD's and did not get the updateable s/w. I am referencing individuals that had existing remotes when the policy change was made. Tbh, I believe in most cases URC took care of these individuals.
A mentioned above I did a lot of research and ended up purchasing from Pro Remot*s; and would do so again. I am not so sure that I would trust my local dealer should URC make some other change down the road, let's say in 3 years.
I have been eagerly anticipating the arrival of the MX-980 but will hold out for a while and see what happens.
Regarding programming, I would much rather program one of the MX Series (MX-850 and above) vs the consumer R or RF Series.

No rumor, it's true. It includes the MX-980, MSC-400 and MSC-400 accessories. Any authorized dealer, internet or not, cannot sell these products outside of their territory.

Thanks for the clarification!
Btw Mike, I would not hesitate to purchase a remote from you. You have many informative posts both here and at RemoteC*ntral and I have never read a bad thing about you. You seem to want to genuinely assist those with problems.

Any updates on in stock availability?

ty,
WS

URC has stock on both the MX980 and the MSC400. They told us yesterday they have filled all their open orders now and have inventory left in house. If you find your local authorized dealer they should either have stock or be able to order them in for you.

That is silly.

Just ask the dealer or installer if they provide the updateable software.
You go ahead and give that a try at Magnolia. Be ready for the "deer in the headlights" look. ;)

Can you believe you can't order this remote online anymore....

WS

Any dealers out there willing to PM me with a Personal Invitation Code or Registration Code so I program this thing?

I managed to get the MX-810 up and running exactly as I desired, so now I'm ready to tackle the MX-980. After that, I'll determine which one I'll keep.

Thanks in advance to whoever can help me with this...I hate going all weekend without programming this beauty!

You got an MX980 and no software?
Could you elaborate, please?

You got an MX980 and no software?
Could you elaborate, please?

I'm not sure what there is to say...the MX-980 comes with no software in the box, the URC website does not have downloadable software on it, and the URC Control Room requires a Regsitration Code or Personal Invitation Code to get into to download the software.

I sent an email to URC but since it's Saturday I don't expect a response until next week.

It's very frustrating....what were they thinking?:mad:

BTW, I purchased the unit yesterday from a SF Bay Area standalone Magnolia store. Great store, nice people...just can't get the software!!

BTW, I purchased the unit yesterday from a SF Bay Area standalone Magnolia store. Great store, nice people...just can't get the software!!

Since URC changed their s/w policy over a year ago there have been numerous complaints about Magnolia not providing the updateable s/w. You can try contacting URC and explain your situation or return the remote to Magnolia. I personally doubt you will have any luck with Magnolia.

If you decide to purchase from another AD I would recommend contacting the AD and ask about their policy regarding s/w. Additionally I would contact URC and ask specifics about the AD you intend to purchase from.

Since URC changed their s/w policy over a year ago there have been numerous complaints about Magnolia not providing the updateable s/w.


I'm already back in touch with Magnolia. I have a very good relationship with this particular store so I'm hoping I can shake something loose. In the meantime, if someone is willing to provide me access to the software I would be very appreciative :).

Does URC have any idea how frustrating this can be? Why sell a remote via retail if you aren't going to provide the software? Maybe they're just being slow about putting the software up on their standard website. If that's the case, they should do better planning since the remote IS available to consumers at B&M stores and those users definitely need access to the software if they aren't contracting someone to program it.

Does URC have any idea how frustrating this can be? Why sell a remote via retail if you aren't going to provide the software? Maybe they're just being slow about putting the software up on their standard website. If that's the case, they should do better planning since the remote IS available to consumers at B&M stores and those users definitely need access to the software if they aren't contracting someone to program it.

Even if URC does put the s/w on the registration site it will not be the updatable version. Imo I would return the remote if neither Magnolia or URC are willing to provide the updatable version. Others may argue that the updatable version is not necessary but as expensive as the MX-980 is, I would not compromise with the non-updatable s/w.

I agree w/ Sunstar. Magnolia and Tweeter do not provide the software purposefully in order to facilitate remote installation charges.
If you ask for it directly they should provide it, but someone in their corporate office has chosen otherwise. I guess they are scared people will use them to try out the remotes w/ their return policy or maybe the DIYer is not their demographic.

...the MX-980 comes with no software in the box, the URC website does not have downloadable software on it, and the URC Control Room requires a Regsitration Code or Personal Invitation Code to get into to download the software.

Got mine yesterday from Tweeter... Same problem. I will try to get ahold of my sales rep over there who usually takes good care of me. In the meantime I just bought a doorstop. I assume my MX-950 software won't work?

Got mine yesterday from Tweeter... Same problem. I will try to get ahold of my sales rep over there who usually takes good care of me. In the meantime I just bought a doorstop. I assume my MX-950 software won't work?

I was able to get the software from the store...but since they're 50 miles away that was a pain in the a**!! In any case, I'm now in the process of programming the unit, but have run into a couple of snags as the app doesn't seem to perform as described. Maybe it's just my learning curve. I'll spend some more time on it and see if I'm missing something. I'm definitely short on templates as there should be at least two and I seem to only have one. I read on remotecentral that there will be up to a total of 10 templates coming soon. So now I wonder how do I get those?:confused:

Hi All

Please pardon my lack of knowledge on the URC remotes. I have been looking for a new remote and like the mx-980 however I am concerned about the policies I have been reading about for obtaining software. I have a couple of questions that maybe someone in the know can help with.


1. What is the differance in the updatable vs. non-updatable software?

2. How does one tell if they have been sent updatable vs. non-updatable software? Are they different version numbers?

Thanks for the help.

I assume my MX-950 software won't work?

You assume correctly.

I read on remotecentral that there will be up to a total of 10 templates coming soon. So now I wonder how do I get those?:confused:

Unless URC decides to make them freely available or part of a Live Update, you'll have to go back to your dealer to get them.

Hi All

Please pardon my lack of knowledge on the URC remotes. I have been looking for a new remote and like the mx-980 however I am concerned about the policies I have been reading about for obtaining software. I have a couple of questions that maybe someone in the know can help with.


1. What is the differance in the updatable vs. non-updatable software?

2. How does one tell if they have been sent updatable vs. non-updatable software? Are they different version numbers?

Thanks for the help.

There's no non-updateable software yet, if at all, for the 980. The updateable software allows you to have the very latest IR codes that the URC database has.

The non-updateable software is usually available for download off URC's website. The MX980 is not there yet.

For those of you that are worried about templates.. I'm confused. As a DIYer why go through the effort of buying such a capable remote and then just use a template for everything. You can create almost any background. Get creative. That's the point of a custom LCD screen. I know it might be too much work for some, but most of you should be loving the newer backgrounds.

There's no non-updateable software yet, if at all, for the 980. The updateable software allows you to have the very latest IR codes that the URC database has.

I agree, most likely URC has not developed the non-updatable version and this is the reason it is not listed on the registration page. Who knows, they may never release a non-updatable version.
The updatable s/w also allows you to receive firmware updates; especially important with a newly released remote. As thorough as URC was in developing the MX-980, there will more than likely be a few bugs.

I received my MX980 from Value Electronics yesterday and downloaded the software from URC. It took some serious programming to get all 16 devices in but it's all set now and beautiful!

The non-updateable software is usually available for download off URC's website. The MX980 is not there yet.



Ok. This makes sense and it what I thought but just wanted to make sure.

Thanks
Brad

I received my MX980 from Value Electronics yesterday and downloaded the software from URC. It took some serious programming to get all 16 devices in but it's all set now and beautiful!

Did VE give you a Personal Indentification Code to get into the URC Control Room? I'm curious as to how you were able to download the software.

I was able to get the software from the store...but since they're 50 miles away that was a pain in the a**!! In any case, I'm now in the process of programming the unit, but have run into a couple of snags as the app doesn't seem to perform as described. Maybe it's just my learning curve. I'll spend some more time on it and see if I'm missing something.

I got a call back from Tweeter today. My sales rep left a disk at the store for me. Going to pick it up tomorrow morning... I will let you know if I run into the same programming issues. I have already programed an 850, 900 and 950. Hopefully, this isn't too different.

Not too concerned about the live updates, other than firmware. I don't plan on updating my equipment for a while, and if I do, the remote can learn new codes anyway. It's actually more fun to program your own macros vs. using a template, though the learning curve is a bit steep if you haven't done it before.

I received my MX980 from Value Electronics yesterday and downloaded the software from URC. It took some serious programming to get all 16 devices in but it's all set now and beautiful!
Is programming pretty similar to previous URCs?

Is programming pretty similar to previous URCs?

It's a cross between the MX-950 and MX-3000. There are a few new features that are taken from the MSC-400 programming (like IF/THEN and Toggle statements), but the majority of the programming is the same as other MX remotes.

Regarding the software, there is no non-updateable version available, so the software you get will be updateable.

A representative from URC has stated in another forum that the MX-980 is an "installer-only product". He also stated that "it's unfortunate that some installers (dealers) are selling direct without programming". Edit: the representative responded by stating that he meant it was unfortunate that they were not providing the software.
Additionally even if you have the s/w for the remote the graphics expander will only be available through URC Control Room.
Basically it appears that URC only desires to have this remote sold as a programmed device.

As an installer, I generally program most remotes.
However, if there is anyone in NC who needs the remote w/o any headaches
feel free to send me an email.

You will get the updateable software. I think the issue seems to be that people are not aware of the options they have to receive URC products.

Additionally even if you have the s/w for the remote the graphics expander will only be available through URC Control Room.

But won't dealers be able to provide this to their customers as well?

But won't dealers be able to provide this to their customers as well?


I would imagine that your dealer would be able to do this, but it would be up to the individual dealer.

Yeah I read about this issue on remotecentral too.

Seems like some dealers are willing to provide the updateable software and some arent?

I just dont get the point anyway.

How do I buy this remote? Unreal I want a product and the manufacturer won't allow online dealers to sell to me...

Anyone? I still can't seem to find this remote...

thank you.
WS

Give these guys a call...
http://www.*********************/
Or send the owner a PM
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/member.php?u=60810

ALL authorized dealers have a 200 mile radius restriction on customers for the MX-980. If a dealer sells and ships to a customer outside of that radius, they run the risk of being deauthorized by URC.

One of the members who said to check the Best Buy Magnolia stores is correct, I've seen the SKU for the MX-980 with 0 in stock but can be special ordered.

One of the members who said to check the Best Buy Magnolia stores is correct, I've seen the SKU for the MX-980 with 0 in stock but can be special ordered.

Do NOT buy from Best Buy! My hubby bought me the MX850 and when I bought all my new home theater equipment I found out that my software could not be updated. I went back to Best Buy and a) they had no clue on the updateable software, and past me onto their custom installers who wouldn't give it to me. Only after three phone calls to URC and me convincing the tech I was 'capable' to program the remote, did I get the updateable software from URC.

I tried emailing and PMing value electronics- NO REPLY
I emailed URC twice to try and get them to allow a dealer outside my area to sell me a 980- NO REPLY!

This is quite possibly the hardest time I have ever had giving someone my money.

WS

Very sorry WS. Please call, email or PM me again.

-Robert

Just so the policy is clear, URC will only sell the MX980 to brick&mortar retailers and restricts them to sales within 200 miles of their store location. The MX980 is not available to online retailers unless they maintain a storefront, and cannot be sold online thru any webstore,

Very sorry WS. Please call, email or PM me again.

-Robert

ALL authorized dealers have a 200 mile radius restriction on customers for the MX-980. If a dealer sells and ships to a customer outside of that radius, they run the risk of being deauthorized by URC.
__________________
Enjoy!

Mike
Surf Audio Video
Surf Remote Control


Seems that Indiana is now part of New Jersey, eh?

ALL authorized dealers have a 200 mile radius restriction on customers for the MX-980. If a dealer sells and ships to a customer outside of that radius, they run the risk of being deauthorized by URC.
__________________
Enjoy!

Mike
Surf Audio Video
Surf Remote Control


Seems that Indiana is now part of New Jersey, eh?

WTF? Why do you have Mike's signature?

WTF? Why do you have Mike's signature?

Uhhhh, what?