I need a remote that is easy to program (including programming the macros) and won't confuse my not-so-tech savvy wife. I also don't want to spend more than $150 (and would prefer to stay under $100). The equipment I am using is:

Sony Bravia S2000
Atlantic HD DVR (cablevision)
Pioneer TSX-1016 (this avr remote has an insane number of functions, most of which I don't use)
Panny BDP-10AK (Blu-Ray)
Sony 77H (DVD)
Monoprice 3/1 HDMI switcher

Six remotes is total overkill and I need to get this under control. Please help!!

You can get the Harmony 720 at Walmart for $150. If you search around you can find the Harmony 880 for about $120 during some sales.

Other Harmony models can usually be found for less than $150 very easily (except for the new Harmony One, it will be expensive for a while since it is so new).

I'm in the same market. I wanted the Harmony One, but I can't see spending as much on a freakin remote control as a whole console system! If I can find the One for $150-200 I may consider, but that is a lot of money still...

My Carver amps don't have a soft power button, so I still have to get up to turn everything on & off...

I like URC remotes....and you can definitely find one under $150 bucks....like for instance the one I have..it falls under the professional series but very user friendly...it would be the MX-350...have to program by hand (no pc input) but once you get the hang of programming one device in the next are nice and simple...also does a great job learning commands for those you can not find codes for.

You will also be able to put in up to 500 macros (up to 197 steps each) if you so choose...the macros can be confusing at first but once you have a macro for power on for instance, the next for power off is a breeze!

Michael

I recently purchased the Harmony 550 at BB for $100 less some coupon discounts. It controls 5 components for me perfectly. It uses the same software as the more expensive Harmony remotes. Why spend more?

I decided to go with the Harmony 659 from Amazon for $44 bucks. It's a refurbished remote, but for $44 how can you go wrong (it originally sold for $200 and new it's still over $100). I actually bought a second for the bedroom. Hopefully they are good.

I can't tell what the warranty is like on the 659 refurb, do you know?

I like the button types on the 6xx better than the 550 I just returned, and from what I can tell of the 8xx they are just like the 5xx: I don't like the plasticky "click/clack" type buttons, preferring the bubbly style instead.

I had been looking at the 670 to get the centrally located transport buttons, and dedicated skip/replay buttons. However at 1/3 the price I could live with the 659 (grin) assuming that it comes/stays in good shape. I can always program the +10/Enter keys to be forward/back and it'd be essentially the same feature set.

I decided to get a Harmony 670. I like the fact that the buttons are all protruding from the case and separated enough from each other to make it easy to find buttons without having to look down at the remote.

I paid $119 at CC I think they have the same or better price at Amazon and Fry's

I just bought a 670. It should get here today. I sat there for half a day staring at the refurb 659 vs the 3x more expensive 670. I actually preferred the button layout on the 659 because all of my channel surfing buttons were right near each other, and the number pad (which I use very frequently) wasn't at no-man's land on the bottom. What finally swayed me to spend 3x as much for the 670 was that it had a few more hard buttons, including the >>| and |<< that the 659 didn't have. Since that's how I primarily advance tracks on the dvd player when listening to music, I didn't want to have to go all the way up to the soft keys in the LCD display for those. I just hope that the IR abilities of this remote are pretty good, since my receiver and DVR are slightly out of sight due to my large coffee table. The RF remote that came with my DVR has spoiled me.

Now I can't wait to see what kind of a cluster $!*% it is to program the remote on my crappy 26k dial up connection.

I got two 659's delivered on Tuesday (total purchase price was $90) from Amazon. I wanted to post a quick review. Just to recap and by way of background, my main system has a panny BD player, Oppo dvd, monoprice hdmi (3/1) switcher, pioneer 1016 receiver, scientific atlanta 8300 cable box/pvr and sony bravia (6 remotes total). The bd and dvd players are both sharing a coaxial digital cable input on the avr via a monoprice coaxial splitter (this was a work-around i put together to avoid the assignment issue i would have since both the dvd and bd players are technically sharing the same hdmi input on the avr---this setup works great btw). The BD player also is connected to the avr using the 8 multichannel analog inputs for trueHD, DTS-HD formats. I switch back and forth between the coaxial and multichannel analog depending on which format I am using. Needless to say, there are probably more complicated setups, but with six remotes and a lot of switching needed to get everything set up, this isn't a simple one.

Anyway, as with all of the Harmony Remotes, you use the online interface to set them up as opposed to plugging in tones of codes to set up each device and then manually teaching the macros to the remote to get it to work. You enter in the devices you are using. To my surprise, the library of devices was really impressive. It even had my monoprice switcher in there!!! That's not the most common toy in the chest. The interface then asks a series of questions for each activity. For example, Watch a TV: 1. Do you use the receiver to adjust the volume while you watch t.v.? 2. Do you change channels using the t.v. or cablebox? Which input is the cable box set to?

After answering questions for every activity (watch a movie, watch tv, play a cd, watch a blu-ray) it updates the remote via usb. Then you go an try it out. It was 90% of the way to perfect operation on the first try, but I was having a couple of issues with changing channels (the t.v. was changing the channels and not the cable box). The next prompt on the computer is: Is the remote controlling all functions properly. I selected no and it asked a series of questions to figure out what the problem is. I had entered the wrong answer in the original question string by mistake. The remote was updated to correct the mistake. Guess what? The remote now operates the entire system flawlessly!!! For the more advanced functions, you'll find the operating features on the LCD screen. This can be a bit annoying in the case of skipping chapters on the BD and DVD, but you can assign these features to hard buttons. On the whole, I would say that this is a terrific piece of equipment. For $44 bucks it's a total bargain!!!!!

In my bedroom setup, I have a second remote. It's controlling an older jvc avr, a sharp aquos, sony dvd and 5250HD cable box. Again, no problem except it does seem to have an issue with turning on and off the sony dvd using the watch movie feature. I think it's a minor issue with the delay since it works perfectly when I use the device mode (control a single piece of equipment). I'll play with it over the weekend to get it just right. In addition to running the theater system, I also programmed it to control the lighting/ceiling fan and the Fredereich's A/C unit in the room!! Unbelievable!!!

I am sure the Harmony One, 720 and 780 may offer some more features and ease of use--but I am not really sure how it can get that much easier than what I have now. It would be nice to have a color LCD screen and rechargeable battery (although I bought a 64 pack of AAA batteries at costco for $16 and that could last me years for two remotes). For $44 bucks a piece, I can't see not going this route over a newer or higher model for a couple of minor bells and whistles. It also comes with a 1 year warranty from Logitech, so if there's a problem you're pretty much covered. Again... can I say $44 bucks!!! This is one of the best deals I have gotten in a LONG time. Even my wife, who has NO interest in av equipment--let alone remotes (although she is happy to have one remote on the coffee table as opposed to 6) actually said "wow" and "cool" when she could push one button and get the system to play a dvd or watch tv (tasks she was incapable of doing before).

If you're on the fence about spending a few bucks on a remote, this is a great opportunity to jump on the Harmony bandwagon cheap!!! I am totally sold on this!!! It was worth every penny!!!

set, just one question (and thanks for the detailed review). I have a 550 and think the Harmony "concept" is terrific. I'd like to get another for the bedroom, and might consider the refurbished 659, but I wonder if having the transport keys for the dvr way at the bottom is a pain. We use the dvr in the bedroom quite a bit -- is it an annoyance or did you get used to it quickly?

dmlove, I don't know what DVR you have, but I know with my Motorola the up arrow functions as play/pause, and the left/right buttons function as ff and rew. I find that I use the arrows most of the time for watching recorded material on my DVR. However, if you have a DVD player in your bedroom and use it often then yes I think the transport buttons at the bottom would probably end up annoying you.

You may want to look at the Harmony 520 or 550 which can often be found for under $100 (the 520 goes on sale at Sears for $60 very often).

On a Dish DVR the transport buttons are mid-remote, where the good lord intended ;-) and used heavily, so I second the question...

Is $80 more worth it? The 550 has them in a "better" place but the build/feel is terrible to me (very plasticky and noisy).

I actually already own a 550 for downstairs, but wanted something less expensive for upstairs. I like the 550, but I would prefer more "pronounced" button spaced farther apart.

Well, i just ordered an MX-500 AND the refurb Harmony, to try both out.

Worst case scenario, if I don't send back either, I end up with a very capable MX remote, and a Harmony to have around for sending/teaching codes for remotes I've lost or never had in the first place (like the Xbox 360). At $44 ($110 for both) it's cheaper and easier than buying one of those USB IR emitters and software to drive it, and cheaper than the 550 after tax from the local BB.

Somehow I talked myself into the free shipping...excess has to stop somewhere! :)

I am in the market for a new Universal as well, my issue is I have both an HD-DVD player and a Blu-Ray (PS3 with IR dongle) and want to be able to control both. Can the MX-500 or the Harmony 670 handle this?

Given the massive database and learning capabilities, I dont see why the Harmony couldn't.

The MX-500 has no database, but full learning, so it should work as well.

Basically if you have the remotes, you can teach them to either one, so it becomes a question of your preferred control method: "activity" based for Harmony, or more "device based" for MX 500/traditional remotes.

I think the activity model is a winner if you can get used to it, and get your menus organized to have the proper functions available at hand, but to be fair i haven't gotten my MX 500 powerhouse to play with yet. Like i said in my post earlier, that refurb 659 is so cheap that it's worth having around in either scenario I would think.

Sorry, I meant to say the MX has an older, smaller database. But for your new devices, it's equivalent to "none" :)

[QUOTE=ShagnWagn;13119407]I'm in the same market. I wanted the Harmony One, but I can't see spending as much on a freakin remote control as a whole console system! If I can find the One for $150-200 I may consider, but that is a lot of money still...QUOTE]

Check the deal of the day at forum sponser PP today.

Thanks for the info, Badgerpilot. I just snagged One.

Ugh. SO tempting.

I have had a Sony RM VL900 for years (now replaced by VL600). It is EASY to read, simple, learning, and has a macro under each of the 8 device select keys. You hold the key down for the macro - great for setting a macro to select TV input, select audio input, then setting control to the device you have selected. About $25!

Someone gave me a much more expensive Harmony - I can read the Sony better, despite the lack of back light. Overall, I like the Sony better!

Dave

I still have a VL900, great freaking remote, AWESOME freaking remote, but for a few issues:

1) not enough buttons (remember honey, DVR is the +10 button...Xbox is the MD button)
2) No discrete codes if you don't have them available on original remotes to teach (or hack together one of the myriad solutions like JP1 etc to send them...still not very friendly). Makes it hard to things like jump directly to inputs, etc. Ties into #3
3) So far I dig the Harmony style of "smart state" where it "remembers' what was on, what was off, what needs to be on, etc. Makes for smoother switching between activities
4) hard to insert enough delay into macros. For example, my DLP takes about 8 seconds to turn on and become ready, same for my receiver. More often than not the VL900 (and definitely VL600) will not be able to delay long enough. Harmony can use an arbitrary number.

So, don't get me wrong, I'm not a Harmony convert yet (see previous comments), just laying out the facts; and in many ways this is a comparison to any "traditional" learning remote.

I also like and own the URC MX-700 and MX-850. Don't know about the 700 but if you are in the area of a Tweeter store, they are currently blowing out the MX-850 for $148! I just picked up another one myself. These are new in the box and not floor model. However, not all stores have them as they are on clearance, so you need to call around. The MX-850 is highly programable and supports BOTH IR and RF (with optional base which can also be found on clearance). Pick them up while you still can.

cbb77, how hard are these to program for a novice? I would be working with a Pioneer receiver, Motorola 6200 cable box, Pioneer fhd1 plasma, and a Omnimount motion 52 motorized mount. Do you like these cbb77 more than Harmony? All my stuff is in the same room and about 12 feet away in the open.

Pioneer 92 receiver and also a Sony 200 cd disc. I do not have alot inline.

Quick update:

Received the 659 and MX-500. Programming the 659 was as easy as logging into the Harmony website and choosing to Replace my Remote. It copied all of the 550 settings right over. So far i like the button "feel" a lot better. I think I could get used to the transport buttons at the bottom, but not sold yet. The LCD displays fewer characters than the 550 so I need to go edit button titles (seeing 4 "InputCom") doesn't do much for me :)

MX-500: I really like the feel of it, and the programming style is VERY easy to understand. May main problem so far is that it SAYS it's learning the VOL buttons from my Harmony and original remote for my Sharp receiver, but it doesn't seem to transmit properly. More research is needed!

Still semi kicking myself over not getting the One yesterday ;-)

[aQUOTE=ShagnWagn;13119407]I'm in the same market. I wanted the Harmony One, but I can't see spending as much on a freakin remote control as a whole console system! If I can find the One for $150-200 I may consider, but that is a lot of money still...QUOTE]

Check the deal of the day at forum sponser PP today.

Gah, I must have missed what you were talking about :(

I like URC remotes....and you can definitely find one under $150 bucks....like for instance the one I have..it falls under the professional series but very user friendly...it would be the MX-350...have to program by hand (no pc input) but once you get the hang of programming one device in the next are nice and simple...also does a great job learning commands for those you can not find codes for.

You will also be able to put in up to 500 macros (up to 197 steps each) if you so choose...the macros can be confusing at first but once you have a macro for power on for instance, the next for power off is a breeze!

Michael

when you say that a macro of upto 197 steps can be created, are those
steps basically other functions of the MX-350 remote or can the macro
be a collection of multiple layers in a menu on the receiver.

For example if I have to set the speaker size on Yamaha 661 or 659, I have
to go down to several layers in the main set up menu. Same with the Onkyo 605.

Now is it possible to put all these steps in a macro on MX-350 or any other
programmable remote so that by hitting 1 button on the universal remote
I can achieve what I can only achieve by going through mutiple layers
on the AVR menu (using the AVR remote)

I was using an original Pronto TS-1000. I recently moved and bought all new A/V equipment. I am wondering if it is worth reprogramming/designing the pronto or going with a new Harmony. I have done absolutely no research or comparisons on the Harmony, so I am not aware of what is best. Are there ex-Pronto users out there who have switched to the Harmony.

cbb77, how hard are these to program for a novice? I would be working with a Pioneer receiver, Motorola 6200 cable box, Pioneer fhd1 plasma, and a Omnimount motion 52 motorized mount. Do you like these cbb77 more than Harmony? All my stuff is in the same room and about 12 feet away in the open.

Honestly, i did find it difficult at first but now once you play with it a bit, it's actually easy. If you are simply looking for basic function, you should be able to get up and running in no time. There is another website out there, remotecentral, that provides hundreds of discrete codes for variety of devices. Just download the files for your specific device and load onto the remote - easy. It can also learn buttons from any remote the standard way of pointing the remote to it and hitting the learn function on the software. Where it's a little bit more difficult is setting up macros. Again this is more advanced and not required if you don't want. That's the beauty of this remote, you can keep it simple or add more complex macros to ANY button on the remote. For example, the select button I setup for my DVD switches to display all of the appropriate DVD functions. However if I hold button down for 2-3 seconds it executes the macro I created which will turn tv on, turn receiver on, set input on receiver, turn dvd on and hit eject button to open the tray. You can add delays, etc, have it turn off lights (if ir or RF controled) etc.

Again, you will need to shop around Tweeter stores to see which has them. You can also save time and check via their website in the clearance section. If not, these can also be found via ebay. I was planning on going that route till I found out Tweeter was selling them at clearance. Again, I can't say enough about this remote. Yes, it doesn't have Color display as some others out there, but to me that is a luxury I can live without. Plus I bet those nice color displays really eat thru batteries.

when you say that a macro of upto 197 steps can be created, are those
steps basically other functions of the MX-350 remote or can the macro
be a collection of multiple layers in a menu on the receiver.

For example if I have to set the speaker size on Yamaha 661 or 659, I have
to go down to several layers in the main set up menu. Same with the Onkyo 605.

Now is it possible to put all these steps in a macro on MX-350 or any other
programmable remote so that by hitting 1 button on the universal remote
I can achieve what I can only achieve by going through mutiple layers
on the AVR menu (using the AVR remote)

Not sure on the 350, but I can do this with the MX-700 and MX-850. This would be considered a Macro. You would just program the steps and then assign it to any button you like. All you need to do to execute would be to hold down the programmed button for 2-3 secs to kick off he macro.