View Full Version : Need RF remote recommendations for home theater


TigerBoo
02-22-08, 07:24 PM
I want to replace my MX-700(since it's IR only) for a new RF remote.

Here is my setup:

Yamaha LPX-510 projector (possibly Sony VPL-VW60 later)
Yamaha RX-V3800 receiver
DirecTV HR20 HDDVR box
XBOX 360 w/ HD-DVD add on drive
Unknown DVD player (possibly PS3 for BR disc purposes)

I do not have any lighting remote control needs.

I currently have a IR sensor mounted below my screen; even though my equipment is visible in the room, it's inconvenient to have to "point" the remote at the rack to operate. It seems like the time for a good RF solution is at hand.

I know there are several of these threads, and I have read them, but I'm wondering which remotes are favored most right now. I have used the URC remote for 3+ years, including 2 other MX-500 units. I know Harmony's are pretty hot, but not sure if I will like them after using URC products.

Thanks in advance!

hanpan
02-22-08, 10:59 PM
I want to replace my MX-700(since it's IR only) for a new RF remote.

Here is my setup:

Yamaha LPX-510 projector (possibly Sony VPL-VW60 later)
Yamaha RX-V3800 receiver
DirecTV HR20 HDDVR box
XBOX 360 w/ HD-DVD add on drive
Unknown DVD player (possibly PS3 for BR disc purposes)

I do not have any lighting remote control needs.

I currently have a IR sensor mounted below my screen; even though my equipment is visible in the room, it's inconvenient to have to "point" the remote at the rack to operate. It seems like the time for a good RF solution is at hand.

I know there are several of these threads, and I have read them, but I'm wondering which remotes are favored most right now. I have used the URC remote for 3+ years, including 2 other MX-500 units. I know Harmony's are pretty hot, but not sure if I will like them after using URC products.

Thanks in advance!

I would look into depending on budget:

RTI T2cs and T3v look exciting but may not yet be available. The T2c is very well regarded. $$$ http://www.rticorp.com/products/default.html

The nevo q50 is getting pretty rave reviews You need the nevo connect to do RF. $$ http://www.mynevo.com/html.php?page_id=345

The harmony 890 is an old standby. It has its quirks, but the value is definately there. (espcially when on sale for $199 at amazon.) http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/remotes/universal_remotes/devices/374&cl=us,en

TigerBoo
02-23-08, 01:25 AM
I would look into depending on budget:

RTI T2cs and T3v look exciting but may not yet be available. The T2c is very well regarded. $$$ http://www.rticorp.com/products/default.html

The nevo q50 is getting pretty rave reviews You need the nevo connect to do RF. $$ http://www.mynevo.com/html.php?page_id=345

The harmony 890 is an old standby. It has its quirks, but the value is definately there. (espcially when on sale for $199 at amazon.) http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/remotes/universal_remotes/devices/374&cl=us,en

Yeah, the Harmony is available right now from Amazon for $173 after online coupon...I held it in my hands tonight at Best Buy, and I'm pretty concerned with the tiny button layout, esp. for features like CH+/-.

I did some research on the Nevo, and it seems pretty cool. The RTI might be tougher as there aren't any local dealers here in Kansas City.

hanpan
02-23-08, 01:39 AM
Yeah, the Harmony is available right now from Amazon for $173 after online coupon...I held it in my hands tonight at Best Buy, and I'm pretty concerned with the tiny button layout, esp. for features like CH+/-.

I did some research on the Nevo, and it seems pretty cool. The RTI might be tougher as there aren't any local dealers here in Kansas City.

THe nevo is no question a nicer remote. But in reality it is going to cost you close to 5 times what the harmony costs. The 890 does leave something to be desired in terms of button layout. The one is much better in this regard, but at least for now, no RF. The 1000 also does RF and it seems the issues with it are finally worked out, but it has only a few hard buttons, and many people have had issues with them.

MikeSRC
02-25-08, 12:27 PM
If you want to stay with something similar to your MX-700 (and use the same files), get an MX-850. If you want to move up a bit, look at the MX-900. I don't recommend Hamony remotes for RF, as I've had too many problems in the past with them.

pheroy
02-26-08, 01:13 PM
If you want to stay with something similar to your MX-700 (and use the same files), get an MX-850. If you want to move up a bit, look at the MX-900. I don't recommend Hamony remotes for RF, as I've had too many problems in the past with them.

Mike, do you mean problems with Harmony remotes in general, or specifically for RF? I'm using an 880 and considering an eventual move to RF (especially if they do an RF version of the One). Care to elaborate?

TigerBoo
02-27-08, 03:24 PM
If you want to stay with something similar to your MX-700 (and use the same files), get an MX-850. If you want to move up a bit, look at the MX-900. I don't recommend Hamony remotes for RF, as I've had too many problems in the past with them.


Mike--if I go with either the MX-850 or 900, do I need the separate RF extender base station, or will just the remote work?

Greg C
02-27-08, 04:56 PM
You will need an MRF-260 or MRF-350 basestation.

Nasty N8
02-27-08, 05:06 PM
I had purchased the Harmony 1000 and returned it had terrible range and did not function as I wanted. I am going with an RTI system that stuff is rock solid.

Nate

Sailn
03-04-08, 02:58 PM
I have mx-900, tx-100, mx-950 and have played with mx-3000. I use the tx-1000 in the theater, love it. Becuase the display color is configuarble, it it easy to have a very low backlightling on the display, great for a dark theater.

The 12 button touch screen is far more convient than scrolling through several pages. I also really like the feel of it, it rests well on the arm of a chair.

You may or may not need an RF basestation. I find that the ir is strong enough on the TX-1000 so that it can bounce off the screen and control the equipment at the back of the theater. That being said, I do use an MSC-400 becuase it supports vaiable, is programable, supports rs-232, usb keyboard emulation, and has sensors & relays which are of value to me.

It is very convient to be able to surf the web, and control netflix from the same remote which controls everythingelse.