Harmony 1100 or 900? Or wait for something new?

Well, I just bought a 900 to replace my still-working 5-year old 890. I've configured the 900, but haven't tested it yet. (Tonight, perhaps.)


I purchased a Harmony One two months ago to replace an 880 I spilled a soda on.


The differences will be mostly using one hand or two to control your system. I have not used a 1000 or 1100, so I can't say how much of a difference that makes.


I really liked the 880/890, so I wasn't sure how the new style would be, but I quite like it. (So much so, I picked up a pair of similarly styled 700's for the bedroom and kid's room.)


It takes just a few minutes to get your devices set up. (I recommend you glance through the appropriate threads for tips.) It takes considerably longer to dial your configuration in. I've found it helps greatly to write everything down on a sheet of paper before using the software. For example, in my theater I have 7 devices; Projector, AVR, Media Streamer, Laserdisc Player, Scaler, Lights, and Curtains. When you set up activities, such as "Watch Movie", you'll need to know what state your devices need to be in, such as "AVR set to DVD".


For consistency, I set up my additional soft buttons to be the same in all activities. In my case, the second page of soft buttons on all my activities are for lighting.


I will miss the sequences, or macros as everyone else calls them, that are on my older 890, but not on the newer 900. Currently I have a sequence called "Pause Movie", which pauses the movie and brings up the lights with one button press. It will be two with the 900.


As I haven't set up the RF for the 900 yet I can't comment. The older 890 had stick-on emitters and 3.5 mm jacks. The newer 900 uses mini-blasters (small IR repeaters) instead, and 2.5 mm jacks. I don't know the particulars of the 1100. I know it doesn't ship with an RF-to-IR base station, but I'm not sure which ones it's compatible with.


I hope I don't come off like a Harmony fanboy - I'm not. I think they shouldn't have dropped sequences. Also, I could rarely get the charger to work for any of my 8xx remotes.


Now the Philips is out of the market, perhaps URC might be an alternative. I have no experience with them, however.


Hope this helps. Let us know what you decide.

thanks all for the collaborations/feedbacks


from the readings, I believe the only difference between 900 and 1100 is that 900 is an actual traditional remote, and 1100 is square shaped, touch screen.


I think I'll go with the 900



For logitech, I believe they are by far better than any other products, ...true that their devices might die after a while..but what to do....


it's easy to setup, they have a huge database of devices....they made it for consumers....

what i meant is that they are widely used, it's commercial, you can find it on the shelves on bestbuy and other venues.


while others, sold online, doesn't support as many devices as logitech....etc.


Again, I understand that harmony products are not the best, but they are the easiest, and widely available.


it's like microsoft vs. linux



Quote:
Originally Posted by dafish721 /forum/post/20795282


bryansj,


if you don't the Harmony line of remotes what would you say is a good alternative in the same price level that also includes RF?

Click to expand...

The Acoustic Research Xsignt touch and Xsight RF base are similar to the 900, and considerably less expensive. The Xsight has PC/Wizard style programming similar to the Harmony. I've never used one, so I can't attest to the build quality or software. Search threads here for more info.


The URC-MX450 / MRF-260 can be had online for around the same price as the H900.


Much superior build quality compared to Harmony offerings. On remote programming via menus, not a PC Wizard based programming paradigm like the Harmony. No 'activities', but they can be emulated with macros. No state tracking like the Harmony, but you can use discrete IR codes to get around this. IR code base can be updated via USB, and your configuration can be uploaded and stored locally on your PC. Uses AA cells instead of a rechargeable battery, but, I consider this a plus. I also have several rechargeable harmonys and am often left with a dead remote because I either forgot to put it in the charger, or, it didn't seat correctly and didn't charge.


I use an MX-450 as my main remote in my livingroom setup, and am quite happy with it. After nearly 4 years of rigerous use, and many drops onto a hardwood floor, it still functions perfectly.


Jonathan

I just got the 1100 and i am absolutely LOVING IT!!!! If it were a woman i would make love to it. In fact, i have used it many times since to get myself off. Thats how sexy this mother effer is!!!!

I was a little skeptical because i like the feel of a traditional remote. Well my friends, let me just say this... All concerns were quickly chucked aside. If you are looking for a sleek, sexy remote that you would like to, on occasion, make sweet love to, and the other times use as an incredible universal remote, this is for you. Enjoy this remote as it freaking ROCKS!!!!! Don't listen to any of the haters out there. This remote is the real deal. it is the Fshiinitz, the bomb, the mac daddy of all remotes. Trust me. I personally guarantee you will enjoy this remote....OR YOUR MONEY BACK!!!! LMAO