by Sue on August 18, 2011
A solid performance is what Sony RM-VL600 8-Device Universal Learning Remote has to offer. It is a Universal Learning Remote through and through. It can control up to eight devices, definitely not bad as function and price go.
Sony RM-VL600 8-Device Universal Learning Remote
There are quite a number of default codes provided in the manual, making it handy and easy for me to program my devices. More significantly, I was able to manually make my Universal Learning Remote learn up functions which seem to be unavailable with its physical buttons.
All I had to do was to sync the original remote to the Sony RM-VL600 8-Device Universal Learning Remote and the learning remote swiftly learns the function required. I am also happy to say that the additional functions did not put a strain on the memory capacity of this remote at all.
This practical Universal Learning Remote is not over-crowded with fancy buttons, something I have taken a liking to, since I can familiarize myself without any fuss with the remote. Also, the remote provides me with the function whereby I can record and replay a set of keystrokes. The recorded sequence is replayed with a single button, very convenient.
The battery life is acceptable as this Universal Learning Remote has no LCD display, meaning no CDs are required or any particular drivers needed to be downloaded. Two AA batteries are needed for the remote and something I would like to mention, would be that the applicable range is quite plausible.
Nevertheless, the only dissatisfaction is that there are no backlights, not exactly pleasant when I am in a darkly lit room. It would also be a plus point if this learning remote had a sleeker and more classy design, appearance is not everything, but it still counts.
Other than the tiny flaws mentioned above, Sony RM-VL600 8-Device Universal Learning Remote is worth every penny invested in it. If I were to choose a learning remote again, this would still be my choice.
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by Sue on August 11, 2011
At the beginning, I had my doubts whether or not did I spend too much on this pricey Philips Color Pronto Remote Control TSU9600. However, this Luxury Universal Remote proves to be a treat.
Philips Color Pronto Remote Control TSU9600- Luxury Universal Remote
The software which comes with the remote, Pronto Edit Professional would have made more sense if you understood professional installation. I had to struggle to figure out the programming, particularly since I had many devices at home. It would have been an immense help if there was a wizard-based system to kick-start the installation.
Looking pass the tedious setup, Philips Color Pronto Remote Control TSU9600 can be configured to control everything from your usual television to lighting. But what makes it truly special is its support for Escient music managers and Lutron lighting control.
I was so thrilled to discover the Pronto could even control devices placed in other rooms, thanks to the Wi-Fi feature and the two extenders offered by Philips which made it possible for beyond sight infrared control. I was quite impressed with the Pronto’s controlling system as it can acquire Wi-Fi network at lightning speed.
Also, I have to say that Pronto is not merely a Luxury Universal Remote, but a design of art in itself. The utterly streamlined and flat design of the remote, without any indentation around the touch screen, is one of a kind. The transparent charger dock emits a gentle glow of white LEDs during charging, the effect is simply admirable, the battery life is reasonable too.
The Pronto, having a large touch screen, boasts gorgeous, bright-sharp images. At times, I wonder why couldn’t I just watch videos on it instead. However, this big universal remote simply requires both hands to navigate and it takes some getting used to.
In short, Philips Color Pronto Remote Control TSU9600 has everything you want from a universal remote due to its extensive customizable feature. Getting over with its complicated and troublesome setup programming and the need to navigate the remote using both hands, the Pronto is truly a remote which offers you control over your home devices at your fingertips.
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After getting my hands on my Xbox 360, I’ve been scouting for a remote control which will satisfy my needs to juggle navigation between the Xbox 360, my home theater set and other devices in my living room. It is as though Logitech Harmony Xbox 360 Remote has answered my call.
Logitech Harmony Xbox 360 Remote-Best Value Universal Remote
I must say that this is the Best Value Universal Remote, especially if you are a Xbox 360 junkie. It comes with full 360-enabled functions and boasts a couple of Xbox 360-flavored buttons which no doubt comes in handy when accessing the media functions of the game console.
As installation goes, it is easy to configure this remote to my desired devices using its web-based software, which is both Mac and Windows compatible, so no worries there. After registering a Logitech user ID, I just had to provide the device type, manufacturer and model number of my device. However, if there was the slightest chance that your device is not in the database, all you have to do is to sync the original remote with this Logitech beauty.
Logitech Harmony Xbox 360 Remote can contain 12 devices in its memory and I personally think it is more than enough. Furthermore, the remote is exceptionally useful in the dark as the buttons and Interactive Display are fortified with green back lights.
If I had something to find fault with this Universal Remote, it would be the fact that it does not come with a rechargeable battery. This remote uses up four AAA batteries and there is no other way to better this flaw other than a recharger cradle.
Another minor imperfection is the too closely spaced numeric keypads. I find it somehow annoying when it comes to flipping channels and getting them all wrong while trying to get accustomed to its closely grouped keypads.
All in short, Logitech Harmony Xbox 360 Remote is truly the Best Value Universal Remote, possessing the sleekest appearance, one which is compatible with the Xbox 360, while not disappointing when it comes to functions, and most importantly, along with a reasonable price.
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A month ago, almost half a dozen remote controllers are left cluttered messily across my coffee table top. I must say it is a blessing when I finally got my hands on Logitech Harmony One Advanced Universal Remote. Using this Universal Remote is like combining all my remotes into one without breaking a sweat.
Logitech Harmony One Universal Remote with Color Touchscreen
Logitech Harmony One Advanced Universal Remote – User-friendly
The best thing I like about this Universal Remote is that the setup was swift and user-friendly. The remote was connected to my PC using the USB cable provided, then I visited Logitech’s website, downloaded the software needed, follow the on-screen instructions, the software then configures the remote accordingly. All these took up a mere thirty minutes.
So far, I have my television, DVD player, TiVos, VCR, cable boxes and air conditioner configured with this Universal Remote. The whole experience is pleasant and hassle-free. However, it seems that those who are using Mac encountered some problems.
Other Great Features
Also, I don’t need to go looking for extra batteries anymore since the remote comes with a rechargeable battery. The charger cradle is very handy as it serves as a convenient dock for my remote. Naturally, there is a battery indicator on the remote’s LCD touch screen and the battery life is remarkable.
The sleek body contours of this Logitech Harmony One Advanced Universal Remote fits snugly in my palm. The backlit buttons, useful in the dark, are solid and good to the touch, with frequently utilized buttons located right beneath my thumb.
The color LCD touch screen on the remote boasts virtual buttons to replace whichever non-present physical ones. I can even download my photographs to run as a screensaver, how cool is that!
An annoying fact though, the touch screen is so super sensitive that my devices will be switched on when I am wiping fingerprints off the screen. It is impossible to lock the LCD screen and the remote cannot be turned off unless the battery is taken out.
If you are not a big fan of thick instruction booklets but want your remotes to be combined under one, Logitech Harmony One Advanced Universal Remote is the Best Universal Remote for you.
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Universal remote is something we use to combine several remote controls we use into a single one. The most common appliances in the living room are sound system, TV, video players and etc. When you are watching TV or listen to songs, walking to the system itself just to calibrate the channel and volume is just a frustration. Moreover the volume you re experiencing right in front of the TV isn’t necessary the same as that when you are on couch. That’s why remote controls are used to do the job.
Today, some of us are having well over 10 of remote controllable appliances in the house. And the mess itself is made by the placing of remote control. Sometimes, you can’t even figure out which remote is for what. Cut the clutter on your coffee table now with a universal remote! You can program the remote itself to sync with your machines and just control everything in your house with just a single remote control.
How do you choose the best universal remote for yourself? Do you need one that’s just for living room? Or do you need one which is for the entire house? Low end universal remotes offer controls up to 3 or 5 devices only, while high end ones could offer up to 15.
The connectivity technology of a remote control aren’t usually just the common infrared and RF, some models offers control through more modern ways like Bluetooth and WLAN. You can even control your personal computer, desktop and notebook alike, with a universal remote. Some of the remotes are equipped with an operating system. With that you can actually connect and control your PC remotely.
You can do your tasks with a time lag with the timer feature, like recording or downloading a movie. The macro feature also enables you to program several task to be performed together or accordingly with a single button. You can macro everything with just some creativity. For instance, you can set a 2 hours delay for downloading or recording a movie and set your Bluetooth alarm clock to wake up when it’s completed, then switch on the sound system and play the movie the moment you wake up.
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by Sue on November 27, 2009
1. Functionality – basic or advanced?
Decide for yourself first whether you want a universal remote that can do only the basic functions such as power on and off, play, stop, pause, etc; or one that can perform all the advanced functions included in the original remote controls.
If you rarely even use the advanced function buttons on the original remotes, then you might as well get a basic universal remote control that is cheaper.
2. Control range
Don’t feel like getting up and going into the next room to switch off that air-cond? Get a universal remote with radio frequency that can navigate through partitions! A good model is the Logitech Harmony 1000 Advanced Universal Remote.
These are more advanced universal remotes and cost more, of course. If you’re getting this type of universal remote, make sure it can control a good number of devices, or you might as well invest in two standard universal remotes and keep one in each room.
3. Users
Who will be using the universal remote more? Different people like different kinds of universal remotes.
Seniors would prefer larger and maybe back-lit or illuminated buttons that are easier to see. People who’re not so good at devices would like simple and basic buttons just to let them control many devices with one remote control.
Techies like advanced technologies that allow them more flexibility in functions. For instance, an Xbox junkie like me would love this Logitech Harmony Xbox 360 Remote.
4. Rechargeable battery and dock?
I strongly advise you to buy a universal remote that doesn’t need you to configure devices all over again when you change the battery. What a waste of time! If the universal remote cannot keep the configurations when the battery is taken out, then you’d better check if it has a rechargeable battery and dock.
Some people would like a dock because it keeps the universal remote in place and you don’t have to look around for it. Logitech Harmony 880 Advanced Universal Remote Control comes with one.
5. Number of devices
Count the number of devices you want to control with the universal remote, add a rough number of devices you may add to your home in the future, then get the universal remote that can control so many devices.
This will make sure you’re really getting that ONE remote control for all devices. If you’re frequently updating your home devices, get a learning universal remote like this Sony RM-VL600 8-Device Universal Learning Remote.
6. Types of devices
Are you using common brands of devices at home? Universal remotes come with a listing of codes for many brands and models of devices in its manual, but if you’re using some unknown or rare brand of device, you may have to search for the code on your own.
You can avoid some trouble by checking what types and brands of devices the universal remote can control. A good universal remote for home theater system is the Logitech Harmony 890 Advanced Universal Remote Control, while the Logitech Harmony 880 Advanced Universal Remote Control is compatible with most systems.
Go to my Best Universal Remote main page or blog for more tips and universal remote reviews.
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by Sue on October 27, 2009
The attractive and stylish Logitech Harmony 670 Universal Remote has a bunch of pros as well as some inevitable cons. The product is designed uniquely for Digital Video Recorder (DVR) users.
Logitech Harmony 670 Universal Remote
It has color-coded activity controls that allow you to one single button to configure your devices. Aside from that, I really like the backlit keys featured in the universal remote, no more complaining about fumbling through the buttons when in the dark.
One other good thing about this device is that it provides an easy task for you to set it up, rather than wasting your time figuring out steps one by one. The web wizard will breeze you through each and every step and you’ll finally get hold of a universal masterpiece. This, I am grateful for since I’m not really a read-the-thick-manual guide person.
Another reason I believe why the Logitech Harmony 670 Universal Remote has potential to attract other customers is that it is easy to use. With just one press of any activity buttons; the remote will do everything else for you.
Well if you face any obstacles, any problems at all, with a push of the ‘Help’ button, you’ll gain instant access to a troubleshooter that can help you get it all back. Besides that, if you’re the type who hates being outdated, this is the controller for you. With this controller, just by simply connecting to your computer with the USB interface, you’ll be updated with new components, so that you will never be left behind!
Even though it has great functions and features, it still does have some slight problems. Small problems that have been complained by users can include delays when turning multiple devices on, if you have bad aiming skills, and if you miss an angle, you will miss the device and have to face the consequences with the “Help” button.
All in all, the Logitech Harmony 670 Universal Remote has its fair share of goodness and I believe it is acceptable to oversee the small flaw.
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by Sue on October 20, 2009
If you take a look at the 3.5” touch screen on the Logitech Harmony 1000 Advanced Universal Remote, you’ll find that it takes us to another level of ease with the color icons and backlit buttons.
Logitech Harmony 1000 Advanced Universal Remote
If you’re the energy saving or time saving type, don’t you worry because this device ensures customer satisfaction with the rechargeable Lithium-ion battery. With the recharging stand, you won’t even feel its battery dying.
This universal remote controls a wide assortment of systems, from HDTVs to PVR/DVRs, and even so, Logitech’s online database still continues growing every day. This is particularly convenient since it wouldn’t be a hassle if I were to buy a new device any need to have it configured.
The Logitech Harmony 1000 Advanced Universal Remote has a Help Button to serve you and your problems, this would bring much ease and convenient to users. Aside from that, with the One-touch activity controls, I can simply touch one icon and expect all the necessary components lay out before me.
I could also customize additional pages to my liking and fulfill the updates I need. Well, I do this on and off just to make sure that I am constantly updated.
Sadly, what’s not at all amusing is the inconsistent sensitivity of the touch screen, some of the virtual buttons don’t respond properly even if you put pressure on it. Some would wish that a stylus was provided, but unfortunately, even if it was, that wouldn’t solve the fact that the sensitivity hasn’t got the quality we all expect. Only after countless tries will you only be able to succeed in doing so.
It is needless to say that the Logitech Harmony 1000 Advanced Universal Remote is handy and packed with convenient, user-friendly functions. However, an improvement on the touch screen’s sensitivity would sweeten the experience.
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by Sue on October 16, 2009
Excited about the fact that you just got your new universal remote, but only to realise that you have no idea how or where to start? Or is the user manual guide just too thick and long winded? Read on to pick up some useful tips on how to use a universal remote and breeze your way through the process.
Here are the main steps:
1. Connect your universal remote to your computer
Universal remotes usually come with a USB cable. Use the cable to connect your remote to your computer.
2. Install software
If an installation CD comes with your remote, just pop in the CD and install the software. However, if the remote doesn’t come with one, just visit the company’s website and download the software’s latest version.
3. Register an account on the website
Usually, after getting the software of program installed, you would be prompted to register yourself on the company’s website. It’s a simple task and won’t take much of your time.
4. Configure devices to your remote
More than often, a database which has quite a vast coverage on a wide variety of devices for you to choose from is provided. Just identify the company, model, and the type of your device to determine the code which will then be used to configure your remote.
Nevertheless, if you can’t find your device from the database, you just have to answer a few questions related to your device and a code will be provided for the configuration.
5. Manually configure button functions
There are times when certain buttons on your original remote cannot be found on the universal remote. Don’t panic, it is actually quite easy especially if your universal remote is a learning remote. Place the both remotes so that both of them are touching at the infrared source.
Push the learn button on the universal remote and select the destination button on the universal remote. Then press and hold on to the button on the original remote that you want the universal remote to learn. When it is done, (usually indicated by a blink of light) just try it out on your device!
The best learning remote is the Sony RM-VL600 8-Device Universal Learning Remote, which I strongly recommend for those who often update their home system.
6. Troubleshooting
If you were to encounter any problems at all when using the universal remote, there would most probably be a ‘Help’ button available. Work your way through, it is always easily solved since the questions and tips provided are closely related to the problem you are facing.
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by Sue on October 13, 2009
Yet another new member has been added to the Harmony family, Logitech presents us with Logitech Harmony 550 Universal Remote. It’s another great deal as this one is compatible with almost 3000 electronic manufacturers.
Logitech Harmony 550 Universal Remote
It can proudly boast that it is capable to replace up to fifteen remote control devices, which I find very convenient. Other than that, the universal remote has a comfy grip to it, making my system navigation much easier and comfortable as the remote fits snugly in my palm. The outer contour of the remote was stylish enough. Plus, the buttons felt good, not the rubbery kind which often annoys me.
The set up is carefully guided, however there was a part where I got stuck. Fear not though, a call to their customer service hotline and things were set back in order. This trusted brand, Logitech doesn’t fail to convince us it provides great care for its customers, something which I find appealing.
Once you got your hands on the Logitech Harmony 550 Universal Remote, you will most probably be way excited to use it, but I’ll warn you, don’t get your hopes too high that you’ll be able to complete installation in a jiffy. I spent more than an hour trying to get the installation right.
Still, the system is compatible with Windows XP, Windows Vista and Macintosh OS. Unfortunately, the product is only powered up with 4AAA batteries. It’s a shame that it doesn’t come with a rechargeable battery and dock. It would have been so much better if the feature were to be included.
Aside from it being rather slow, compared to many others, Logitech Harmony 500 Universal Remote would be ideal for people who have loads of controllers to handle lying around your couch.
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