need opinions on which one to buy....

aznquest65 · 04-03-2007, 09:10 PM

here's the deal....

just like everyone else, i'm tired of flopping through 4 remotes (tv, dvd, receiver, cable). i just started looking into the universal remotes; mainly logitech's line and sony's. the harmony 890 is quite pricy. is it really necessary to buy a $300+ remote for all these or can i get something for less than $200 (880/720?) i really like the touch screen feature sony offers but have no clue on the new, or even the good-decent models. also, which ones are rechargeable? mainly, i really need something that's affordable after buying all this stuff.

please add your inputs...
also, if you can, please give your opinion on which models would be "good enough" for the 4 components that i mentioned. basically, that's what the majority of us have anyways, right?

thanks ahead!!!

larrylockamene · 04-04-2007, 10:45 PM

Heh..i have used them all...my favorite is the 720. The layout, the color screen, and its rechargeable. The sony was my first WAAAAY back when, i think the AV 2100.....It was bulky and it wasn't very user friendly and more of a novelty than anything else. If you want to save a little look at the Harman Kardon TC 30 or the Harmony 880....I use both in different rooms and they work really well. I just like the 720's High resolution screen and button layout. If you want to check the harmonys out go here:

http://www.remotecentral.com/cgi-bin...hread.cgi?4251

Hope that helps!

Chris Gerhard · 04-05-2007, 04:07 AM

I use nothing but the inexpensive Universal Electronics (UEI) manufactured remote controls. I have several and I now use two Radio Shack 15-2104 remotes that cost me $10 each, one for my home theater and one for the bedroom. I use a very similar 15-2103 for the den. I updated the 15-2104 models using JP1 to control the equipment listed in my signature. Since the 15-2104 has long been discontinued, you will likely need to find one of the current UEI remotes such as one of the One-For-All models sold at many retail stores. I also own the JP1 programmable URC-8910, which I have two of in case my 15-2104 remotes break or I need a model with more devices since the 15-2104 is a 6-device remote.

The UEI JP1 programmable remotes are affordable, powerful and very flexible. JP1 requires connection to a PC and a learning curve but the JP1 user group should have all you need to get up to speed. Still if you don't want to go to the trouble of updating the remote by a computer connection, you should avoid the method. UEI does offer upgrades over the mail and in some cases, I believe by phone.

Chris

Chris Gerhard · 04-05-2007, 04:21 AM

I should add, I have nothing against the Harmony remote controls, just that audio video equipment can be controlled much cheaper with the UEI remotes. Here is an eBay auction for the URC-8910 I mentioned:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ONE-FOR-ALL-URC-...QQcmdZViewItem

I don't know anything about that seller, but included the auction so you could see a picture. There are several online sites that sell UEI manufactured remotes and I am not up to date on which of the current remotes should be recommended for a specific group of devices. I can say with confidence, the JP1 UEI remotes can be made to control your equipment, I just don't know how much work it will take to get there. I have my remote configurations saved on my PC and can tweak it over time easily if needed and upload to the remote. I probably shouldn't recommend JP1 for the casual user, it does take some effort to get up to speed and the method I use requires Excel software.

Chris

dabig25 · 04-06-2007, 08:38 PM

I have the 720 & love it............!

Was able to get on Eb*y, brand new for about $145 shipping included.

Took Larrylockamene's advice.

Also there's the Harman Kardon TC30. I also thought about the 880.

I just didn't like the feel of the bulkier 880.

Review's of the 720, on.......... amazon.com

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/cus...5913439&sr=8-1

aznquest65 · 04-06-2007, 09:30 PM

I was looking at the 720s and it says "battery saving rechargeable design". Now does that basically mean it's rechargeable or something else? The "design" is throwing me off. If it's rechargeable, why not just say "rechargeable"?

larrylockamene · 04-06-2007, 10:50 PM

Yes it has a lith/ion battery and rests on a recharging cradle. No more battery changing! SWEEEET. The Tc30/720/880 all have their proprietary charging cradles.

As for the 8910...I used to own 2 of them....they are decent remotes but memory is small and battery life is fair. I eventually upgraded to The Harmony's which are much more versatile. One of the reasons I went with the above remotes WAS the recharging cradle! I have left my 720 off the cradle for about a week now and still has a good charge left.

Also the "upgrading" on the 8910 is limited...they say its fully upgradeable but its not.... I found that out with My Harman Kardon Receiver. Not all functions work and you have to call Tech support and basically turn your speaker phone on and hold it up to the LCD screen of the 8910 and HOPE it accepts the upgrade tones! What a pain! Gave up on the 8910 after that.

Chris Gerhard · 04-07-2007, 03:39 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by larrylockamene

Yes it has a lith/ion battery and rests on a recharging cradle. No more battery changing! SWEEEET. The Tc30/720/880 all have their proprietary charging cradles.

As for the 8910...I used to own 2 of them....they are decent remotes but memory is small and battery life is fair. I eventually upgraded to The Harmony's which are much more versatile. One of the reasons I went with the above remotes WAS the recharging cradle! I have left my 720 off the cradle for about a week now and still has a good charge left.

Also the "upgrading" on the 8910 is limited...they say its fully upgradeable but its not.... I found that out with My Harman Kardon Receiver. Not all functions work and you have to call Tech support and basically turn your speaker phone on and hold it up to the LCD screen of the 8910 and HOPE it accepts the upgrade tones! What a pain! Gave up on the 8910 after that.

The 8910's are only memory limited if you don't use JP1. I haven't relied on UEI to update mine, I do that myself, but I believe you can mail the 8910 to UEI for update if you aren't willing to use JP1. I can see for many the Harmony remotes make the most sense, but for someone willing to use JP1, the UEI remotes are likely even more capable and for a small fraction of the price.

I want similar or identical remotes to control different systems at two locations, I actually have three complete surround systems with HD displays and the necessary source components. I am not about to spend a lot of money for a remote for each, thus I use the $10 - $20 UEI remotes and can make them work acceptably with JP1.

Chris

larrylockamene · 04-07-2007, 08:12 PM

What is JP1?

Chris Gerhard · 04-08-2007, 04:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by larrylockamene

What is JP1?

http://www.hifi-remote.com/forums/

Chris

larrylockamene · 04-08-2007, 09:37 PM

Interesting.....but looks like too much trouble to me.... I like the download and go features of the harmony.

Chris Gerhard · 04-09-2007, 04:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by larrylockamene

Interesting.....but looks like too much trouble to me.... I like the download and go features of the harmony.

Understood and I think that places you with the majority. Personally, I will save a few hundred dollars by going to the trouble and using the inexpensive JP1 remotes.

Chris

larrylockamene · 04-09-2007, 08:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chris Gerhard

Understood and I think that places you with the majority. Personally, I will save a few hundred dollars by going to the trouble and using the inexpensive JP1 remotes.

Chris

But Hey, thanks for pointing out JP1...I didn't even know about that segment for remotes! Very Interesting!

BTW...You are right about the Harmonys being expensive.... Thats why I never paid full retail on the Harmonys... I got them all for under 100 bucks each! Just have to be on ebay quite often!

Kev

grizzhcky · 04-10-2007, 12:45 PM

I have the harmony 890 and couldn't imagine life without it. its kind of like a DVR in that regard. It has been flawless since day one, and I have it controlling my tv, receiver, dvd player, sattalite, and my lights. It is super easy to update on the computer, and the backlit function is great. Also having the ability to have "Activities" like watch dvd, and it only controls those components that are needed is great. Plus you can have the top used controls on the lcd screen/button area. I was shocked at the price as well, however, after doing it, and having used several other "universal remotes", the price is well worth it. If you want a cheeper harmony, I know costco had one for approx. 150ish. good luck!

aznquest65 · 04-11-2007, 05:35 PM

Thanks for all the info...
I'm gonna start hunting the 720 hoping to get it under 100 like larrylock. I'll keep you guys posted with my review when I try this baby out.

04-03-2007, 09:10 PM	#1
aznquest65 High Definition is the definition of life. Join Date: Feb 2007 Posts: 36	need opinions on which one to buy.... here's the deal.... just like everyone else, i'm tired of flopping through 4 remotes (tv, dvd, receiver, cable). i just started looking into the universal remotes; mainly logitech's line and sony's. the harmony 890 is quite pricy. is it really necessary to buy a $300+ remote for all these or can i get something for less than $200 (880/720?) i really like the touch screen feature sony offers but have no clue on the new, or even the good-decent models. also, which ones are rechargeable? mainly, i really need something that's affordable after buying all this stuff. please add your inputs... also, if you can, please give your opinion on which models would be "good enough" for the 4 components that i mentioned. basically, that's what the majority of us have anyways, right? thanks ahead!!! __________________ Samsung 4253 (bedroom) Toshiba dvd/copier (bedroom) Comcast HD box (bedroom) Hitachi 5569 (family room) Sony Playstation 3 60GB HDMI (family room) Comcast HDMI DVR box (family room) Pioneer 516-K HTR (family room) Polk surround speakers (family room) Pioneer 2x12" subs (family room) Last edited by aznquest65; 04-03-2007 at 09:13 PM.

04-06-2007, 08:38 PM	#5
dabig25 High Definition is the definition of life. Join Date: Oct 2006 Posts: 567	I have the 720 & love it............! Was able to get on Eb*y, brand new for about $145 shipping included. Took Larrylockamene's advice. Also there's the Harman Kardon TC30. I also thought about the 880. I just didn't like the feel of the bulkier 880. Review's of the 720, on.......... amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/cus...5913439&sr=8-1 __________________ Living Rm: 55"Sony SXRD KDS55A2000 Panasonic DMP-BD80 Blu-Ray ONKYO 7.1 HT-R530 SRS Logitech 720 Remote Bedroom:32" Sharp LC-C3234U w/ Oppo OPD971H AT&T U-Verse Customer

04-06-2007, 09:30 PM	#6
aznquest65 High Definition is the definition of life. Join Date: Feb 2007 Posts: 36	I was looking at the 720s and it says "battery saving rechargeable design". Now does that basically mean it's rechargeable or something else? The "design" is throwing me off. If it's rechargeable, why not just say "rechargeable"? __________________ Samsung 4253 (bedroom) Toshiba dvd/copier (bedroom) Comcast HD box (bedroom) Hitachi 5569 (family room) Sony Playstation 3 60GB HDMI (family room) Comcast HDMI DVR box (family room) Pioneer 516-K HTR (family room) Polk surround speakers (family room) Pioneer 2x12" subs (family room)

04-06-2007, 10:50 PM	#7
larrylockamene Where's the Beer Channel? Join Date: Aug 2005 Posts: 213	Yes it has a lith/ion battery and rests on a recharging cradle. No more battery changing! SWEEEET. The Tc30/720/880 all have their proprietary charging cradles. As for the 8910...I used to own 2 of them....they are decent remotes but memory is small and battery life is fair. I eventually upgraded to The Harmony's which are much more versatile. One of the reasons I went with the above remotes WAS the recharging cradle! I have left my 720 off the cradle for about a week now and still has a good charge left. Also the "upgrading" on the 8910 is limited...they say its fully upgradeable but its not.... I found that out with My Harman Kardon Receiver. Not all functions work and you have to call Tech support and basically turn your speaker phone on and hold it up to the LCD screen of the 8910 and HOPE it accepts the upgrade tones! What a pain! Gave up on the 8910 after that. Last edited by larrylockamene; 04-06-2007 at 10:53 PM.

04-11-2007, 05:35 PM	#15
aznquest65 High Definition is the definition of life. Join Date: Feb 2007 Posts: 36	Thanks for all the info... I'm gonna start hunting the 720 hoping to get it under 100 like larrylock. I'll keep you guys posted with my review when I try this baby out. __________________ Samsung 4253 (bedroom) Toshiba dvd/copier (bedroom) Comcast HD box (bedroom) Hitachi 5569 (family room) Sony Playstation 3 60GB HDMI (family room) Comcast HDMI DVR box (family room) Pioneer 516-K HTR (family room) Polk surround speakers (family room) Pioneer 2x12" subs (family room)

04-04-2007, 10:45 PM	#2
larrylockamene Where's the Beer Channel? Join Date: Aug 2005 Posts: 213	Heh..i have used them all...my favorite is the 720. The layout, the color screen, and its rechargeable. The sony was my first WAAAAY back when, i think the AV 2100.....It was bulky and it wasn't very user friendly and more of a novelty than anything else. If you want to save a little look at the Harman Kardon TC 30 or the Harmony 880....I use both in different rooms and they work really well. I just like the 720's High resolution screen and button layout. If you want to check the harmonys out go here: http://www.remotecentral.com/cgi-bin...hread.cgi?4251 Hope that helps!

04-05-2007, 04:07 AM	#3
Chris Gerhard High Definition is the definition of life. Join Date: Nov 2005 Posts: 10,789	I use nothing but the inexpensive Universal Electronics (UEI) manufactured remote controls. I have several and I now use two Radio Shack 15-2104 remotes that cost me $10 each, one for my home theater and one for the bedroom. I use a very similar 15-2103 for the den. I updated the 15-2104 models using JP1 to control the equipment listed in my signature. Since the 15-2104 has long been discontinued, you will likely need to find one of the current UEI remotes such as one of the One-For-All models sold at many retail stores. I also own the JP1 programmable URC-8910, which I have two of in case my 15-2104 remotes break or I need a model with more devices since the 15-2104 is a 6-device remote. The UEI JP1 programmable remotes are affordable, powerful and very flexible. JP1 requires connection to a PC and a learning curve but the JP1 user group should have all you need to get up to speed. Still if you don't want to go to the trouble of updating the remote by a computer connection, you should avoid the method. UEI does offer upgrades over the mail and in some cases, I believe by phone. Chris

04-05-2007, 04:21 AM	#4
Chris Gerhard High Definition is the definition of life. Join Date: Nov 2005 Posts: 10,789	I should add, I have nothing against the Harmony remote controls, just that audio video equipment can be controlled much cheaper with the UEI remotes. Here is an eBay auction for the URC-8910 I mentioned: http://cgi.ebay.com/ONE-FOR-ALL-URC-...QQcmdZViewItem I don't know anything about that seller, but included the auction so you could see a picture. There are several online sites that sell UEI manufactured remotes and I am not up to date on which of the current remotes should be recommended for a specific group of devices. I can say with confidence, the JP1 UEI remotes can be made to control your equipment, I just don't know how much work it will take to get there. I have my remote configurations saved on my PC and can tweak it over time easily if needed and upload to the remote. I probably shouldn't recommend JP1 for the casual user, it does take some effort to get up to speed and the method I use requires Excel software. Chris

04-07-2007, 08:12 PM	#9
larrylockamene Where's the Beer Channel? Join Date: Aug 2005 Posts: 213	What is JP1?

04-08-2007, 09:37 PM	#11
larrylockamene Where's the Beer Channel? Join Date: Aug 2005 Posts: 213	Interesting.....but looks like too much trouble to me.... I like the download and go features of the harmony.

04-10-2007, 12:45 PM	#14
grizzhcky High Definition is the definition of life. Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: SLC, UT Posts: 144	I have the harmony 890 and couldn't imagine life without it. its kind of like a DVR in that regard. It has been flawless since day one, and I have it controlling my tv, receiver, dvd player, sattalite, and my lights. It is super easy to update on the computer, and the backlit function is great. Also having the ability to have "Activities" like watch dvd, and it only controls those components that are needed is great. Plus you can have the top used controls on the lcd screen/button area. I was shocked at the price as well, however, after doing it, and having used several other "universal remotes", the price is well worth it. If you want a cheeper harmony, I know costco had one for approx. 150ish. good luck!

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