Get a Logitech Harmony One remote for $150
CNET calls the Logitech Harmony One "arguably the best consumer remote control currently available," and I agree. I've owned one for nearly two years, and it's without a doubt my favorite remote ever.
Alas, Logitech still sells it for $249, same as when it debuted in early 2008. But if you're willing to go the refurb route, you can get the Harmony One for $149.99 shipped from CompUSA.
For those not familiar with the Harmony line, its claim to fame is a simple, Web-based interface for setting up your devices, programming "activities" (a.k.a. macros), and so on.
This particular model features a color touch screen, a perfect button layout, and a docking station for keeping its rechargeable battery topped off.
CNET's review (and the above video) should tell you everything you need to know about the Harmony One. For what it's worth, a handful of CompUSA customers rated it 5 stars on average, while some 800 Amazon buyers rated it 4.5 stars. Needless to say, it's a winner.
Because it's a refurb, the warranty expires after 90 days. I have no problem with that; usually, a product like this either works or it doesn't. My 2-year-old One has been dropped, kicked, abused by children, and more, and it's still plugging along just fine.
Thus, if you're in the market for the ultimate universal remote, this is the best deal I've seen yet. (If you know of a better one, be sure to mention it in the comments!)
Rick Broida, a technology writer for nearly 20 years, is the author of more than a dozen books. In addition to writing CNET's The Cheapskate blog, he oversees BNET's Business Hacks. Rick is a member of the CNET Blog Network and is not an employee of CBS Interactive. Disclosure. Deals found on The Cheapskate are subject to availability, expiration, and other terms determined by sellers. Follow Rick on Twitter at cheapskateblog. 
I have a Sunwave SRC-3000b which is fully touch LCD (no buttons). It is fully trainable, and also includes a programming port 1/8" jack socket, but no connector or instructions, so it may only be a factory setup feature. It allows 8 individual devices, and has 2 pages for each device, "button" layout and labels automatically change with each device, and it is possible to customize by turning extra buttons "on" or unused ones "off", and you can also vary which of the labels is displayed on that "button". It sits by itself with a blank screen and activates when you pick it up. If it's dark, it also illuminates a blue background. Runs on 3 * AAA batteries. I'm not sure how long it retains its "training" if left with flat batteries, but it certainly retains long enough for a battery change.
There is a move towards "blue tooth" RF controllers, but that would mean that a "Universal" remote would have to learn multiple frequencies as well as the control signals. As far as directionality is concerned, my Sunwave emits a bright enough signal that I don't have to be highly accurate in pointing it. It's quite robust, but being a full-faced LCD, I don't think it would be a great idea to have a child step on it.
IR = Infra red
I have my compnonets in a cabinet, out of sight and use the Harmony 890 with RF control. No line of sight is needed to control the devices, since a radio frequency is used.
With an IR remote, you need to have line of sight to the devices and must point the remote (and keep it pointed) at the devices when attempting to operate them.
Typically a remote that supports RF will have an RF receiver with a IR repeater. The receiver will pick up the RF signal and repeat it as an IR signal. This is particularly useful if the device you wish to control is hidden or in another room.
Short answer. If your AV device uses RF for its remote your Harmony can't control it (without an expensive dongle that converts IR to RF). Simple example. The PS3 uses Blutooth for it's remote. Thats RF. I use a PS3 as my main media player. I'm stuck until these remotes support RF.
On the other hand, I have 3 more months of warranty. :)
Nevertheless, I enjoy reading this blog daily. Thanks!
There are now adapters for the Harmony remotes that will allow them to work with the PS3.
So, when it works it works fine. When something messes up, it's a nightmare!
--Larry
(http://news.cnet.com/8301-13845_3-10370692-58.html) was back yesterday afternoon, but already gone.
- by COMMANDERMJB October 15, 2009 8:02 PM PDT
- I like the Product but would
- Like this Reply to this comment
-
(32 Comments)like to see a grandprize offered at this sight once in a while so we can get more readers...
Thanks,
Mike
COMMANDERMJB