Control your home theater with Logitech Harmony universal remote, $39.99 (after rebate)

(Credit: Logitech)

Update: I'm not entirely sure what happened with this, but the price is now $69.99 after rebate. I tried contacting TigerDirect to see why the original price disappeared so quickly, but did not get a reply. All prices that I post are accurate at the time I post them, but unfortunately sales sometimes end without warning, inventories sell out, and so on. My apologies for the confusion over this deal!

Tired of juggling remotes? Replace them all with the Logitech Harmony 550, which sold for $150 when it debuted a couple years ago, lists for $129.99 now, and is available from TigerDirect for just $39.99 (after a $30 mail-in rebate).

In case you're not familiar with them, the Harmony remotes are renowned for offering (relatively) easy programming via desktop software, which is available for both Windows and Mac systems. Just choose your home-theater hardware from an extensive database, then set up your desired activities ("Watch a movie," "Listen to music," and so on). The remote's built-in help screens walk you through any problems that may crop up (like the TV turns on but the receiver doesn't).

I've used several Harmony remotes over the years, including this one, and they've largely been outstanding. My only gripe with this model is that it doesn't use rechargeable batteries. But for 40 bucks (plus $8-9 for shipping) it's absolutely impossible to beat. Don't take my word: Check out CNET's favorable review of the Harmony 550, and be sure to browse the user reviews as well for more real-world testimony.

[hulfisdm]

The remote seems to be $99.99 before the $30 rebate, so the $69.99 price on their website already includes the rebate.

Am I missing something?

[arpbird44]

I'm having the same issue. On Tiger Direct its listed at $69.99 after rebate. I'd love to have one at $39.99!

[jmg274374]

Yeah, its not $39.99. I got excited there for a minute.

[rickbroida]

Wish I had some explanation for this. I'm still showing the $39.99 price in Firefox, but in Internet Explorer it's $69.99! Here's the proof:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/57907011@N00/2418363135/

Is anyone else seeing the $39.99 price?

[pantlessBen]

Almost 3 hours later and no additional comment or acknowledgement from the author regarding the fact that clicking his link (at least in IE7) leads to a direct contradiction to his statements. Don't you get e-mails when people comment on your article Rick? If you're getting paid for a gig that any savy college student could do better than you, at least try to stay current with what you post.

[rickbroida]

Hmmm... sorta looks like a comment right above yours.

[bktyson]

No need to get hostile, pantlessBen. I appreciate this service, although I was a little disappointed because this seemed like a SHWEET deal! I'll check back later, but I think we missed out on a TigerD goof-up!

[rickbroida]

Okay, everyone please stay tuned on this... I'm checking with TigerDirect to find out what's going on.

[pantlessBen]

Glad to see you're following up with your article! Instantly puts you ahead of the pack of overpaid, underinformed columnists that "work" for the big sites. I see no reason journalistic fundamentals can't apply to the internet, and apparently neither do you.

[pantlessBen]

Glad to see you're following up with your article! Instantly puts you ahead of the pack of overpaid, underinformed columnists that "work" for the big sites. I see no reason journalistic fundamentals can't apply to the internet, and apparently neither do you.

[CMich]

I appreciate the great insights and leads from this column and the follow through in the few (very few) situations like this when the deal doesn't match the original post. I assume pantlessBen's second post was meant to start with "I apologise for my previous hostile, impatient and utterly over-the-top comments in my earlier comment. I did not realize that 20 minutes earlier that Rick had commented and acknowledged that there was confusion between the IE display and the Firefox version. I just got carried away, but I take it all back!" Somhow, pantlessBen's apology and retraction are not showing up in my IE7 version, but I am sure it must be there. Thank you Rick for a great column and pantlessBen - chill.

[tarrantm]

What do you mean it doesn't use rechargeable batteries? Does it blow up or something if I put rechargeable AAA batteries into the unit instead of the regular ones it comes with?

Also - as much as I like the Logitech series of remotes, the backlight consistently goes dead and the USB plug tends to become loose, turning it into an expensive unlit rattle.

If ur into desktop programmable remotes, might I suggest any of the JP-1 compatible remotes from URC. Sturdier, greater flexibility and cheaper.

[rickbroida]

I'll clarify: You can use rechargeable batteries, but it doesn't come with them. Nor does it come with a charger like some of the other Harmony remotes.

[hfjacinto]

I purchased it for $90 so even at $69.99 the remote is a bargain. I highly recommend it, I would give it a 9 out of 10. The only issue is that buttons are small and it doesn't do Macros for example since I use my DVD player for both CD's and DVD's the remote won't change the sound field on the receiver from Digital Surround to Stereo automatically. I have to do the extra step. Otherwise the remote took the place of 6 remotes.


The help feature is really cool. I no longer have to spend an hour with the babysitter to show her how to watch TV or DVD's.

[rickbroida]

Quick update: Still waiting to hear back from TigerDirect about this. I'm hoping they'll extend the deal for Cheapskate readers, but we'll have to wait and see. I do apologize if this seemed misleading. The price was available when I posted it!

[mag1114]

Sorry its not 39.99 but for 49.97 + free shipping you can pick one up at pcrichard.com . I believe the store is an electronics chain on the east coast.
http://www.pcrichard.com/catalog/product.jsp?modelNo=HARMONY550&CMP=KNC-Google-Portable-Electron&s_kwcid=harmony%20550

[Evayy]

try getting a tiger direct rebate i sure haven't been successful there but had no issues from bb or frys but tiger direct and rebate * laughs*