Finding a Universal Remote Control
My Quest
While setting up my home theater I found myself going back and forth with my different controls. I needed one to change the channels on my cable box, another to adjust the volume on my receiver and another for my dvd player. It got frustrating. So, I tried to find a universal remote that would control all of my components. I figured a good Sony remote would do the trick because many of my components were Sony. Guess what, it didn't do the job. The worst part was it wouldn't control a Sony component!
My quest began to find a remote that would control everything but not cost me an arm and a leg. I searched for reviews of universal remotes and scanned home theater forums to find my answer. And, I did.
When all was said and done I chose the Logitech Harmony 680 Remote and I am so glad that I did. Never has it been easier to control all of my home theater components -- television, dvr cable box, dvd player, vcr and stereo receiver. I'm in heaven.
I press one button to watch television. The remote turns on my TV, cable box and stereo receiver. When I want to watch a dvd I press another button and my TV, dvd player and stereo receiver turn on. All of my controls are right on the device with a small LCD screen for some additional functions. For me there is no turning back. I will never again fumble with multiple remotes!
Now, it did take a little time to tweak my Logitech Harmony 680 Remote to control all of my components the way I wanted. Programming the remote is done through a web interface where almost every home theater component resides. If your component doesn't exist, call technical support and see if they can help. Logitech has great customer support.
You can check out user reviews at RemoteCentral.com - 680 and read posts in the Harmony Forum.
The Logitech Harmony 680 Remote might not be the choice for you. Your needs may differ from mine. Also, newer remotes have come out since I bought mine that may be a bit better. In that case check out the resources below.
Resources
- RemoteCentral.com is a great resource if you are looking for a remote. You'll find news, reviews, features and forums.
- AVS Forum has a section on Remote Controls and also has a wealth of information and posts on all aspects of having a home theater.
- CNet Reviews of Remote Controls
- Amazon Remote Controls - Great product descriptions and user reviews.
Comments
I wish! No, I just love the remote. I just sat down and pressed my button and voila! Without a Trace came up on my tv.
Something else I didn't mention in the post was I had a problem with one of the buttons on my remote about 9 months into use and I called Logitech, found out the remote was still under warranty and they sent me a new remote and told me to keep the old one as well. So, I reprogrammed the one with the problem and use it in my bedroom. Two remotes (minus a button) for the price of one!