OK, I have SWMBO convinced I should go with a PC Programmable remote. I've been "stressing" over the decision for over a week.

My current HT is only 5 devices (TV, Receiver DVD, SAT, CD). I can see it growing over the next few years...and being a woodworker, want something that can eventually support RF.

I've narrowed it down (thanks to everyone here on the Forum) to the MX-850 or MX-900. I have a couple of concerns though.

Q1: Is the lower than MX-500 IR signal strength a concern?
My equipment is 15 feet: TV (50" standard) centered, Receiver is top left of the TV, SAT and DVD are top right of the TV. My current remote requires a timed-swing of the IR window to achieve any macro, and therefore use it for discrete operation only.

Q2: What are the drawbacks of the 900 compared to the 850? Is it only the buttons being mushy vs. the 850 (or are its buttons mushy too?).

Q3: What are the drawbacks of the 850 compared to the 900? Is weight the only one.

My system is not complicated...and I understand the different "capabilities". As both will be purchased online, sight unseen, I'm interested more in useability and ergonomics

Thanks!

go for the 900. its slimmer and the program files loads a hell of a lot faster. plus it programs via usb. i quit selling the 850 which was my personal favorite remote and best selling remote. the 900 is now my personal favorite when $$$ is an issue. if the budget allows the rti t2c

900 +: better programming, quicker transfers via USB, more capabilities, compatibility with MSC-400, better RF, much brighter backlighting, good layout, lots of memory.

900 -: weaker IR, fewer LCD keys at one time, mushy keys, slightly "sharper" case design.

850 +: classic layout, lots of LCD keys at one time, nicer button feel, good layout, best of the 500-850 series.

800 -: fewer capabilities, large and heavy, slow serial communications, less memory, older product.

850's my vote. Not quite as flexible in programming, but the ergonomics make up for it.

If you plan on using the remote with a DVR, I'd definitely recommend the 900 due to the dedicated skip+ and skip- keys.

OTAHD, what about the 850 makes the rgonomics better?

Also, I've read comments that the 850 is a "brick" compared to the 900, yet on their website, the 850 is several ounces lighter than the 900...Hmmm!

The MX-850 is smoother and curvier, with no sharp corners. It's also got good tactile response. If you look at the sides and the back of the MX-900 it's got some angular features. Not necessarily bad, but if I had the choice between the MX-900 with the back design that it has or the smooth back from earlier MX models... I'd opt for the older style.

However unless there's something specific you REALLY hate about the MX-900 or REALLY like about the MX-850, I'd say go for the MX-900.

No one's mentioned the 900's longer text capacity on the LCD buttons. Seven characters vs. five doesn't seem like much, but in actual use it is HUGE. That, and the press-and-hold functionality more than make up for the fewer LCD buttons.

Nice rundown. What is this better RF?

Well, it's guaranteed to be narrow band RF for use with the MRF-260, MRF-350 etc... althogh URC has recently upgraded all of their RF models, there's no guarantee on the MX-850 which you'll end up with.

The serial port on the 850 also makes it more difficult to program with modern laptops that lack a serial port. It will work with a USB to serial adapter, but the 900 plugs in directly and is a lot faster to load.

The 850 with batteries does feel noticeably heavier than the 950 (I don't have a 900 so I can't compare directly). It feels quite a bit sturdier as well. The 850 is definitely built to last. I'm scared to drop my 950 because it feels elegant, but fragile. I'd say the weight really isn't an issue in actual use, but ability to withstand abuse (like a toddler) might be a factor in your decision.

I'd probably go for the 900 just because it is a newer design. I've also heard rumors that the 850 is being discontinued, which wouldn't surprise me since it is the last remote left from the earlier line and is effectively replaced by the 900. It would bug me to buy a new one right before it was discontinued, but that's just me. ;-)

Let us know which one you decide on!

Sean

Its getting tough. Seems the 900 will run about $50 more than the 850...putting out of my reach. I've also made the mistake of looking at the 650, and seeing its everything the 850 is -PC programming. It can be had for less than 1/2 the price of a 900.

I prefer to support Authorized vendors...but need to develop a better cost equation.

I do like the 7 characters vs. 5...I am worried about the ergonics, as I've not held either one of these. I'm going to try to visit a Magnolia store (Best Buy) this evening to feel the 850...

Anyone have used they'd like to deal on, without Ebay invoplved :)

Im not a fan of the MX-900 and 950s Watch ans Listen buttons but they are a good remote... MX-850 is still a SOLID performer in the right environment!

I am partial to the older style/design of the 650/850 remotes as well, and for the money the 650 is a bargain once programmed properly...the catch is creating a button (LCD text) layout that makes sense and is easy to use, this takes time and repetition to determine what are the key buttons for each source to be in the LCD screen.

Jeff you have mail

If you are going to expand your theater down the road, and want superior capability, go for the 900.

I had the 500 to 850 series, and it took some time for me to adapt to the MX-900, but now that I have, I much prefer it, even with the differently contoured back. In fact, when I go to pick up my 850, it just feels bulky... and, well... just wrong.

Ergonomics - I find it easy to push the LCD buttons on the right, whereas the LCD buttons on the left of the 850 are more difficult using one hand. I'm used to just reaching up and pushing the Page + or - if I need another set of codes on the LCD.

The 7-letter descriptions do make a big difference.

Love the backlighting.

Directional pad, to me, is far superior!

The SKIP + and - where they are are used more than any other buttons for me and my DVR.

I don't miss the LCD buttons on the top. I thought I would.

The MX-900 will have limited variables in the programming down the road.

The IR is still plenty strong. 15 feet away will not be a problem.

Frankly, ergonomically I find the 900 far superior to the 850, which was my "baby" for years.

IMHO.