My beloved mx-700 is going downhill and needs to be replaced. I would be using this just in my HT to control 7 sources, a Pre/Pro, projector, screen, and lights. I have no need (at this time) for the RF. From a capability standpoint the mx-700 has been working fine (though variables would have occasionally been nice). I program the remote myself (with my local dealers blessing).

My dealer has the mx-780 in stock as well as the mx-850 (both at the same price), but he doesn't have much experience with the other newer URC remotes as he has always pushed the 850, which is why I am posting this question here. I really like the form factor of the mx-700, so in that respect the mx-850 would be a good choice. My biggest concern here is that URC will discontinue the mx-850 and software updates won't be available. if I did go with the mx-780, are devices transferable from my mx-700 to the mx-780?

Do you have any other suggestions from the URC line including any new remotes that may be coming out?

Thanks for any help and kind regards,

Dennis

MX 880 is a great remote but will require re programming using the CCP suite. It has variables capabilities and a color screen. It is also rf capable, and it's re chargable battery lasts a lot longer than all other remotes that I have used.

The IR database is a great tool that isn't present in the MX850. However, if you don't see yourself changing your current components for years and don't foresee adding multiple components, the MX850 will work fine. Having 10 commands/components on screen is nice and is something that you don't get with the newer remotes.

The MX780 is a nice remote but the screen is miniscule. The MX850 is a tank as well (aside from the RF chip that breaks off which it sounds like you won't be using). If you have been happy with the MX700, I would stay with it or step up to the MX980 which looks better, fits better in most hands, programs better, etc.

Thanks to both of you for your replies

Punter16, what do you mean by "The IR database is a great tool that isn't present in the MX850." I have an old copy of the MX-850 software on my PC and it has the IR database in it. Perhaps we are using different terminology?

Thanks and regards,

Dennis

With the remotes above the MX850 (ex: MX900 and above and the newer MX780), you can pull a code and drop it onto a button from the IR Database where you just have the functions without the dropping ability with the MX850. It's very convenient when you are programming different components that you might not have pre-built templates for (or when a client wants a wacky button from component A on component B's page).

I would go with the 850, or move straight up to the 980, which is an AWESOME remote IMO.

Check out my experience with the R40, which is physically the same as the 780 on the URC Consumer thread (URC-40 "My Favorite Remote").

Depending on how old, it may not work with the new 850's.

Thanks to everyone for their suggestions. My dealer suggested I try asking URC about their repair/replacement program. I emailed them earlier this week but am still waiting on a response. If that doesn't work out I will look at one of the newer remotes.

Most likely your MX700 would be out-of-warranty replaced (at a price) with a MX850, as they do not repair and they do not have any MX700's available.