Hi;

After many years of service, I'm looking to replace my MX-700.

My question is, what should I replace it with? I see that some places still list MX-850 (which looks similar) and MX-900 (which seems more updated but I see complaints about it wearing out faster than hoped. I also don't know if I would be able to get the MX-900 PC software with it or not).

So I'm wondering what to replace it with, are those options too out of date, etc.

I'm also wondering if I should just try the more freely available remotes like Harmony Ultimate instead or not.

Any suggestions?

Thanks;

Get an MX850, great remote and the MX700 file will load straight into it, I went the same route. The 850 also adds RF if you need it.

The MX-850 is still current. The benefit is that you could transfer your MX-700 program to it.

If you want something a little nicer/newer, check out the MX-890. It's a good remote, which is roughly around the same price range.



Damon

Not so sure this is true. I was told that they changed the chipset in the 850 at some point. The 700 program loads and looks like it works but won't output IR. At least that's what has happened to me. I think the 800 files still work.

I was not aware of this, but if the OP wants me to try his 700 file in my 850 I am happy to, just pm me and I will post the results.

I just sent you an MX-700 file (I hope). I'd appreciate it if you can tell if it works for the MX-850.

Thanks;

It does, sent PM

URC didn't change anything that should cause the MX-700 file not to work with a MX-850. I've done several recently.



Damon

Interesting. I've experienced it myself and called tech support and they confirmed. Not surprised...

That's really odd. Maybe I had an older batch?



Damon

I am in the same boat. I started with the MX-500 and then upgraded to the MX-700. I am satisfied with the remote, it's abilities and know how to program it. But recently I upgraded my tv and entertainment center \stand. Now, the components are pretty low to the ground and IR from the remote is an issue. I would like to upgrade to RF and thinking about picking up the MX-800 and the repeater box so that I don't have to worry about which way the remote is pointed when I use it. Is this the easier method of getting where I want to be? I assume that I can use the same files\software to program the 800. Looks like the only difference in the two remotes is the MX-800 does IR and RF.

What is the difference between the MX-800 and MX-850?

The MX-800's MRF units (MRF-200/MRF-300) weren't as good as the units designed to work with the MX-850 (MRF-260/MRF-350). They were (more) susceptible to RF interference. Also, the MX-850 has the select button on the d-pad separated from the rest, which was a design improvement.



Damon

It looks like this IR EXTENDER will do what I need.  Anyone have experience with this?  Many good reviews.

I've heard it works. As long as you don't need the features the MRF offers, there's no harm in trying it.



Damon

Curious how this works, either with adding the extender or with an RF remote that uses a IR blaster. Wouldn't this create duplicate signals for the devices that have line of sight with the remote. This would be problematic.

If I use a MX-850 with a MRF, how would I make sure the components only receive one signal? Cover the IR emitter on the remote?

My equipment is not enclosed. My issue is that if I am in the recliner with my feet up or a laptop in my lap, IR can get blocked to some of the components. I don't believe any of my components are RF. I want to have the ability to not worry about where I point the remote.