Hey,

I've had my Pronto for over two years now (the original Pronto model) and have grown tired of it (gasp!). My main complaint is the lack of more hard buttons; the infinitely customizable screen is cool (and I love futzing with it), but using the touchscreen isn't always that easy.

So, primarily because I'm a gadget addict, I was intrigued by the new Harmony remote -- largely because of the big buttons and it's reported ease of use.

I realize these are two very different beasts, but I'm curious if anyone has used both the Pronto and the Harmony and how they compare from a daily use standpoint...

Thanks!

Just got a Harmony and tried using it this weekend (set it up on Friday during lunch, no USB at home). It works well, but like you said it is very different. I think it is worth it just for the guide (if nothing else). It fits nicely in your hand and it is well designed. I have not started editing in XML, but I should start that soon. Also when my sisters and their boyfriends saw the remote this week end they wanted one.

And since you are a gadget addict go for it.

I like you have had my original Pronto since the day I could get one. I purchased the Harmony and I like it alot. It is much more wife and babysitter friendly and controls everything the Pronto did. Much less button pressing and paging up and down as with the Pronto. It took me less time to setup than the Pronto as well.

The setup is very intuitive on the web site but expects some familiarity with Wizards and so forth plus it really helps to have a broadband connection. There is quite a bit of help on the web site on how to do things outside of the wizards just spend a little time looking in the different help areas and faqs. Also if you just can't figure something out just email Customer Support as they are very responsive and helpful.

I have modified the XML to add a state (Harmony remembers state of the device) such as on a TV for selecting a widescreen mode such as Standard-Widescreen-Full. For instance when you select Watch a DVD it sets my receiver for the DVD input selects the video input on the TV and selects FULL for the widescreen mode. Then when selecting TV it sets the receiver to TV input and sets the Widescreen for this mode.

When it comes to non-everyday settings such as TV Contrast, Brightness, etc. you have to go fairly deep into the menus to get to them. This where the Pronto has a little advantage or of course the regular remote.

The TV/SAT/Cable listings are very cool and I use them more than anything else. It's great to have these in the palm of your hand. Just select the show and it tunes to the proper station. Let us know what you think if you get one.

I'm about ready to make the plunge and get a Harmony. Just feeling a little guilty, since the Pronto cost a ton and is, ostensibly, the "best" remote available. I've just found the touch screen, while pretty and packed with potential,not all that practical with day-to-day use...

Am I correct in understanding that it's only availble through the manufacturer's website?

No Darreth, there is one other place to get the remote, avsmarts.com, there is a link on this page to it. That's where I ordered mine. Ordered before the deadline and it shipped the same day. I think you will be pleased with the remote.

I haven't tried avsmarts.com but I have had trouble getting it from the company because they ship from Canada to the US, and my order has been stuck in customs for two and a half weeks. Harmony (the company) doesn't know when I will get it either. There is no estimated delivery date right now.

My suggestions would be to try avsmarts.com if you are in the US to avoid customs as avsmarts.com seems to ship from within the US.

I have had the original Pronto for 1.5 years and I thought many of the same thoughts, lack of hard buttons, touch screen is dim, etc. I have tried the Harmony and while I am sure it could be great, I just am not getting the XML and it seesm to require a lot fo mods. I went back to my Pronto and have improved my config and it is working very well. Maybe it is just me and XML? Actually - the lack of practicle information is my biggest beef.

I agree.
The basic initial setup isn't too bad.
But additional customization, which EVERYONE will want (change menus, customize button functions) is exceedingly confusing and frustrating!
I regret not just getting the newer Sony commander.