Back in 2002 or so, I bought a Sony RM-VL900 universal learning remote. I've had great luck with it, but as I'm starting to upgrade my components with items that aren't likely to be in its circa 2000 database, I'm looking at options.

I bought a Harmony Remote from Sam's Club last spring. (It might have been the 628). I had a very difficult time getting it to learn about my devices. Logitech support wasn't very supportive. I ended up returning it in frustration and defeat.

I still really like the "idea" of the Harmony. I wish the Web interface were better (maybe it is better now -- is it?) From looking at this forum, it appears to be very active, and there are clearly some experts out there.

Should I try the Harmony again?

The devices I'll be controlling will be:

Sony STR-DE885 Receiver
Panasonic TH-42PX600U Plasma TV
Oppo Digital DV-970HD DVD Player
DirecTV HR10-250 DVR/Sat. Receiver
An older Sony VCR

I don't need every feature to be available on the universal remotes. If the idea works, I will likely buy two remotes, and have them have identical configurations so that one is within easy reach anywhere in the room. The device needs to be as solid and reliable as the VL900 has been.

Thoughts and suggestions? Should I try the Harmony, or stick with the Sony VL900 (or maybe try the newer VL600). I asked this in the Sony forum as well. Just looking for input.

Thanks!

Just a quick thought before I start: Why not try it? if you dont like it the worst case scenario is to take it back for exchange / refund.

The setup has improved over the past year+.

First off everything you mentioned is supported. Dont know about the VCR as the model number was not mentioned. However their support for legacy sony vcrs is great. As I have one that I bought in 97. Model SLV775HF. Since then I lost the original remote. All of the functions are available on the harmony remote.

As you indicated that you would like to have 2 remotes in your room, one advantage you'll have with harmony (at least in comparison to the sony you mentioned) is that you will only have to configure devices once.

I have to admit although I have never called their support, most of the time (95%+) of what I have heard has been positive experience in calling into support.

Good to hear!


My VCR is a Sony SLV-N71. I realize that I've probably only used it twice in the last year.

I've had mine for about 16 months. Just a few weeks ago I upgraded my receiver. I also have a new computer since then so I had to download the most recent software. I couldn't believe the improvement.

Putting in the new receiver and integrating with all of my activities was a snap.

No reason not to try one. But be aware that using 2 in the same room will cause issues since each remote will be keeping track of the status of each device. e.g. If you select an activity on remote 1, then go to remote 2 you'll have to select the activity again on remote 2 which will try to turn all the devices on and set the right inputs. You could select the activity while blocking the IR emitter but you'll have to do the same thing when turning things off or selecting another activity. If your equipment uses discretes for everything (power and inputs) then you can get away with resending the activity commands but not with toggles.

The software now has a local GUI that replaces the browser interface (but you can still use the website interface). It is a little better but it still needs the internet connection and still stores the configuration in the harmony database.

Unless I spend five hours and give up in frustration. :)


I understand that issue and accept that if on remote 1 I tell it to watch a movie, that I'll have to do the same on remote 2, if I want to use remote 2 to control the DVD player, for example. On my current set up with the Sony VL900's, the commands are sent to change inputs, etc, but since they are already in place, they are ignored.

Currently, I don't have any power on or off commands as part of my activity switching -- I hope I can do the same on the Harmony's.


I forgot to mention that my desired OS is Mac OS X. Do they have a Mac app, or am I limited to either using the Web interface, or running the Windows app via Parallels (virtual environment...)


Thanks for the info.

John

Yeah but you have us to help


Yes there is the ability to disable the power toggle on components. Its a great feature for my PS2, when I want to pause a game for an hour or so then go back to the game.


Your in luck: (note this is for the 550 in which I have)

[Link: logitech.com]

System Requirements:

IBM® or compatible PC:
• Windows® 98SE, 2000, Me, XP
• USB port
• CD-ROM drive
• Internet access

Macintosh® system:
• Mac® OS X 10.2 or later
• USB port
• CD-ROM drive
• Internet access


No problem

Thanks I think I'll be taking you (all) up on the offer!