My trusty old MX-500 is showing signs of wearing out, mostly in the oft-used volume buttons. Punch through functionality has become quite spotty, with it often losing its settings on one or more devices. Sometimes I can get the volume settings to stick by manually learning them to each device, but then they'll randomly be lost on another in time.

So, what's my best bet for a similarly satisfying remote? I love the combination of hard buttons and programmable LCD buttons, and device-based is always better than action-based, IMO. Touchscreen has no appeal to me. Is the URC R50 a good direction to go, or is there something better to consider? The R50's button layout and recessed sections seem like they would be annoying. Is it worth going with something in the older MX-8xx/MX-9xx series instead?

Dan

Also, my MX-500 has developed some signal strength issues where a direct shot at the components doesn't seem to send a strong enough signal for various functions, but bouncing it to the component stack with a RF extender does. Presumably, it's boosting the signal strength in the process.

It looks like the R40 is actually a newer version of the R50 and addresses some of the problems, so that may be worth considering. I really dislike the volume/channel placement, though. That'll feel like the garbage OEM and universal remotes that are a block of indistinguishable buttons to the touch.

I also dislike the R40/50's change to only six LCD buttons per page, even if more pages are available. The ten per of the MX-500 allows a lot of flexibility for grouping command. That doesn't seem like progress...

Dan

I started with an MX500, and loved it but found editing macros a pain so went to the MX850, that is virtually the same, but with full pc editing, and the software is in the public domain, You can often pick them up for £30 almost new on ebay.

I don't use macros, so that isn't really an issue for me. The reviews of software glitches on the MX-850 (and R40) have me a bit concerned about going that route, given the company's support view toward non-installers. You haven't had a problem with that, though? And the software requires a serial port connection, right?

Dan

Never had a software glitch in 6 years. Yes you need a serial port, but you can also use a USB/Serial adaptor, just check on the forums as to which make as not all work, but the ones that do are perfect, mine cost £10 from Amazon.


[Link: remotecentral.com]

Oh, that's good to know. I got the impression from reviews that the serial connection was somehow an important part of its functionality.

Dan

Its vital, but a USB to serial adaptor lets you use it with a PC with no serial port.

After MX500 and many other brands in between, URC RF20 is the current favourite. It's functionally slicker than R40 because screen does not have to be alight (ok you don't use 'em but any macros are noticeably quicker too). No colour but it does RF well. Smaller and more memory than MX500 and can also use rechargeable batteries.