Hello,
I just got a good deal on a Sony Str-de825 DD reciever. However it did not come with the remote. I just ordered a RM-AV2000 remote to handle those responsiblities. Will I have any problems with that becasue of the LCD screen on the original 825 remote? I will not have the original remote to "learn" off of either. Anyone who has done this (or with the 925) can you tell me if I am in for a dissapointment?

Thanks
Kevin Potter

Why don't you call Sony parts at 1-800-488-7669 and order a new remote for your receiver so you can use all the functions of the receiver. I think the RV-AV2000 will cover many of the functions, but you'll never be able to use the S.Field, Genre, Mode, and T. Tone functions without the original remote.

Doesn't sound like the deal you got was worth it.

The RM-AV2000 will indeed only cover BASIC functions without additional programming. You MUST have the original remote to use all the receiver's features. I suggest you follow Scott's advice and call Sony; a replacement remote shouldn't be too much, but you'll still need the AV2000 to consolidate all remotes into one.

The replacement remote from Sony was $160 plus shipping and tax. It is one of the LCD ones.

I will still be able to setup the soundfields and other options from the reciever itself correct? If it works like my other sony 1020, you switch to an input and it remembers all the settings?

Also, as a backup plan, I will be able to go to a stereo store a friend works at and "borrow" the 825 remote for 20 minutes or so to program the AV2000.

Thanks for the replies.

Kevin Potter

Wow, $160 - I can see why you'd rather not. Everything can still be done from the receiver, of course, but it's not too convenient. If you can borrow an 825 remote for a while, by all means do. Shouldn't take 20 minutes, though.

Now, here's an interesting tidbit about the receiver "remembering" soundfield settings for each component: For about one year (97/98 models, I believe) they didn't have that feature, at least not on the ES receivers. The soundfield stayed the same no matter what component you were in. Earlier models stored what you were last in on what component, and apparantly this years' ES receivers (98/99) do as well. I'm not sure exactly what the deal is on the 825 - only way to know will be to test.