This is technically the third XP8 I've had my hands on, one in the store and the other has been installed but isn't ready for final programming yet.

Anyway...

The system consists of four RK3 keypads and three T2C remotes, all controlling different zones.

The EQ List:
VAUX 8x8 lattis audio switcher (232)
Rotel amps
B&W speakers
One pair of Martin logans w/sub
Polk XM tuner (IR)
Marantz ST7001 Tuner (232)
Rotel CD player (IR)
2 Escient FP1 iPod docks (network connection)
D-Link switch (big one!)

I had no issues with the volume control via 232.

I used one of the "sense" inputs on the XP8 to do a source equipment OFF macro. Works beautifully!

I love that fact that I can do RS232 without the expense of a CM232 module. The 232 library is so easy to use it makes me want to use it as often as possible (where as, in the past I avoided RS232 when I could).

Programming the XP8 via the network connection (including over wireless) might be the best thing since sliced bread!

Overall I have ZERO complaints, and can't wait for the two way communication. Just so I can continue to challenge myself.

Agreed.

This is why I don't mind waiting for RTI products to come out, even thought their schedule may sometimes be off a little.

I just hope the 2-way comes out in +/- 1 month from their deadline, not +/- 1 year!

Can you elaborate on this?

Yes, please do - unless your doing something else that is not specific , yuou can do this just as easy with an RP-6?

Well the XP8 can do that macro without anything telling it too. Ala a Macro activated by an event. RP-6s can do similar things but they still need something to tell them... NOW!

The sense ports can be set to detect voltage or closure and then initiate an event (like a system macro but a separate process on the processor) based on the condition.

So... you could use a trigger output from a projector so that when you turn that projector on, the XP8 would sense the voltage from that projector and then shut the shades. I have not worked with the a time based scenario yet but I imagine an event could be based on this as well.

There are many cool processes you could simplify by doing this... screen drops or receiver power on based on trigger or video signal, watch DVD macro based on someone powering on the DVD player when they go to load a disc, Lights on automatically with motion detection... This way you would not have to include certain things in your activity macros.