Bluedo.com and surfremote.com both advertise the MX-500 bundled with the One For All URC-8811. Is it worth it to get both or can I do enough macros (for instance, turn TV/DVD/receiver on/off) without the extra remote and cable? And if I get the One For All, how difficult is it to synch up the two and learn to use JB1?

Any advice would be appreciated!

If all you want to do is duplicate the functions of your existing remotes, you don't need the 8811 or JP1. However, if you want to create bullet-proof macros that will operate smoothly no matter what state your equipment is in, then having another remote to learn discrete codes from is the cheapest way to achieve this.

I usually recommend to those who call that if they're not sure that they want/need the package, just get the MX-500 and you can always add either an 8811 or Radio Shack remote later on. You can also get a JP1 cable (or make your own) for $18 delivered if you don't get all you need from advanced codes.

IRClone gives you the ultimate in flexibility with your MX-500, but it costs almost as much as the MX-500 itself.

Mike
www.SurfRemote.com

I'm hardly an expert, actually a remote newbie, but I think the answer also depends on the euipment you have. For example, I found just about all the discrete codes available for my Denon receiver (which I think is the key piece), and was fortunate to have sitting around an old One-For-All remote on which I could program discretes and then learn these to the MX-500. In my situation, I don't know how much more I could have gotten I could have gotten using a cable and PC, although it might have simplified the process and shortened my learning curve.