Universal Remote Control MX-850 IR/RF Aeros Remote Control | List Price: $399.99
Discount Price: $290.00
|
Brand: Universal
Binding: Electronics
Warranty: 1 year warranty
Features: - 20 different components can be programmed with up to 4 pages of LCD screens and 33 buttons each
- Memory offers up to 912 potential macros with up to 190 steps each
- Smart memory back-up feature saves programmed memory for up to 10 years
- Windows-based PC software contains over 1500 different brand/model code sets, and enables custom program design
- Expanded RF capabilities with an extended range up to 100', RF routing to allow independent control over an array of identical components
Great remote! [Posted on 2008-12-29]
I've owned my remote for probably 5+ years. A year ago, I was able to purchase another one from a stereo store that was going out of business and gave that to my Father (programmed by me of course). Unit looks brand new still. (As one user said, the remote is a little old-school but that's great because it is reliable.)
According to the website, these are targeted to the "professional" which is why the programming software is hard to use and why you have to have a special registration code to get the updated IR databases. However, once you create a program, the end-user has a very simple and pleasant interface.
Regarding the programming and IR updates, I found it was just as easy to create my own database by learning the new commands.
I don't recommend you attempt to program this remote unless you are pretty savvy with the computer.
I also found you could re-register your remote and re-download the latest IR database.
Battery life is VERY long - months. I can tell when the batteries are low because the macro's stop working reliably. (There is an indicator on the display but I never look at my display so I never see it).
The beautiful thing about a universal remote is that my fingers have learned how to use the remote. So, even tho I change components (like I got a new DVD player a while back), I can still run it without having to re-learn where all the buttons are.
Definitely spring for the RF module, you won't regret it. Don't be disturbed by the price. You will use this for many years - that's right! What electronic device do you have that you can say that about! So, think in terms of using this remote for 10+ years. When you amortize it over that time frame, the cost is cheap. And, like I said, you won't regret it!
MX-850 Universal Remote [Posted on 2009-01-08]
This is a fantastic piece of equipment. All my A/V gear is behind a wall and out of sight but I still control everything with this remote. This one is a replacement for one I have owned since 2005 that accidentally took a swim.
This might not be a long review... [Posted on 2009-02-17]
but I've had this remote for a few months now and am still enjoying it. Setting up the macros (push one button to activate multiple devices) was a pain in the rear, but everything else was pretty simple to figure out. Definitely give yourself a few days to program and get used to it. I really like how they distributed the weight and that the back lighting is unobtrusive. Enjoy!
Great Remote but not for everyone [Posted on 2009-04-01]
A few years ago I hired a local AV firm to install my new plasma, DVD and surround sound system. They convinced me that I needed a universal remote to make using the system easier. The cost of what they were proposing (the Universal 850 plus the base station and the labor to program it) was not cheap - nearly $1,000 if I recall correctly.
But it was so worth it!
Being able to hit one, pre-programed button to turn on the TV, Cable box and the surround sound receiver or another for the TV, DVD and sound, etc is irreplaceable. And the fact that it works through the cabinet doors is terrific.
Even my young children know how to use the device (don't bother with the sidekick unless you want 2 or 3 year olds using a remote). However, the down side to young kids is that the remote has been dropped countless times. Its been very durable as its a well made device, but recently the drops have been taking a toll. The volume and some other buttons were becoming virtually unresponsive.
So I decided I needed to get a replacement 850 which led me to Amazon. After reading the reviews I was very nervous about buying the 850 on my own and trying to program it. But, for my situation, it was very, very easy.
All I did was go to the Universal Remote website and register so I could download their programming software. It installed on my Windows PC without a hitch. I then went to Radio Shack and purchased the Serial to USB cable. Then all I had to do was connect my old remote, upload the configuration, connect my new remote hit download and viola - everything was there. All the macros and commands, and it works perfectly again.
So if you already have an 850 with all the programming on it, but it needs to be replaced you have two options: Call a local AV firm or buy it online and do the programming yourself. The later option will save you a few hundred dollars.
Keep in mind that if I was a consumer without an existing universal remote I would consider more consumer-friendly models before the 850. However, if you are willing to spend the time learning the 850 software, then this is a great remote.
Be prepared to lose the volume control [Posted on 2009-05-24]
I have had this product for 3 years and now the volume control is gone. On top of the programming being a trial, don't the engineers know that the volume control is the most used button on the control? Apparently not. Now I have to use the tuner remote becuz I hate the idea of spending $400 just to increase the volume.
Click here for more details and discount information...
|
){kind=link}