Harmony One

Since setting up my home to be based on Vista Media Center and using Media Center Extenders (and getting rid of the horrible Comcast DVR), I've been quite happy with it so far (although it's not perfect and requires a significant up front cost). I was using the URC (Universal Remote Control, which is the brand name) MX-850 remote. At the time I purchased the remote, it was one of the best bang for the buck in terms of programmability and mixing hard buttons with a dynamic button system (LCD screen). However, the MX-850 wasn't capable of learning the Extender IR codes (due to Extenders using "toggle codes"). Since I don't like having more than one remote (and the remote that came with the Extender was neither programmable nor responsive), I had to find a new universal remote.

After doing some research on RemoteCentral.com and AvsForum.com, I settled on the Harmony One.



The fact that I was able to get one heavily discounted was an added bonus. I just received it today and having only played with it for a few hours, I'm quite happy with it and would recommend it.

Pros:
1. nice hard button layout
2. ergonomic
3. touch screen on top for uncommon buttons
4. Windows app for programming the thing knows lots of devices
5. rechargeable batteries with nice charging station
6. not too expensive (with discount)
7. motion sensor for turning on touch screen and backlight

Cons:
1. remote is tailored for technophobes so it's not easy to do complicated macros, but for newbies, the wizard style programming interface is really easy
2. web based programming tool is slow
3. doesn't seem to be a way to export devices I've learned or import devices others have created
4. can't use remote while in cradle

Rumor is that a new version of the Harmony One (Two?) is coming this year that includes RF and potentially Z-Wave support.