Paradox Designs

Universal remotes are an indespenislbe tool. They make managing a home theater system incredibly easy. Problem is, you either buy an underfeatured remote for $15-$60, or buy a remote that does what it should for $200. I have found an alternative

The basic universal remote should have the following:

• Ability to program macros, so you can turn on your tv, sound system, and DVR all at once
• Ability to allow command punch through, so you can have buttons (like volume, tv/vcr, source, etc) punch through to their proper device. This must not be limited to just the tv, for one might want to have volume control a home theater, input/source to control the tv, channel to control the tivo etc.
• Ability to learn new devices. Its always frustrating to program a remote with a new device. You have to look up a library of codes and enter something. The alternative is remotes that can learn. These are nice because you just point the other remote at the universal one while its in “Learn” mode, and then press a button (usually power). The universal remote should recieve this and add that remote to its database. Some remotes, like the logitech ones, allow you to connect to a computer. But this is an extra hassle.
• Ability to learn special buttons. We all have that nice TV with the ability to do PiP, or channel index, or change the image settings from a button. Problem is most universal remotes don’t have these buttons. A good remote should have either a set of multifunction buttons that can be used for this purpose, or a display. The function of the commands should be learned from a method similar to the method at which a remote should be programmed, see above.
• RF functionality. Very few remotes have this feature, but it is always useful. Along with an RF-IR reciever, you can control all your equipment, even when it is closed up in the cabinet. These also extend the range of the remote, so you can turn off the tv from upstairs, etc. Also, it is nice to be able to not have to point the remote at the device you wish to use.

Thats a pretty hefty list of features. You would expect it to only be in some of the higher end devices, such as the logitech harmonies, or some of the other home control devices.

I have found a better alternative. The universal companies remotes. The one i am looking at is the URC MasterControl RF30. While it isnt pretty, it is the most feature packed remote for the price i have seen. Along with the URC MF100B power blaster (The RF-IR reciver thingy), you can control your whole home theater from one device. Amazon offers these in a package, so you dont have to pay a rediculous amount.

I am still waiting for my paycheck to come in, but when it does, i will buy one of those remotes, and you can look forward to a full review.