Philips RC 9800i Infrared/radio Universal remote control for Audio/video components

Advantages: Completes complex source switching with a single keystroke
Disadvantages: Not much

...I have a complex AV system that has separate audio and video signal paths. This makes switching sources a nightmare that involves multiple remote controls and a lot of concentration. I have tried many programmable remotes over the years (three in the last 2 years) and this Logitech Harmony product stands head and shoulders above the rest. The set up requires a PC or MAC. I found the software excellent. Initially the software asks for the make and model numbers of the devices you want to operate. Logitech have a huge library of devices (they claim 175,000+). If your device is not there it has the ability to learn from the original R/C. Then you can set up activities listing the devices involved and the initial setting for each. For example watching a DVD may need the TV, DVD and AV amp with the TV source set to scart 2. If you need... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: universal,intelligent,affordable, really useful
Disadvantages: Don't buy it in the High Street, prices are way too high there

...Not only will the Philips Pronto intelligent remote control all audio visual eqipment, it can also automate your home without rewiring. Have a look for example at www.ptech.org.uk where you can buy it for £146 as against High Street prices (D*x*ns) of £250 So far there is nothing comparable on the market (except the same machine under the Marantz badge and more expensive.) Other good websites to see the full potential of the Pronto are www.remotecentral.com and www.pronto.philips.com. The Pronto, particularly when used with X10 devices to control electrical appliances such as lights,curtains, door locks - in fact almost anything electrical - has great benefits not only for people who love new technology but also for the elderly or infirm who have difficulty doing ordinary things about the house. Then there are plain ordinary people... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Get rid of that army of remotes you currently use
Disadvantages: A bit bulky and takes time to setup

...I have owned a Philips Pronto Remote for over 6 months now. So how good is it? The remote is physically bigger than I had expected. All the pictures you see are from above, but from the side it is wedged-shaped with a thickness at one end of about 20mm and at the other about 50mm. I bought the rechargable battery and docking station (an extra £50) but it is worth it. Changing batteries every 3 weeks is not fun. On this point, one problem that nearly everyone has is that sometimes the unit stops recharging and the battery runs itself down. I have found this is due to the contacts inside the battery housing bending down into the unit and so not making contact with the battery. worth being aware of anyway. So how does it perform? fantastic! You really need to use the PC software provided. It comes with a PC emulator, so even... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful