Logitech Harmony One Advanced Universal Remote Reviews

• A slick rechargeable touchscreen remote from Logitech

  
  By A3W2UTN0BC4ZKD on 2008-01-26
  Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R3SLVZLG7R7EK7 A video review of the Logitech Harmony One, focusing on a few fun features like the motion sensor, rechargeability (with included docking station), and ability to replace 5 of our other remotes, including the specialized Tivo remote. Easy to program and easy to use touch screen makes this a very cool remote control.
  
  

• Great remote with lots of 1st rev issues

  
  By A35Z6A2J7CFW2 on 2008-02-18
  If you owned the 880 (or 890) the 'One' is a welcome addition. In fact, the remote is better laid out, the screen and feel are almost flawless, the buttons are well lit.
  The problems come with this being early in the game: The commands and mismatches the remote has are still many; while the 880 controls your system without any issues, the One had 2 mismaps for a VSX-94 receiver, has too short IR bursts for HL-R Samsung TV models, cannot learn short-burst IR (for example the Nyko remote for the PS3 - which the 880 has NO problems with).
  Logitech 2nd level support for Harmony is very good, and usually can help - making changes on your behalf that the software has no access to. But, wait half a year and you hopefully would not have those headaches.
  
  Also, important to note, the IR field of vision is MUCH MORE NARROW than the 880 and 890; while the former could be pointed almost anywhere and the IR signal would hit your component at any angle, the One has issues with some equipment with recessed IR receivers - such as a lot of receivers by Denon and Pioneer. This is too bad, as, again, the 880 and 890 (as well as Sony AR-3000) have IRs shooting in a much broader fashion.
  
  The One could easily be the best remote Harmony/Logitech have ever made. It needs a rev 2 to make it so, I am afraid.
  
  

• The couch potato's Excalibur

  
  By A2X7NBUETXC19E on 2008-01-30
  Using Logitech's Harmony One universal remote control, I can't help but hear Queen's "I'm In Love With My Car" playing in my head. That may be overstating the appeal of this device a bit, but not by much. I haven't been this impressed with a technological gadget since the Flip video camera. The concept of a universal remote control that replaces the various "factory" remotes that come with most home entertainment devices isn't new, but Logitech takes it to a whole new level with this device.
  
  The Harmony One remote includes the remote control unit, a rechargeable battery, charging station with power adapter, USB cable, and a CD that is used to program the device. Setup is extremely user-friendly. Once you have the software installed, you're asked to provide the make and models of the devices you want to control, as well as a few questions on how those devices are used. The software then programs the remote accordingly. The total setup time is roughly 30 minutes, and doesn't require any significant computer skills.
  
  In addition to providing basic operational control over a huge array of audio/video components released since roughly the dawn of time (the dawn of remotes at least), the setup process programs key actions that are real time savers. Instead of using my TV remote to switch the set to Video 3 and then turning on the DVD player to watch a DVD, I just touch the "Play a DVD" button and the remote makes it happen. How cool is that? Right now I have a TV, DVD player, stereo, and iPod home unit controlled by the remote, and as I add or upgrade components, I can use the software to update the remote accordingly.
  
  The remote's design is a wonder all by itself. In addition to the usual array of buttons you expect to find on a universal remote, the Harmony One also boasts a touch screen that works well beyond expectations. The ergonomic design makes the device fit perfectly in your hand, with your thumb resting right near the most utilized buttons.
  
  If you've gone out of your way to make sure you have the best possible home audio and video system, you really need to invest in this uber-cool remote control. It's the perfect accessory for the flat-screen/HD/Blu-Ray era.
  
  UPDATE: I recently upgraded my TV and DVD player, and updating the remote software took less than 10 minutes, including a bit of very user-friendly troubleshooting when things didn't work perfectly the first time. That's one more great feature of this ultimate remote control.
  
  

• Fantastic Remote: Simple to Program, Even Easier to Use!

  
  By A23ZNGL704AW7O on 2008-02-04
  A year ago, I purchased the Logitech Harmony 880 Advanced Universal Remote Control and have liked it so much that I had determined to buy a second remote this year in order to have one upstairs and one downstairs. Although both the Harmony 880 and the new Harmony One each control many devices (I currently have 14 devices configured on each), it became tiresome to have to go to a different floor of the house to grab the remote for the other level. Then Amazon Vine received the Harmony One remote from Logitech for review, and I was thrilled to be able to review it.
  
  The Harmony 880 and the Harmony One are very similar in functionality and programming. Both are programmed using a USB interface to your PC and the Logitech Harmony Remote Software. Both can handle multiple devices with considerable ease, allowing for most users to configure every remote-controlled device in their home. Both remotes can `learn' from the original remote if you are not able to configure a device using the model number. Both of these remotes enjoy a rechargeable dock.
  
  Where the significant improvements are in the Harmony One over the Harmony 880 are the feel of the device in the hand, the improved backlit hard buttons that are easy to see in the dark, and a dock that cradles the remote much better (making it more difficult for your cat to knock the remote out of the dock! LOL). Also, with significant spaces between buttons on the Harmony One, it is easier to feel your way around the remote without looking.
  
  If you are replacing an older Harmony remote, the Logitech Harmony software offers the opportunity to `replace' the currently configured device with the newer device, transferring your device setup for all the TVs, VCRs, DVRs, etc. to the new remote with little effort. As I did not want to replace, but add a new remote, I didn't use this function myself.
  
  For those of us who are adding a new remote, I was a bit disappointed in the Harmony Remote software. You cannot have multiple remotes under one Logitech account. Instead, you must set up a separate ID for each remote. Many people use the same ID for most computer programs and online sites requiring one, and this requirement may cause some trouble for us in the future. I can easily imagine that the next time I need to program this remote I may have forgotten the ID I used to set it up with. While I keep pretty good track of my IDs and passwords, it will be hard to remember a year from now that I had to use a non-standard ID for this one. I would like to see the software revised to allow for multiple remotes in one account, and the ability to copy configurations from one to another.
  
  On the bright side, the software really does make it easy to configure your televisions, Tivos, DVD players and more. If you have the model number of that device, this is the simplest method of configuring it, and with an extensive database of model numbers - including some very old tvs and the like (judging by my own setup), it is a pretty sure-fire way to set up your Harmony One Remote quickly and easily.
  
  Of course, there are times when you simply cannot find the model number for a device. My bedroom television does not have a model number anywhere that I can find it. So, I used the `learn' function on the Harmony One Remote to teach the Logitech device the correct codes, using my original remote from the television. Even if you haven't the original remote, the remotes are still easy to configure using the brand name and the device type (i.e. Sharp TV) in the Harmony software.
  
  Programming custom buttons for devices is very easy. I like to control the volume on my television while the remote is in Tivo mode, so I simply used the TV remote to program the volume buttons on the Harmony One Remote for the specific TV I will use. This procedure is as simple as lining up the two remotes and clicking the button you are configuring, then letting the Logitech software do its magic!
  
  So far, I have configured a variety of devices with this remote easily: TVs, TiVos, DVD players, VCR, Cable Boxes, and an A/V receiver. None were problematic, and all work very well. I highly recommend the Harmony One Remote for anyone who wants to combine all their remotes to one and prefers ease of configuring. Oh, and it looks pretty sharp, too. Especially with my own photographs downloaded to run a pretty screensaver!
  
  

• Good but not perfect

  
  By A91W4Q9O8NR0B on 2008-01-30
  I've owned this remote control for a little over a week. Previously I had a Harmony 880, which had A LOT to be desired. The Harmony One is a big improvement, but certainly not perfect. The new sculpted hard buttons are great. Layout is logical, all are backlit, and feels well designed.
  
  I do, though, have a number of complaints about the Harmony One
  
  1) The touchscreen is a real pain to use. I frequently hit the wrong button and end up on a different screen or sending the wrong IR command. I really wish Logitech would have kept the hard buttons for LCD control. This feature sounds sexy, but falls flat in reality. Big thumbs down on this one.
  
  2) Upgrading from my 880 LOST all custom button assignments and actions. The software tells you this is going to happen, but is not obvious. So I had to spend hours re-creating all my button assignments. Tech support was unable to help me.
  
  3) The LCD only shows three activities and six device buttons on the screen. The 880 shows eight of each, which made for much less button pushing. Although trying to hit eight soft buttons on the touch-screen would be nearly impossible, so I see why they cut it down to six.
  
  4) No new major software innovations. They ship 7.4, which is a very minor upgrade to prior releases.
  
  5) No dedicated colored hard buttons (yellow, blue, green, red). Yes you can assign these to soft keys, but with six soft keys per screen it makes it that much harder to access all of your common functions without excessive button pushing.
  
  6) The high-gloss finish shows lots of fingerprints. They include a cloth to clean the remote. But the instant you pick it up after a cleaning, it's smudged again. A matte black finish would have been much more practical.
  
  Essentially you are only buying a better hard button layout and not much else. If you already own a Harmony or other universal remote and are happy with it, I would not "upgrade".
  
  
• In Harmony w/My Home Theater
  By A2W9I628I6SE1U on 2008-02-13
  The Harmony One came wonderfully packaged, in a special box inside what looks like Easter egg basket grass. Classy presentation, if not too environmentally friendly. But you are getting a big ticket item so it seems appropriate.
  
  Everything was pretty easy to figure out right out of the box, until I tried connecting the remote after the software installation. I made a wrong click and was not able to get my computer to see the remote. I tried it again on another computer with the same results. So far, not so intuitive. I contacted customer support and a day later I got an email that helped me solve the issue.
  
  Do yourself a favor and go right to their website and download the latest version of the software, and when setting up, do not click YES to the question, "Are you setting up a Logitech Harmony 1000 Advanced Universal Remote?" It will save you A LOT of hassle.
  
  After that, installation and setup went fairly smoothly. I had a hard time determining the exact model # of my Samsung TV, but the software walked me through it and we got it worked out. I have a mini-system, TV, DVD and VHS player as my preset devices.
  
  After the initial install, all went smoothly. Amazingly, it worked flawlessly from the get go! To watch a DVD, I press that option and it turns on both my DVD player and TV, and sets the TV to the proper input. Press another button and it shuts them all back off. So easy! All of the other functions are working too. I even set up a photo slideshow of family snapshots to play in the touchscreen LCD -- cool! This is one sleek looking and impressive piece of technology. A bit pricey, but I have to say you get what you pay for. I have yet to use a universal remote that worked so well, was easy to set up with ALL of my equipment, and that looked so good doing it. Before this, my latest remote was a DirecTV RC64 Universal RF Remote Control, and oh, what an improvement.
  
  I have yet to figure out how to set it up to also play DVDs from my mini-system, but I am sure that will come in time. There are a lot of features I have yet to explore. The slick recharging stand is nice too -- I always know where it is when I am not using it. As mentioned by others, it is motion sensitive and shuts off after not being used for a while. Pick it up, and it comes right back to life. Neat!
  
  All in all, I would recommend this to anyone who doesn't mind the price tag. It is an impressive bit of technology that will not be obsolete anytime soon due to the ability to update itself online. If you don't need RF functionality, then this is the ALL-IN-ONE for you!
  
  
• Logitech goes radical with design, but forgets to do the same with the inside!
  By A14966F0OZRUZ on 2008-01-06
  The Logitech Harmony remote line has come far in the past few years and there have been some great ones and some not so great ones (the 1000 for example). I have been using the 890 now for almost a year and like the options but the user interface can be annoying, especially trying to control Z-Wave modules at times.
  
  The Harmony ONE has improved on all the short comings of past models by having raised buttons and a touchscreen. The LCD screen is fantastic and very clear. Battery life is stronger too than previous models. The programming process is the same as past models, and if you have gone through it, you have little to worry about. For newbies; the remote is programmed using a USB cable on your Mac or PC through a Java program that accesses Logitech's huge library of product codes via an internet connection. The whole process is quite user friendly.
  
  Overall, its a good addition but short of a hit by Logitech. It's a shame that they have excluded RF from this model. I think perhaps this is not really meant to replace the 890 just yet. I hope their next revision might include RF/Z-Wave in addition to the elusive Bluetooth for PS3 owners.
  
  If you don't want RF/Z-Wave support, this is a good remote, but if you want the master remote for everything, hang on to the 890.
  
  
• Great device
  By A2UKE7GIVC7XFW on 2008-01-23
  Just got it today and set it up in about 15-20 minutes. This is not a hard device to set up, the entire process basically consists of you inputting the model number(s) of the electronic devices you want to control. In my case I put in the TV, DVD, and Cable Box. After this is done you set up which channel the TV needs to be tuned to in order for the Cable Box to work and the same for the DVD. Why this happens is because the remote control will turn on both the TV and Cable Box/DVD when you hit the relevant button, which is somewhat nice as you don't have to go from one remote to another or press more than one button (I know, how lazy can you be to press another button!). The only 'minus', and for these two reasons I wanted to give the remote 4 stars, is the fact that to adjust any little thing, for example changing the channel the TV has to be tuned to from 3 to say 4, takes 2-3 minutes, while the remote is connected via USB to the computer and of course the price is a bit high, in my opinion. BUT, and this is why I still gave this remote 5 stars, I would say the best part about this universal remote control is that it is ALL that you will need for years to come. Switching cable providers? No problem, just find the new provider from the pull down menu when you go to adjust the remote control, put in a new model number, and you're set. Switching TV's? Same procedure, for over a dozen different devices, this is ALL that you'll need! So, perhaps in the end $250 for one remote is a good deal after all.
  
  And it is a great remote control, you can easily switch between devices, there isn't any 'lag' that I noticed when switching the channels on my cable box, and it's pretty much eliminated 2 remote controls for me. It can control up to 15 different devices but I don't yet have an entertainment system for my TV so it'll have to settle for 3 at the moment.
  
  So, bottom line; easy to set up, easy to adjust, easy to switch between devices, works as it should, no problems thus far!
  
  Edit: I've now also hooked up my Z-5500 Surround Sound Speaker System from my computer and the remote works perfectly with it!
  
  
• Logitech's Best Harmony Yet...But Could Still Be Better
  By A1ZM846Y7AUYD on 2008-02-02
  The introduction of the new Logitech Harmony One Advanced Universal Remote has really raised some eyebrows and produced a lot of chatter in the electronics gadget market. Once you see this remote and try it for yourself you will understand what all the buzz is about!
  
  The Harmony line of universal remotes has become the most popular among average consumer grade remotes here in the U.S. Although not cheap, the Logitech Harmony series offers great functionality, easy computer-based programmability, and stylish looks at a somewhat affordable price. I already owned two other Harmony remotes, including the Logitech Harmony 550 Universal Remote and the Logitech Harmony 880 Advanced Universal Remote Control, before deciding to buy the new Harmony One. The 880 model has proven to be a wonderful but somewhat frustrating remote to own. It has very small buttons, a smallish color LCD display, and I had problems with the charging feature working properly when sitting the remote in its charging cradle. The Harmony one improves on all of these aspects. This new remote has much larger buttons, which have unique shapes that make it easy to determine function of most buttons by feel (so you don't have to look at them before pressing). The LCD screen is bigger, brighter, and has a much higher resolution; not to mention the fact that it is a touch screen. The newly designed charging cradle is formed precisely to hold the new Harmony One snug, so it cannot wobble and lose connection with the charging contacts. The Harmony One is a slight bit larger than the Harmony 880 and 890 series remotes, but feels more balanced in the hand; likely due to the remote's wonderful contoured body. Setting up the new Harmony One could not be much easier, using the same USB interface and Harmony Remote software that all of the other Harmony remotes utilize. If you already have a previous Harmony remote, you can copy over all of the activities and devices onto the new Harmony One. However, doing this will cause you to lose any custom button settings. As could be expected, the Harmony One also has an IR learning capability, so you can teach it IR commands from other device remotes that you have.
  
  Although some of the features of this new model are not unique from other Harmony models, here are a few of the perks you get with the newly designed Harmony One:
  
  - Beautiful 2.2" LCD Touch Screen Display (220 by 176 pixels)
  - 40 Essential Backlit Function Buttons, With Unique Shapes That Make Them Easy To Identify By Touch
  - USB Interface Allows Easy Setup via Computer With Included Harmony Remote Software
  - Harmony Remote Software Currently Includes Database Of More Than 5,000 Manufacturers and 175,000 Devices.
  - Activities Can Be Programmed For One Touch Control Of Your Entire Home Entertainment and/or Home Automation System (i.e., Watch DVD, Listen to CD, etc.)
  - Up To 15 Devices Can Be Programmed, Meaning You Can Essentially Replace 15 Remotes With The Harmony One
  - Logos Can Be Added For Favorite Channels Or Device Functions (although setting this up can be rather tedious!)
  - Rechargeable Litium Ion Battery Powers Remote For Several Days Between Charges
  - Up To 8 Photos Can Be Uploaded For Slideshow On LCD Display (resolution and file size limitations apply!)
  - Ergonomic Body Fits Well In Hand And Feels Light And Well Balanced
  - Included Charging Cradle Holds Remote Snug And Keeps Remote Charged And Ready For Use
  - IR Learning Feature Allows Custom Teaching Of Specialized Device Remote Commands
  - Built-In Motion Sensor Automatically Tuns On Backlighting When Remote Is Picked Up Or Tilted
  
  With the good you always have to expect some bad, and the Harmony One does indeed have a few flaws that nick my overall score of this otherwise awesome device:
  
  - Glossy Surface Of Remote Promotes Ugly Finger Print Smudges And Accentuates The Appearance Of Dust Particles
  - Only 3 Activities Are Displayed On LCD At One Time (you can flip pages to display other activities in sets of 3)
  - No RF or Bluetooth (IR only!)
  - No WiFi for Remote Setup (must be plugged directly into PC via included USB cable)
  - Photos and Custom Button Icons Can Be Painful To Setup and Configure
  - Remote Wobbles A Bit When Sitting On Hard Surface (counter top, night stand, etc.)
  - Cannot Customize Order Of Device List
  - No Tactile Response/Feedback for Touchscreen Buttons
  
  Overall I am extremely pleased with my new Logitech Harmony One Advanced Universal Remote. It is definately a step up from my Harmony 880 model. However, with a $250.00 price tag this may not be a practical choice for everyone. Many of the cheaper Logitech Harmony universal remotes offer most of the same capabilities; just not with all of the bells, whistles and high-tech style as you get with the Harmony One. I definately wish Logitech had designed this remote with a matte finish, rather than the finger print attracting gloss finish. I also wish they included the ability to customize the order in which it displays the device list. I have 15 devices programmed into my Harmony One, and I find myself flipping through page after page in order to find the device I want (since the LCD only displays 3 per page). These design oversights, and those listed in my cons list above, as well as the hefty price tag prevent me from giving this wonderful remote a 5-star rating. Still, the Harmony One is one of the best, affordable, full-featured universal remote controls you will find on the market today (IMO). Since this remote has firmware that can be upgraded via the Harmony Remote Software, I am hoping that Logitech tweaks this device a little over the coming months. Still, there is no way for them to add features like RF, Bluetooth or WiFi without introducing an upgraded model in the future. This means that buying the Harmony One today may leave you wanting a newer (improved) model, which is sure to be released by Logitech in the near future (as they did when they introduced the Harmony 890 after many of us had already purchased the Harmony 880!). If you are looking for a sleek, one remote solution for your home entertainment and/or home automation needs, and you can live without RF and Bluetooth for the foreseeable future, then I highly recommend the Logitech Harmony One. It really is one amazing remote control device!
  
  
  
• Unbelievably easy and intuitive set-up, a nearly flawless remote
  By A1VKAY0XWLA2CY on 2008-02-11
  I need to qualify my perspective by allowing that the last time I took a chance on a universal remote, it was the Phillips Pronto. A thick, wide, heavy brick of an object with a monochrome touch screen. The programming process was so drawn out, that I never got all of my devices into it, and subsequently, this expensive piece of electronics sat in that box full of cables and other bits that resides in everyone's closet. So I admit to being apprehensive a bit when the Harmony One Advanced arrived.
  
  Immediately as I opened the box, I was delighted at the look and feel of the remote. It has some substance, but isn't too heavy. The weight is fairly balanced front to back even with the battery inserted. The front face is a high gloss black, with a touch of silver at the bottom, the back a comfortable matte black rubber-type feel. It is, for lack of a better word, a 'pretty' remote.
  
  So I did what the instructions said; I gathered the make and model numbers of the nine (9) pieces of equipment I wanted to control. I set aside an hour to start the process, and figured I'd continue later as necessary. After installing the software on my laptop, I connected the remote to it, and started following the prompts. I entered all those make and model numbers -- and lo and behold, that was the whole of my set-up experience. I chose how the devices work together, what settings they each need in order to perform an 'Activity' (such as watching a DVD, or playing an Xbox 360), and that was it. After about 10-15 minutes, I was disconnected, and using my new remote without a single hitch. I love that you can hit different activities on the touch screen, and the remote will control multiple objects at the same time, or you can select devices and control each individually as if you had the original remote.
  
  After nearly a month of use, I only have a few concerns. That high gloss black on the face shows fingerprints and grime very easily. I feel like we're constantly wiping it down with a cloth they provided with the package. This isn't a complaint so much as it is an observation. Furthermore, there are already some very fine scratches over the touch screen. I may have to blame one or more of my three dogs for this one though, and not Logitech's choice of materials.
  
  All my old remotes now live in that box with the old pronto. I don't keep them around just in case, because no scenario (no matter how complicated) has required them in my use over the last month. I added a new device (an HD-DVD player) a week or two ago, and it took just a few minutes to have it working just as well as the rest in the Harmony One's interface. This is a brilliant remote, and I literally couldn't be much happier with it. The only feature I wish it had, was its own 'sleep' timer for all the devices. Not all of my electronics do that on their own, and it would have been a nice touch to have been granted that ability by way of the remote's function.
  
  Outside of those with specific RF or Bluetooth needs, I can't imagine anyone being unhappy with this remote. A wonderful addition (subtraction, considering I went from 9 remotes to 1 in this room) to my entertainment experience. Thank you, Logitech!
  
  
• A few minor negatives, like no RF support, but an outstanding remote!!
  By A3VZH0PWLQ9BB1 on 2008-01-23
  This is one high end remote, and for as sophisticated as it is, it works wonderfully in a beautifully designed ergonomic frame that is easy to setup and use.
  
  Presentation: Logitech presented the Harmony One in an elegant display box, showing the gleaming black case through clear plastic. The box graphics are nice and do a good job adding to the whole experience. No blister packs here, this feels like you are opening something important.
  
  In the box you will have the following:
  
  Universal Remote
  Charging Station
  USB Cable
  AC Power Adapter
  Lithium Ion Battery
  CD-Rom with Logitech Software
  Installation Guide
  
  Setup: Setup is a cinch, though I must admit I did have some trouble connecting this unit to my Intel iMac. After installing the software the unit did not want to acknowledge my USB connection. There was a number to call. The call center help was very friendly and helpful. Above average tech support. The problem was resolved and we moved forward.
  
  The software is easy to install, and once installed you hook up your remote to your computer through the supplied USB cable. The software then asks you for the items you want to control. (Note: It would be helpful in advance to have the makes and model numbers of everything you want to control.)
  
  After you setup all the items you want to control, the software then asks you how you have your components set up to work. For example, if I want to watch TV, I need to turn on my Dish DVR and turn my TV on and to Video 1. These are called setting up activities, and I'll get to a little later.
  
  After this is all setup to your liking, the software installs the information to your remote, reboots it and you are off to test it out.
  
  I mentioned before the concept of "Activities". One of the major drawbacks of universal remotes in the past was having to control different components, and switch between them to do tasks. This remote does it for you. When you want to watch TV, you simply push the "Watch TV" icon on the color touch screen. The unit will then do all the tasks, turning on the DVR, TV, Sound system, etc, you had to do separately. It is really neat, and a nice time saver.
  
  If you are having trouble, and the system is not working as desired, you can either hook the unit back up to the software or you can utilize the on remote help. The remote will guide you through some dialogue boxes on the color screen to help you resolve your problem.
  
  Remote Operation: The remote works with easily with a surprisingly large number of units. I use a DVR and the buttons seemed laid out perfectly for DVR operation. It also worked my VCR and DVD recorder/player as if it was designed for it, unlike most universal remotes I've used.
  
  It also worked a few things things I never thought of. It works my Sirius Starmate Replay, which I have in its boombox on the living room table. It also worked my relatively cheap Durabrand amplifier as if it was designed for it. For each of these speciality items, special control buttons appear on the touch screen for controls that are specific to that unit and that unit's remote.
  
  Another nice feature is the motion activated backlight. The unit itself is a shiny jet black, and in a dark room you would never be able to find the buttons. But simply pick up the unit, and it lights up, buttons too, for you to easily control.
  
  The only negative I've found is that it doesn't have RF support. I have a Dish Network DVR, and the second television needs to control the DVR through RF, which this unit cannot utilize. So be warned if you need RF, this unit will not do it.
  
  Bottom Line: Few glitches aside, I was extremely impressed with this remote. It is smart, sexy, and works great. From those of you with just a few items to control, to those with dozens, this remote has more than what it takes to control all your audio, visual, and other household units.
  
  
  
  
• Not ready for prime time!
  By A3HS6UXA306O5 on 2008-03-09
  The setup, using the latest version of Logitech's software from their website, went smoothly enough. All the components in my A/V system were in the database and I was able to customize several items before uploading the information to Harmony One.
  
  Unfortunately, the unit proved very inconsistent. When it worked, it would flawlessly turn on my HDTV (set to the proper HDMI source), cable box and receiver (set to the proper audio/video source). Same in the DVR mode. But for no apparent reason, there were times that incorrect TV or receiver settings would pop up when turning it on or switching to another viewing mode. The "help" function only corrected the problem 40% of the time -- forcing me to manually tune the individual components. Tweaking the firmware with the Logitech software didn't help -- it was still a 50/50 proposition. It created more problems than what I spent over $230 to solve.
  
  I don't know why these issues continued after almost a week of use, but the unit was finally packed it up and returned to the retailer. The customer service person told me that about 30 percent of the Harmony One's they sell (even more of other universal remotes) are returned for the same reason. One of these days someone will get it right --but for now, my cable remote (that also controls two additional components) will do just fine. And I'm $230+ ahead :-)
  
  
• A worthy replacement for any universal remote new or old!
  By A2KXZU9O2XVUS2 on 2008-01-30
  Just received this new gadget and although I have not had it for a long time, my initial impressions are overflowing with praise. Logitech upon acquiring Harmony has somehow found the list I made a few years ago about everything I thought was wrong and would do differently with the Harmony line of remotes and have found a solution to them all in this magnificent new version. At least that's what it seems like.
  
  This remote will be replacing my trusty old Harmony 880, which will be relegated to the bedroom after I had inadvertently sat on and crushed the lcd screen on my relatively new Harmony 550 (may it rest in peace). Apparently, the Harmony 880 is a bit more durable than the slimmer 550 because I've been known to sit on that by accident on several occasions without inflicting any damage to the unit. I'm hoping this new beautifully designed Harmony One will be have also have durability to match its looks. Only time will tell, and I will update this review in the near future after I've spent some more quality time with the device.
  
  The quick and dirty:
  
  Form factor and Ergonomics: Brilliant! Fits nicely in my medium sized hand, comfortable to hold, and nicely weighted. Logitech has answered one of my few complaints about the 880 by having raised buttons on the new Harmony One to offer the user some tactile sense of which button to press without having to look down. Also, the rearrangement of buttons makes everything more accessible and the new touch screen looks sharp and works very well - the icing on the cake.
  
  Ease of Use / Programmability: Harmony remotes have always excelled in this regard. The web-based software is intuitive and very easy to setup. It is always updated and has improved greatly over its many versions though the years. Works with both PC's and Macs with a USB port in terms of programming. The activity-based setup with the help functions makes this easy for anyone to use, including the most technology-phobic or electronically-challenged individuals, like my grandmother. My only wish is that perhaps a future software update will allow the user to further customize the icons and graphics on the touchscreen to suit personal tastes.
  
  Functionality: It does everything you need a remote to do. It would've been nice if it had RF and bluetooth functionality (to control the PS3 and other specialized devices) but there are very viable workarounds to that (Nyko bluwave IR for the PS3) and in reality, I have no need for RF functionality. Harmony offers the 890 and Universal offers a few models that do RF but none of them can match the Harmony One's user-friendliness. Perhaps Logitech will release an RF version of this remote in the future, but there is likely a small market for it. Lastly, the charger base is a significant improvement over the 880. For you 880 owners out there, I'm sure you've found its charger base to be unreliable and often unwilling to actually charge your remote unless you position it just right. Logitech has fixed this on the Harmony One. Yet another problem solved. We'll how see it holds up over time but so far, this remote is approaching perfection.
  
  Value: Is this remote worth $250? Depends who you are. Are you a techno-geek gadget-freak or a more practical and sensible person? A Harmony 550 can do just about everything the Harmony One can at a fraction of the cost but then it doesn't look, feel, and work as nice. The Harmony 550 is your Toyota corolla of remotes: dependable, practical, reliable, economical, until you bang it up by accident and it doesn't hold up very well (in my case, inadvertently sit on it). The Harmony One is your Lexus of remotes (or BMW or Mercedes, pick one). It does everything the toyota can but just better and more upscale, and it appears more durable and just feels much nicer... you know, in case you're wondering where the $250 went.
  
  Conclusion: Highly recommended! If you don't have a decent universal-type remote yet, you can't go wrong with this one. It's the best out there but comes at a price. If you already have an 880 or 890, it's a tougher proposition unless you really have $250 burning a hole in your pocket. If you have a 550 or similar and wished it was nicer or just jealous of the Harmony One's fancy touch screen, perhaps you might accidently sit on it and justify an upgrade? It's ok, I won't tell.
  
  
• Great Remote, Awful Software
  By A1LFN5TXQ0B1HB on 2008-02-19
  This remote promises a lot, and once it is set up, it largely delivers. The problem is getting there, since some aspects of the set-up software are done really badly while other parts are done brilliantly.
  
  Specifically, until Logitech releases version 7.5 of the set up software (see their site), don't bother trying to install their setup software (w/o which the remote cannot be set up) on a Mac that is running a case sensitive file system. The Logitech programmers don't take their capitalization seriously, so sloppy coding in the Javascripts they use then cause the present version of the program to crash. Funny thing is, none of the other OS X programs I use had the same problem, even old stuff. The unfamiliarity of Logitech programmers re: the Mac file system is even more apparent when you see where/how they install their components, but I digress.
  
  Tech support had me uninstall the components manually twice before sending me a Java debugger that pinpointed the source of the problem. An hour of Tech Support Level 2 later, and I was no closer to even starting their desktop program than I had been before. I subsequently installed the software on a work computer that is running Windows XP, where it worked (and did not require a restart as with the Mac). Several updates later (and the PC program actually asks if downloading updates is OK!), I could launch into setting up the remote.
  
  While there are a number of kinks to work out, the folk at Logitech have done a remarkable job of creating a vast device database to choose from. The process of setting up the remote is quite iterative, but at least I feel like I am getting a lot closer to a working system. Setting up activities (like watching TV or DVDs) is intuitive yet also allows for a fair amount of customization. If you got this far the software, you're almost done!
  
  Using the remote control is a joy and the recharging cradle is a nice touch. Also, the remote control allows a fair amount of customization to ensure that the TV, etc. do whatever they are supposed to do. This is useful in instances where the remote control doesn't wait long enough before sending the next signal in a pre-defined activity. Also, the debugger built into the remote tries pretty hard to make sure that everything works as intended. It can't always fix a problem, but at least you don't have to pull out a computer every time you notice an issue.
  
  Lastly, I really appreciated the tech support folk I have dealt with. They were kind, professional, and competent. Not many companies still maintain tech support folk in the US that can help you pinpoint issues. I just wish that the Mac desktop software programming team could be that competent... Perhaps some day Logitech will have software on the Mac that not only works but that also follows Mac conventions. They seem to know better on the Windows XP side, so I chalk this one up to inexperience.
  
  
• The (almost) perfect remote has arrived!
  By AEWYUPCNDV7HY on 2008-01-24
  This remote will change the setup of your home entertainment experience into something enjoyable. First, let me tell you what I used to have to do to get a DVD on. First, I would turn on the TV and select input 7, then turn on the DVD player, then turn on my AIWA receiver that the speakers are hooked up to. Then I would turn the AIWA dial to Video 2 (since I long ago lost the remote), then finally start the movie. Now, I just need to select "watch a DVD" and all of the above is done instantly. It's really quite amazing! The remote can be programmed for the same devices in multiple rooms as well to control TV's, DVD players, game systems, stereos, mini systems, boom boxes, cable boxes, home climate, and more.
  
  After you install the remote software on your computer, you have to gather all of your model #'s, then attach the remote to your computer via USB. After entering your model #'s the software guides you by asking questions regarding your setup. After all questions are answered the remote is updated to work on your system. Should there arise a problem, the remote has an onscreen guide that will ask you questions in order to fix the problem. My initial problem was that the remote was turning on AUX 2, not video 2, so it actually fixed itself after using the onscreen help guide.
  
  This remote has a rechargeable lithium ion battery, and has over 250,000 different devices available at the web site for programming. In the rare event that your device is not listed, this remote can also "learn" functions if you have the old remote.
  
  One feature I'm disappointed in is that the remote is not pageable. It would have been a nice feature to add that, especially in a house with little kids that like to hide cool remotes.
  
  The customer service department was helpful with the one setup issue I had. Of course, it was user error, but I didn't know how to set it up for 2 CD players in 2 rooms, so they walked me through the problem and I had the issue resolved in under 5 minutes.
  
  I highly recommend this remote for audiophiles and videophiles. I cannot imagine going back to 10 remotes.
  
  
• Very Nice, But Not Perfect (Yet)
  By AGXV8E7XK9J6H on 2008-02-01
  First of all the packaging was a thing of beauty. You open this, pull that, lift this and voila there it is, obviously a lot of engineering went into it and for what it was worth it made it a very enjoyable experience.
  
  Step 2 read the instructions. Again obviously well thought out, they have you go around and find all of the model numbers for the devices you want to control ahead of time and write them down and they were very clear and easy to follow.
  
  Step 3, the software. This installed without any issues and the onscreen step-by-step instructions were very helpful and clear. So after I went through and did all of the telling which devices were needed for which actions etc I only had 1 issue. It could not find the model number for one of my TVs. So it had me take that TV's remote and hit some buttons for it to learn, it was happy after about 5 buttons and then I went to try it.
  
  I hit the watch a DVD, watch TV, Play VCR, Listen to CDs, Play Game and Listen to Radio activity buttons and everything worked except listen to CDs it had my stereo on the wrong input, but then when I hit help it figured out what the problem was and fixed it for me. So these buttons all worked pretty well. The list seemed a bit limited and I didn't really notice a way to add to it, but then again I can't really think of anything off the top of my head that I want to do not on the list, it just seemed rather short.
  
  OK, so then I went through device by device to see what I could do. The screen shows pages of options for each device, most of which I don't want, some of which I'm pretty sure that device does not even do. I see that there is a way to edit this list, but without a little more effort that I'm willing to put into it, that's not going to happen. Most of the things I need to do I can with the buttons and if I really want to do something special every now and then I'll just scroll through the pages.
  
  When I tried to control the TV that it had me use the remote to learn from, it did not work correctly, some things worked, but when I hit channel up it went to menu and a couple of other problems...so I'm not really sure what to do about that other than just use the TV's original remote I guess.
  
  I also set up a photo slide show where you can put 8 of your own photos on and it plays when it is charging or if you select slidshow from the options menu. This is pretty much useless but nevertheless interesting. You do have to format the size and make sure you pick portrait vs. landscape or else it will distort badly.
  
  Another thing I liked was that it let you set images for your favorite channels in the watch TV action, however the software only had fox channels to pick from so I had to go out and find images for every other channel and import them which didn't always work out to the correct dimensions. So they don't necessarily look the best, but it is still a nice feature, it would just be better if the software at least had a list of most basic channels to pick from so they actually looked good.
  
  The device that I was most concerned with was my Xbox which I use as a DVR in conjunction with a computer in my basement. And although it can't turn the Xbox on because you just can't with any remote, it did work very intuitively once I got it on to navigate through the media center menus and do all of the things I needed to do.
  
  The only complaint I have about updating the remote with the software is that it takes several minutes to transfer the settings even if you just change one small thing, but really after you get this setup the way you want, this should not be an issue.
  
  So other than the few little issues I mentioned above everything else about using this remote has been logical and well designed. The good thing is that the software can be updated to fix all of the problems I have outlined, so there is not necessarily any long term issues that I have found.
  
  
  
• DON'T BUT IT if you have plan to watch ANY digital TV channels
  By AT9HZNBBCR4QB on 2008-02-05
  Seems everybody at Logitech was on vacation while the rest of America was buying TVs and DVD recorders that let us select digital TV channels such as 3-1, 5-1, 85-1, etc. Guess they also failed to hear that all TV channels MUST be digital by 2009.
  
  As of today, there is NO WAY to use this pretty new remote to punch in a digital channel number because Logitech failed to plan for the use of the dash button (button below number 7 and to left of the 0) on your TV or DVDR remote. Worse yet, you can't manually program it either.
  
  Thus, this $250 gizmo can't do what your current digital-ready TV or DVDR remote already can.
  
  
  
• Software is Disappointing
  By A1XWUR6X3V3OOS on 2008-03-23
  A word of caution... do not purchase this remote unless you like software-related challenges. I set up 4 devices and 5 activities through the automated process provided by the software. None of the devices or activities worked as they should the first time around, not even close. I had to go back to the software programming to try to modify the set-up. It is not a simple and intuitive process to tweak the initial settings, and the software has a dated look to it. There is no drag/drop and no right click functionality. Menu structure is not logical, making it difficult to find the correct setting or tweak. It took 5-6 hours in the software and another couple hours on an Audio/Video forum (AVS) before I started to understand how the software functioned. And I am not a novice computer user or universal remote user. My educational and career background is mechanical engineering, though I think even a software engineer would find the Logitech software challenging.
  
  One of the big issues is that the Logitech database does not necessarily contain the remote functions for your "specific" device. For instance, when I loaded the functions for my Sony TV, the remote had 16 pages of TV device buttons and less than half of these actually worked with my TV. As an example, there were 7 or 8 PIP functions, yet the Sony A3000 televisions do not have PIP. It is apparent that the Logitech database has only a generic function set for Sony televisions.
  
  The remote itself is very nice, though simply not worth the programming hassle in my mind. I am sticking with my MX-500 remote for now. It can be programmend manually (learning and macros) in a fraction of the time, and almost always works perfectly the first time around.
  
  
• Finally, a user-friendly Universal Remote!
  By A268EEWUXYCA8Q on 2008-01-25
  If you're perusing the Harmony One Remote page, I'm assuming you're looking for this type of remote and the price isn't a deterrent. At $250, the Harmony One is definitely pricey for a device that's simply used to control whatever you're watching, listening to, or playing. Having looked at other similar devices and having a few friends who've owned various models and types of these remotes, I have to say that the Harmony One is a wonderful addition and brings some nice features that other models lack. If you're in the market for a universal remote, this one is the best I've used, hands-down.
  
  Some of the universal remotes I've used in the past haven't exactly been the easiest to set up. And with the daunting size and hundreds of button options available, they tended to inspire fear in those who aren't intimately attached to them. The first thing that struck me with the remote is that it was very sleek, thin and had about as many buttons as my DVR remote. Installation of the included software was a breeze and I was pleasantly surprised at just how easy it was to set the whole thing up. After installation, you're basically led by hand through each of the steps. The software is very nice and easy to use, without the need for scouring through pages of pages of information to do the easiest of things. It's simplistic in a very positive way.
  
  The way the software and remote works is ingenious. Instead of being "device-focused" as every single universal remote I've used is, the Harmony One is "activity-centered." This means that when you add a device to the remote, you're attaching it to a specific activity like "Watch TV." For example, I attached my TV, surround sound system and DVR to "Watch TV" and on the remote's touch screen one of the options becomes "Watch TV." When I press that activity, the remote automatically turns on my TV, my surround sound system and my DVR. Then, all of the buttons are automatically programmed (but you can also manually program them, if you want) to work with the particular activity. So, when I push Channel Up, the remote knows to use my DVR. When I push Volume Up, again the remote knows I use my surround sound system and uses it accordingly. Simply stated, there's no need to located each device on the remote use that specific device for any supposedly easy function. The remote just knows, based on the current activity.
  
  The press release for the device states that its database has 225,000 devices, so chances are your device will be on the list. For what its worth, all but two of my devices (see below) were recognized. This ranged from my going-on-ten-years-old surround sound device, my new LCD TV, my Motorola DVR and my Xbox 360. The only negative part of adding devices is that you'll need to round up all of your model numbers in order to locate your device in their database. The setup is relatively simple; you start by selecting the type of device (TV, DVR, etc.), then another drop down will let you choose the manufacturer of the device (Microsoft, Motorola, etc.) and in the final block you put your model number in. As long as you know your model number (most of them can be found on the actual device), it's a cinch. However, there's no other way of looking up devices.
  
  The only complaint I have with the devices is that the remote doesn't utilize Bluetooth. I can hardly knock the remote for not incorporating Bluetooth in its programming simply because the number of devices that rely on it for remote capabilities are slim to none. That said, due to this limitation, I still have to have my Playstation 3 remote because the PS3 uses Bluetooth for everything. Another cool feature that is, unfortunately, not as well-incorporated as I'd like is the fact that you can assign images to your favorite channels so the image shows up on your touch screen when accessing it. Unfortunately, the remote only seems to have Fox channel icons right now, due to licensing. Hopefully, as the software receives updates, this will change and you can always track down your own images and upload them in jpg or similar format. But, it would have been nice to see more options since it's a feature that's includes and there's a lot more out there in TV land than Fox. Trust me.
  
  After loading up the activities and tweaking the buttons and the configurations (of which there's a multitude), plug your remote into your PC via the enclosed USB cord and it takes about a minute for the remote to be synched with your activities and devices. After that, it's pretty much smooth sailing. Actually using the device is pretty self-explanatory. The touch screen includes your activities, favorites buttons, devices, etc. based on the context while the actual buttons include basically everything you could want from recording, fast forward/rewind, number buttons, guide, menu, etc.
  
  The touch screen will change based on what you have open. If you select "devices," a list of your included devices will populate and, after choosing one, the screen changes again to offer you additional options. For instance, say you want to change the input setting on your TV (HDMI 1, 2, Component 1, 2, etc.), that option will be included on your touch screen. Simply choosing a different activity will also change the screen; however, in instances where you don't want to completely switch your activity, this option provides another way.
  
  I could go on and on about this device and the myriad of things you can do with it, but I'd bore you to tears. The point I'm trying to make is that the Harmony One is really about options and about giving you the flexibility you should expect from a device that's setting you back $250. The simple move from being device-centered to activity-centered opens up a huge variety of choices and allows you to customize the way you interact with your electronics in practically any way imaginable. And with the ability for the device to replace up to 15 remotes (...okay, seriously, fifteen??), it's a one-stop-shop option that should fulfill anyone's need. Oh, and it works perfectly on my Vista PC.
  
  
• A device seeking a reason for its own existence
  By A680RUE1FDO8B on 2008-02-19
  I am not a fan of this device. Maybe if I had 15 components in some elaborate home theatre system I would think it worth the effort to set it up. But I have only four components and, frankly, the setup wasn't worth the effort.
  
  In my opinion, the setup is the killer for this device. First you have to load software for the device, which takes suprisingly long.
  
  Then you have to gather up the model numbers of all your devices. For many, this may be quite a chore since they have long since lost their manuals or invoices and will need to look on the back or buttoms of devices. A lot of work considering that the next step still involves lining up the remotes so the Harmony can read the signals of the other.
  
  The process is marred by imperfect English in the setup screens. For example, I was instructed to press the "Power Toggle" button. This instruction appeared next to the words "Power Toggle" on a colored bar. Duh . . . so I pressed on the Power Toggle button. Sure looked like a button to me, ill-designed, but not unlike some I've seen on websites.
  
  Nope. They mean the power switch on the remote for the device you are trying to emulate. The on-off switch, power switch, what Americans call it, which is not the "Power Toggle".
  
  The Harmony doesn't want to admit that its database is incomplete. As it happens, my digital cable box is a brand new model which apparently hasn't made it into the Logitech database. (It is so new that the techs at Comcast had never seen or heard of it either.) So rather than confess its ignorance, the Harmony setup process simply ignores the fact that I have cable television. In its much-touted ability to set up macros for all your devices for processes such as watching a recorded TiVo program, because it couldn't find information on my cable box, it simply didn't offer me the option of watching television. Pride goeth before the fall, I guess.
  
  Although I provided the requested model numbers for each of the components, Logitech apparently doesnt have a complete or accurate database. For example, it refused to acknowledge that my television has a Video 1 input . . . or again in an example of language difficulties, it thinks that "component input" is Video 1 because it does offer me the option of Video 2 and Video 3, which are also component inputs. I sure can't figure out what Logitech is trying to tell me.
  
  In any event, though I correctly specified the input for my TiVo, the Harmony ignored me. There was a spiffy correction routine though.
  
  Battery life appears to be short so you'd probably want to keep this in its charger near your setup, which may be easier said than done in many homes.
  
  The design is nice. The touchscreen is pretty cranky it seems, but to be honest by the time I was able to start using it, I was pretty cranky too.
  
  I don't think the utility value of the Harmony is very high. I doubt that I'll be using this all the time because, frankly, the TiVo remote handles all the functionality we need except for the DVD which as a simple remote. And I seriously doubt that I could convince my far better half to even bother with the Harmony.
  
  On the whole, I think Logitech missed the boat on this one with its cumbersome setup process and poor translation of the instructions to English. Logitech advises to allow 30 minutes for the setup process. Took longer than that for me.
  
  As I said, maybe if you have a humongous home theatre setup, the time investment in learning the vagaries of the setup process might be worth it. For our paltry few components, it is not worth the bother.
  
  Jerry
  
  
• Logitech hits a home run on this one!
  By A2YG5NLJR0C3X7 on 2008-02-13
  I purchased the Harmony One recently to replace a "universal remote" which simply put all device controls into a single remote. With the old one, you still had to select each device separately, and then control it. Other than cutting down the living room clutter, it did nothing to simplify operations. On the other hand, the Harmony One is everything I'd dreamed of in a remote control. It groups your devices by Activity (function), so you use a single button to watch an HD-DVD, and it goes ahead and turns on your TV, your HD player, and your stereo receiver. How much simpler can it get? You also don't have to "shine" your component remotes into it to get it to remember their codes. Instead, you plug the Harmony One into a USB port on your computer, call up the Logitech website, select your home theater components from a list, and all the necessary codes are downloaded into your Harmony One for you. Piece of cake! And if you really want to control a single device separately, it provides a Device pushbutton which then gives you access to the single component you wish to work with. It's a fantastic remote control and worth every penny, especially when you no longer have to go through lengthy explanations to your wife, kids and babysitters on how to operate the home theater equipment. Buy it, you'll love it!
  
  
• Getting better ... but no RF?
  By A284Y9E8UP7FNJ on 2008-01-05
  This remote finally fixes the ergonomic issues of the 880 / 890 remotes but doesn't include RF capability, which is just amazing in this day and age (especially for such an expensive remote). It would be great if they moved the play / ff / rw buttons a little higher up and made the surface material a bit less glossy (lots of fingerprint smudges).
  
  
• WOW!
  By A16RI68PS6T5CA on 2008-01-25
  I received the Harmony One remote a few days ago but was hesitant to go through the process of setting it up -- prior experiences of setting up universal remotes were time consuming and unpleasant. Enter Logitech's line of Harmony remotes, revolutionizing the way we interact with our home entertainment systems.
  
  Upon opening the box, you can tell that Logitech took great care in designing this remote. The packaging was unique. The remote was stunningly beautiful (what can I say, I'm a geek!). Before even programming it, I tested how it felt in my hand, and thought that the buttons were fairly intuitive.
  
  Logitech classifies this remote as a "Activity-based remote." What this means is that if you want to watch a DVD, click one button, and it will turn on your TV, DVD player, and A/V system. If you then decide to watch your TV, it will turn off your DVD player and A/V system. This will eliminate the need to locate different remotes, and turn them on/off.
  
  Programming the remote is simple and painless. Setting the unit up requires installing Logitech's software. The software is compatible with both PCs and Macs (Sorry Linux users!). You begin by jotting down the details of your home theater, such as model numbers, and how the devices are connected (like DVD as Video 1, and VCR as Video 3, etc.). Enter all those details into the program, and the hard part is over.
  
  After updating the remote with all the new information, I gave the unit a test drive. At first, my TV would not turn on. I just followed the touch-screen guide, and in moments, it began working. One button didn't seem to work -- the ENTER button... I was puzzled. I plugged the remote back into my computer, and found that I could edit what each button did. That took 5 seconds, and a 1 minute update of the remote.
  
  PROS:
  - Touch screen to select activities, devices, favorites
  - Ability to program favorites into the remote
  - Guided online setup (no need to input complex codes into old remotes)
  - Ability to program more than 225,000 devices from more than 5,000 brands (including DVD players, LaserDisc, TVs, media center PCs, etc.) If it doesn't currently support it, it may be supported in the future with updates! It also supports home automation devices!
  - Will turn on when you touch it
  - Rechargable lithium-ion batteries with lighted recharge base station. Perhaps you can use the rationale that you no longer have to buy batteries for your 5+ remotes, because this one is included, and is rechargable!
  
  CONS:
  - Attracts lots of fingerprints. In the package, they provide a soft cloth (similar to those for camera lenses) to wipe it clean.
  - Because there is a base station, it would've been nice if it was mountable onto the wall, similar to how some phones are.
  - I lose my remotes frequently. Since the remote has some sound feedback, it would've been nice to have a paging function built in
  - Cost -- If it wasn't for the Amazon Vine program, I don't believe I would've purchased this. I was considering the more inexpensive options.
  - Supports IR (infrared), but does not support RF (radio frequency).
  
  Overall, despite these minor drawbacks, I am very happy with this device, and would recommend it to anyone willing to spend the extra money for a quality remote.
  
  
• Expelliarmus! ...
  By A10C5CJK1YKGV0 on 2008-02-05
  1. The remote came so well-packaged from Amazon I thought it was Easter, as it was surrounded in its box by that type of green plastic grass that you usually see in plastic Easter Baskets with chocolate.
  
  2. The remote fits nicely in the hand, looks good and is easy to control. The docking bay looks sleek, very cool and is unobtrusive to the eye as it lays flat when docked.
  
  3. The software was easy and simple to use and I had no difficulty interfacing with it. I have numerous devices (12 in all) and it was able to control each of them, even my VCR that's closing in on 15 years of age. I was able to get through the set up pretty quickly. Although it does require a certain amount, and type, of patience when programming a universal remote. I didn't experience anything troubling or hard to get past. In fact, the remote seemed to learn my devices mostly by itself and required very little extra programming, by me, for most of my gear.
  
  4. One thing to be aware of though - is SONY equipment. There are proprietary issues with Sony that seem to trump here and get in the way of things with the remote. But this is the fault of Sony and not Logitech. You may have to program all your buttons with your Sony devices like any other Universal Remote from the old days, so if you're already accustomed to it, you won't feel put out and it doesn't take that long anyways. But seeing the remote learn your other devices in a matter of seconds, with no extra input, is pretty cool.
  
  5. I was able to program other custom buttons for devices that are harder to find in the search database like my HDMI A/B Switch, which I'll probably replace now anyways. But it learned it quickly and I was able to put away the cheap remote that came with the switch that hardly ever worked.
  
  6. The touch screen is very well laid out into simple menus that can be completely customized if you so desire. I kept it pretty simple and neglected attaching photos / pictures with each different device or TV channel. While it may look like a Star Trek device, and difficult to get used to, the remote is pretty basic and quickly takes over as the main remote without much pain or labor.
  
  7. The remote has a very quick response time with the devices and seems as if it's actually stronger than most of the OEM remotes that came with each piece of equipment. My Cable Box remote was the most obvious as it was sluggish and annoying. The Harmony remote responds quicker and from farther distances.
  
  8. One of the nicest features that some people may not be aware of is the use of Macro commands. One button turns on multiple items at different settings so you don't have to go through one by one and do it yourself, like watching a DVD or Cable TV. It's incredibly impressive on so many levels and makes the experience of watching your home theater that much simpler.
  
  9. Radio station programming. Thank you, Lord. Since I work from home and I listen to the radio all day, having a button on the touch screen for `Radio Stations' made me very happy.
  
  10. My only complaint: No remote page feature. Everyone loses their remote - everyone. Looking for it sometimes is exasperating.
  
  This is the slickest remote I've ever handled. Several people that came over to visit, did a double-take as their jaw hit the floor, awestruck, when they realized I had a remote with touch-screen.
  
  Man, is it cool.
  
  
  
• Maybe the best Harmony Remote ever?
  By A1ZCSSCAGBCD49 on 2008-02-16
  I've owned 5 and currently own 4 Harmony remotes. Yes, I like them and this One is the best one ever, IMHO. Is it perfect, no, but none are. It's so close to perfect that I can live with its minor faults. I'm not going to give a full review, others have and have done admirable jobs. What I'd like to do is aim those that want to take the remote further to some really helpful web sites. First there's RemoteCentral, lots of good information to be found there. Second and my personal favorite is AVSForum. Find the remote section and you will find the One and other Harmonys discussed. Last and certainly not least is IconHarmony. There you will find TV Logo icons reimagined by a graphic artist specifically for the One. Oh, the "Favorites" feature. That's where the fun begins. He also made graphics for the screen saver. All three above are dot coms. Hopefully you will find great help and support at these sites.
  
  
  
• My opinion: This is absolutely the best universal remote available!
  By A2UDGAA94CT9CL on 2008-03-03
  This is a long review, intended to provide more current information and ideally give some insight about using this remote in real life circumstances.
  
  I don't agree with the few folks who gave this a poor review and rating. Of course, they were representing their opinions, as entitled, and I am doing so here. Sometimes people review similar but different models or brands, and to be clear, I am giving my opinion of the Harmony One universal remote. This is an amazing set of technology, and clearly the best universal remote I have evaluated, used and owned throughout the years. Sure, one can usually find some negatives if determined to do so. For me, there are none. Yes, it would be great if it did Bluetooth in addition to IR so I wouldn't have to manually press the power button on my PS3/Blu-ray console, but it doesn't and I knew that before I bought it. And, as of this writing, I am not aware of any reasonably priced consumer universals that do both.
  
  To the person's review that recommended waiting for some "rev 2" of the Harmony One, I added the following comment:
  
  "You may have received one that was produced very early in the manufacturing process. I got mine in February and have zero problems with accurate programming for my Yamaha RX-V3800, Sony KDS-60A2020, Toshiba HD-A20, Audiovox Sirius, XM Mini-tuner, Sony PS3/Blu-ray, and Nintendo Wii. I also have experienced no problems with the IR--in fact I can aim it anywhere in my 13 x 24 room, even at the rear corners, the ceiling, floor--anywhere, and everything powers on/off as programmed.
  
  Folks, you don't need to wait for any "rev 2", just let it download and install the most current firmware and software. It's amazing how great, and intuitive this Harmony One is. And no, I am not affiliated with Logitech or any of its suppliers. I'm just a consumer who appreciates a well-engineered product that meets or exceeds expectations based on what it claims to do."
  
  3/4/2008 update: In addition to the gear listed above, last night I installed my new Yamaha YDS-10 iPod dock that's paired with my Yamaha RX-V3800 receiver. This dock has no remote (nor does my XM mini-tuner) and it took me a just few minutes to figure out how to control it with my One, emulating my receiver's remote.
  
  I also saw someone who complained that this remote is "huge".
  
  In my opinion the size is perfect for me. It's about the size of the remote that came with the Scientific-American 8380HD cable DVR except the One is noticeably thinner, about the same size and thickness as the remote that came with my Toshiba HD-A20, and a great deal smaller than the remotes that came with my Yamaha RX-V3800 receiver and my Sony KDS-60A2020 RPTV.
  
  I also like the size and layout options for the touch screen. You can change the physical buttons to do almost anything your equipment is capable of being controlled to do. For example, my HDTV has a button that cycles through the screen sizes, such as zoom, expanded zoom, etc. I changed the One's "E" button on the lower right to do this when I'm using the "Watch TV" activity. The physical buttons can be set to different functions for each activity if you want, or they can be set to the default for the specific make and model of your device for every activity. You can also create as many screens of functions (visually represented as icons) as needed to do simple, expanded or highly complex tasks. You can revise the layouts, reorder the icon displays, rename activities, on and on. Notice I said "you can" a lot, since you don't need to customize or create anything complex to do basic remote activities and functions unless you want to.
  
  I started out easy by adding each of my devices (all of mine were found in the Logitech database just fine), then activities such as "Watch TV", "Play HD-DVD", "Listen to Sirius", etc. These activities power on all needed devices for the activity, and make sure all others are powered off. This was great for my wife, who only needs to pick up the remote (the backlight automatically illuminates) and touch "Watch TV". She shuttered every time she previously had to do that with all the devices' individual remotes, and sometimes needed to call on me to get things "unstuck". Admittedly, this was sometimes difficult for me too, especially when I bought my new A/V receiver.
  
  Now I've been adding more customizations and more complex combinations and functions iteratively. As I use this remote I'll think of some other button or function I'd like to have and add that to a list, then every few days I'll add a bunch of them at one time. For me, this is fun.
  
  I haven't had to read any manuals, although I did use the built-in Help button to resolve an operator error (I had specified the wrong function), which it did very effectively and intuitively. The PC software for programming the remote is top notch. I do have recommendations for making this a bit more user friendly, which I will be sharing with Logitech's customer support. I'll list one of them so you don't get nailed like I did: when customizing buttons and doing a lot of setup activities, beware that the application (into which you must logon) times out. When it does, you will lose every change you made since your last save. So, make several changes, save and keep going. None of my recommended software enhancements are critical, nor would any of them have prevented me from buying this. And none of them were cause to not give this my five-star rating.
  
  
• Harmony One, star.
  By A17GKA76G3I5LP on 2008-03-13
  'One' meaning 'one to rule them all'? Ooops! It won't control my PlayStation, my BluRay disk player, will it? No, because this $250 remote is lacking BlueTooth and it hasn't any RF remote capabilities for other devices. What a hype! This is only slightly better than the H880 which is HALF the price. Try again Logitech.
  
  
• Cool Touch Screen, User-friendly, compatible with less popular brands but expensive
  By A3OOQH73VQ97VN on 2008-01-15
  I managed to get one of this cool thing (touch screen is the cool thing today) before the official release. I intended to use it for my Grundig (brand hardly heard of) 250GB DVD recorder as my son broke the old remote. The installation was smooth and I managed to get it to work fairly quickly. Controls are almost the same as the old control and this control is user-friendly and easy to aim and touch/press. It also works with my sharp 32" LCD TV. I could program it to jump to any user-configured setting for my dvd and tv combo. It's a luxury to have it. But I feel that the price tag is a bit too steep. I could actually bought another DVD recorder with a new control! Perhaps they should come up with a skin for the control? In case my son break it again. And the glossy plastic is prone to scratches, just like my Creative Zen 16GB.
  
  
• Fantastic product, wouldn't trade it for any other!
  By AIIR8E34EDKCQ on 2008-02-12
  Finally a cool remote that is compatible with Windows Vista - that was the reason why I was unable to get one before. This little baby is amazing - it's not only easy to use but also very powerful, before I was unable to keep anything on the table in front of my amp because the volume couldn't be reached by my remote, now I can mute or adjust volume with pointing in the general direction, no matter what obstacle - or even person - is blocking it.
  
  This remote is very easy to install and start using; the DVD included provides all the necessary steps and I love how I can download logos for my favorite channels and simply store them in the display under my Favorites - all I have to do is locale the History Channel for example and click the H Channel logo - and voila, no fuss, no muss. Other than not being able to control Blue Tooth or RF this makes my life easy, it looks good, feels great and comes with a handy charger that I plug in and keep by my bed, it slips in seamlessly and is always charge and bonus - I always know where to find the remote.
  
  The display is gorgeous and buttons easy to use - for me there is no better way to watch TV or movies, remotes were always a hassle but this one is pure pleasure.
  
  - Kasia S.
  
  
  
• Too fragile
  By A3P9XMFLD0QYVI on 2008-03-22
  Dropped this remote from only 3 feet onto a wooden floor and the touchscreen broke. Ruined. $250 and it cant take a single drop? I have used a 520 for 2 years and it could be thrown across a room, but a chocolate milk bath finally killed it. So, I have the 670 now, seems much more robust ike the 520 was.
  
  

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