Logitech Harmony 890 Universal Remote One of the Best!

Controls up to 15 devices: This state-of-the-art universal remote controls up to 15 components, such as televisions, projectors, monitors, amplifiers, stereo receivers, cable boxes, VCRs, DVD players, DVD recorders, CD players, game consoles, computers—even lighting and household appliances. If you own a Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition PC, there is a feature that enables you to integrate your PC with your entire entertainment system.

Easy online setup: Configuring your remote to control all of your components is easy with Logitech’s online wizard. Just connect your Harmony® 890 Advanced Universal Remote to your PC or Mac using the provided USB cable, answer some basic questions about your components, and you’re ready to go. Plus, the Logitech Harmony remote website has one of the largest databases of devices.

One-button controls: With some remotes, even a basic task like watching a DVD can take several steps (powering up the TV, then the stereo, then the DVD player)—but not with the Harmony® 890. With this advanced remote, most common functions have been streamlined into convenient, one-button controls. Now to watch a DVD, all you have to do is press the “Watch a Movie” button, and the remote automatically cues all of the devices. You can also easily switch between tasks—like watching HDTV and listening to music—with a single button.

Easy-to-read display: A color LCD screen makes it simple to select different tasks. The remote also features a backlit keypad that makes it easy to use the remote in dark rooms.

Wireless A/V bridge receiver Compatible: You don’t have to be in a direct line of sight for your remote to work thanks to the bridge receiver, which converts RF signals to IR commands and offers a wireless range of up to 100 feet (Not Included)

Recharging station: Don’t worry about changing remote batteries. This model comes with a docking station that lets you recharge the remote when you aren’t using it.

Includes: AC adapter for recharging base, USB cable, Lithium-ion rechargeable battery.

System Requirements

PC

• Microsoft® Windows® 98SE, 2000, Me, or XP
• USB port
• CD-ROM drive
• Internet access

Mac

• Macintosh® OS X 10.2 or later
• USB port
• CD-ROM drive
• Internet access

Package Contents

• Harmony® 890 remote control
• Charging station
• USB cable
• 1 AC adapters
• Lithium-ion battery
• Installation CD
• Installation guide

REVIEW

Conclusion

Logitech doesn't let you forget for one moment that you have just purchased a premium product.  From the sturdy velvet-coated plastic trays, to the thread fastening ties replacing standard twist ties, the Harmony 890 Pro Advanced is presented as a crown jewel.

The Harmony 890 has a look and feel all of it's own.  Not one boxed corner or square button to be found, it truly is a sculptured piece of art guaranteed to add value to your home theater systems appeal.

Even when dropped onto a carpeted floor from a standing position (and it was often... just for testing of course), the Harmony 890 never had a single problem.  The ergonomic design offsets the LCD screen below surface level, so even in the worst accidents the screen should be safe from contact.

The fact that the Harmony 890 Pro Advanced conveniently dismisses up to 15 other remotes from my tabletop is testament to it's functionality.  There were a few tiny glitches, such as button delay and dim backlighting, but it was an otherwise very functional universal remote control.  Even when the initial configuration faltered, the assistant corrected the configuration problem in under a few seconds.

Value is a subjective term in regards to a product such as this.  Similar to comparing luxury cars to economy cars, the Harmony 890 Pro Advanced is not meant to be the every-mans replacement.  Logitech clearly issues the Harmony 890 as a prestigious product destined for premium home theater environments.  This is why the device is guaranteed to work with every piece of equipment out there, and also why it features an LCD display and Li-Ion rechargeable battery.  Add to these features the additional tilt sensor power-resume, and extended radio frequency range, and the Harmony 890 Pro Advanced begins to sell itself well worth the premium price.

In conclusion, the Harmony 890 Pro Advanced comes highly-recommended for above-average entertainment centers and premium home theater systems.  There is nothing else presently available for less which offers nearly the same features and functionality, except of course for the other Logitech Harmony family of universal remotes.  This is one product which clearly has blown away the competition.
Pros:Benchmark Reviews Golden Tachometer Award

+ Extremely attractive design
+ Large on-line device database
+ Ergonomic lightweight case
+ Replaces up to 15 remote controls
+ Convenient button layout
+ RF works with components hidden behind walls or in cabinets
+ High-quality solid construction
+ Smart tilt sensor brings remote out of standby
+ Rechargeable Li-Ion battery
Cons:

- Remote does not power off
- Dark-chrome backlighting is too dim
- Charging base ring always glows
- Delayed button reaction

Ratings:

    *      Presentation: 9.5
    *      Appearance: 9.75
    *      Construction: 9.75
    *      Functionality: 8.75
    *      Value: 8.25

Final Score: 9.25 out of 10.