by Aaron Hunt

Created on: June 03, 2010

The modern home theater typically has many components, each with its own remote.  A universal remote is a way to minimize the clutter and confusion that often results from needing five remotes to watch a movie with the family.  Many universal remotes can control twelve or more components and are capable of executing macros that perform a series of steps with the press of one button.  Turning on the TV, the amplifier, the DVD, the Blu-Ray, and the cable DVR box can all be done with the press of one button! 

There are several manufacturers of universal remotes.  Logitech’s Harmony series is the market leader, but Sony, RCA, Phillips, GE, Universal Remote Control, and others also have offerings.  However, before rushing out to buy one, make a detailed review of the cable box or DVR remote.  Many of these have the functionality to control the basic components.  If the home theater consists of a TV, DVD player, and cable box, this remote may control them all. 

Features to look for in a universal remote include the number of devices it can control, the ability for macro programming, the ability to control DVR and Pay Per View functions with your cable provider, and ergonomics – how comfortable and easy is it to use.  When considering the number of devices it can control it is necessary to understand how many devices are in the home theater.  In a dedicated home theater it is easy to have 10 remotes, especially when items like subwoofers and lighting have remote controls.  Many remotes only control three or four components – make sure the remote can handle all components in the home theater. 

A macro is a small program that executes a series of steps.  Having the ability to write a macro makes it much easier for non-technical persons to operate the theater.  It makes it easy for the spouse or children to know how to turn on the stereo or watch a movie or even to set everything correctly to play video games.   It takes some time to program the macros, but it is well worth the effort.  If there are members of the household that struggle with electronics, this is a must-have feature. 

Some universal remotes do not have the ABCD type buttons many cable providers require for pay per view, DVR, and non-video content.  If these are a requirement it is important to consider.  Many remotes can be programmed, but how easy is it to remember that “A” equals “1” when the remote is in auxiliary mode?  IF the ABCD type buttons are needed, make sure the universal remote has them. 

Perhaps most importantly, make sure the remote feels easy to use and the buttons are placed well.  There are some remotes that are essentially versions of existing remotes modified to fit the additional or new capabilities required for the universal remote.  Often this leads to button placement that is less than optimal.  Also, the physical size of the remote may be a concern.  Aesthetics may also be important – the remote should look pleasing and be well designed.  

A full-function universal remote will typically cost between $50 and $150.   The truly power hungry can spend $300 or more on a remote, but this is not necessary.  Considering how much it costs to put together a nice home theater, it is worth a minor additional cost to make it easier to control.  Eliminating the fumbling of remotes and remembering which settings are needed to start enjoying the experience is truly a wonderful thing. 

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