Hot - Staples LOGITECH HARMONY 550 for $69.99 (lowest price ever ?)

[nopn]

staples has the LOGITECH HARMONY 550 for $69.99 (include $30MIR)

PM with infonec for further discount.

http://www.infonec.com/site/main.php?module=detail&id=349253

not sure it can apply everywhere. YMMV

[jobooie]

Just got back from FS and PM'd for $62.99 plus tax came to $71.81. Very happy!

[kevinnashho]

great deal, thanks OP

[CFRTim]

What proof did you have for the PM? Any link that I can print out

[north5995]

How long with a set of rechargeable's last in the 550?

[JiNuWiNe]

So basically you program all your TV,DVD,HDBOX remotes to this Harmony remote? I have 3 huge remotes lying on the table and its quite troublesome to flip through all of them when you need to do different things. How good is the Harmony remote?

[Talamasca]

So basically you program all your TV,DVD,HDBOX remotes to this Harmony remote? I have 3 huge remotes lying on the table and its quite troublesome to flip through all of them when you need to do different things. How good is the Harmony remote?

To answer the first question, yes. It's very easy to program and customize. I have the Xbox 360 version of the Harmony, which is very similar to the 550, and I love it. All appropriate devices will turn on or off with just one button.

[FrozenPegger]

So basically you program all your TV,DVD,HDBOX remotes to this Harmony remote? I have 3 huge remotes lying on the table and its quite troublesome to flip through all of them when you need to do different things. How good is the Harmony remote?

I have the 520. Put all remotes away after buying. My wife (the final test) now uses the Help feature vs calling me. Cheaper than a divorce lawyer.

I have a 42 Westy tv, JVC reciever, Motorola dct6200, DVD Player and a VHS. I'm going to change the dimmer light to a remote one as well. I wish my fireplace had a remote, that would work to. Only the devices being used are on, the others turn off. The TV switches input each time as well.

[spinbot]

Hmm.. I have a 659 and need to replace it. Wondering how much of a downgrade this would be. It doesn't look as ergonomic.

[nopn]

wonder i can use this for my laptop, since my laptop has an infrared red receiver ?

anyone try that ?

[Rocha70]

Am I missing something? Staples.ca only sells the 680 for 199.99.

Where do we see it for 69.99? Do I have to go into the actual store?!? How low-tech!

[nopn]

Am I missing something? Staples.ca only sells the 680 for 199.99.

Where do we see it for 69.99? Do I have to go into the actual store?!? How low-tech!

is on the flyer page 14

[crazdefool]

wonder i can use this for my laptop, since my laptop has an infrared red receiver ?

anyone try that ?

probably not.. here is a quote from some websiteIrDA is the hardware used by laptop and some desktop machines for communicating using a high speed serial infrared link. it is not for remotes

[Rocha70]

is on the flyer page 14

Ah, I see. Great website they have there. :)

Thanks.

[tomtomtom]

wonder i can use this for my laptop, since my laptop has an infrared red receiver ?

anyone try that ?

Depends...my gf has a HP multimedia laptop, harmony remote works flawlessly:)

[nufan]

do they happen to have any deals on the xbox version of the harmony ? Really want one but figured thats the one i would choose since i have a 360.

Also, the person who PM'ed with futureshop, was it easy? Generally my local futureshop won't PM when a mail in rebate is concerned (which if im reading the deal properly is the case here).

What would I be missing out on if i picked up this bad boy over the Xbox version, and also, will Harmony's be able to control my digital cable box (menu guide, changing channels etc)

thanks !

[Moosebox]

What would I be missing out on if i picked up this bad boy over the Xbox version, and also, will Harmony's be able to control my digital cable box (menu guide, changing channels etc)

thanks !

You would be missing 4 buttons, A B X Y which would just be used to navigate the XBL blade. So really you aren't missing much, definitely nothing worth another $50.

And yes, it should control your digital box just fine.

Due to the instant rebate, and 'easy-online' rebate, this is very YMMV with price matching.

[CLK]

You would be missing 4 buttons, A B X Y which would just be used to navigate the XBL blade. So really you aren't missing much, definitely nothing worth another $50.

And it will work fine with your Xbox360. I have the 520 and it just puts the ABXY buttons in the LCD window on the remote. Works like a charm if you want to navigate your 360, play DVDs or just turn the thing off and on.

Like someone noted earlier, my wife can't live without it! Highly recommended if you have 3 or more remotes to juggle.

[(Bean)]

Has anyone tried this with MCE 2005 when a 360 is in the same room? Does it control both at the same time like the xbox remotes?

Also how much learning can it it do - can I learn an entire remote?

[Aske001]

wonder i can use this for my laptop, since my laptop has an infrared red receiver ?
anyone try that ?

I checked this out at one time. It turns out that the IrDA interface on laptops requires a 2-way "handshake" with the remote device in order to exchange any message. Therefore it won't work with any standard send-only remote control. This protocol is built in to the IrDA interface chip, so there's no way to bypass it via some sort of software on the laptop.

Of course you can buy a separate USB infrared receiver if you really want to control your laptop remotely with the Harmony.

[Aske001]

Has anyone tried this with MCE 2005 when a 360 is in the same room? Does it control both at the same time like the xbox remotes?

Also how much learning can it it do - can I learn an entire remote?

If the XBox remote sends an Ir code that both devices react to, it won't make any difference to send that same code from the Harmony. You need to see if you can change the receiver code on one device or the other, and then change the remote for that device correspondingly.

The Harmony remotes can learn any Ir code directly from the remote any other device, but normally you don't have to learn anything - all the codes for thousands of common devices are already in the online database.

[freddyprinze]

I have a stupid question: I have my NAD receiver (and Denon CD player) on a shelf that is about 15 feet away from my TV and DVD player. The universal remote I have currently doesn't turn everything on because of the line of sight angle is too wide. I mention the NAD brand as it's hard to find remotes that work with it...

Does this Logitech remote offer a better/stronger signal that will overcome this issue for me? Please forgive my lack of techy language! :)

[blainehamilton]

Not sure about the 550, but the 880 I have works well from just about anywhere in the room. I can point it at the wall or ceiling and it still works.

[h00ch]

I have a stupid question: I have my NAD receiver (and Denon CD player) on a shelf that is about 15 feet away from my TV and DVD player. The universal remote I have currently doesn't turn everything on because of the line of sight angle is too wide. I mention the NAD brand as it's hard to find remotes that work with it...

Does this Logitech remote offer a better/stronger signal that will overcome this issue for me? Please forgive my lack of techy language! :)
Sounds like you either need to move the components closer together or install some mirrors!

[cpoole]

How long with a set of rechargeable's last in the 550?


my eneloops last 4 to 6 months

[BobyYoo]

which is better the 659 or 550?? i can get the 659 for $70 from a friend.

also, for the guy who own the NAD receiver, im on the same boat, i have Rega audio stuff, and the remote require a certain angle to work.
i'm wondering if this remote will do the job.

[cpoole]

Hmm.. I have a 659 and need to replace it. Wondering how much of a downgrade this would be. It doesn't look as ergonomic.

I had a harmony peanut remote and did not like the closeness and placement of the buttons. I do like the shape and feel of the 550 but each person has their personal preferences. I would not call this a downgrade unless it is missing features that you need.

[mr_yellow]

I got this remote earlier this year for 100 bucks and that was a good deal then.

I love it and batteries last a good 4-6 months which is pretty good imo. Buy 2 sets of rechargables and swap them when the battery is low. the remote will tell you well in advance to change batteries.

I love the formfactor which is thin and sleek.

If you need to control 3 or more devices (I have my reciever, tv, digital box, computer) I highly recommend it. It takes some time to set it up perfectly, but the software to program the remote is very easy to use. And practically all the IR codes are accessible via logitech's online database so there's no need to manually learn any commands from your other devices unless you have some really strange device from khazakstan...

[mrhector]

Has anyone else had luck price matching this with FS?

[Shoua]

I just got back from my local FS, they price matched the $30 instant savings, but not the $30 MIR...............I got it for $96.93

[BobyYoo]

I just got back from my local FS, they price matched the $30 instant savings, but not the $30 MIR...............I got it for $96.93

why would you pay $96 when it is 69$ after rebate.

just wait few months and you'll get the $30 MIR

[MikeAK]

why would you pay $96 when it is 69$ after rebate.

just wait few months and you'll get the $30 MIR

lol..I was thinking that very same thing. It's even an "easy online rebate" which are even faster then MIR, usually 4-6weeks on avg.

[mrhector]

So I just tried the FS at Robson & Granville and they said the same thing. Would not match mail-in rebate, so I just left it. Decided i'll try my luck at another location on way home.

[nufan]

why would you pay $96 when it is 69$ after rebate.

just wait few months and you'll get the $30 MIR

guys it is possible that he doesnt have a staples near by and/or they didnt have any in stock.

Otherwise yes I'd have to agree seems strange not to take the extra mail in rebate if there is one conveniently close to him.

[gostinger]

Dell has it for $79.99 no rebate.Don't know if that helps any1

[nufan]

yeah was just going to post that myself. Browsing on the dell site it is $79 no MIR and no shipping. So if you don't have a Staples near by get FS to match that. Personally i would still get it from staples to get more of a discount in the long run.

[MikeAK]

yeah was just going to post that myself. Browsing on the dell site it is $79 no MIR and no shipping. So if you don't have a Staples near by get FS to match that. Personally i would still get it from staples to get more of a discount in the long run.

That sounds good but FS will charge you for next day shipping when price matching Dell.ca.

[nufan]

That sounds good but FS will charge you for next day shipping when price matching Dell.ca.

i guess it depends on location and the sales person you get. I have price matched with Dell quite a few times ensuring that free shipping is displayed in the documentation i provide them. Also when i got my 360 i matched dell's offer of an extra game which FS included.

[angelus360]

That sounds good but FS will charge you for next day shipping when price matching Dell.ca.

That is why I PM with BestBuy. They never give me grief with Dell stuff. BB PM FTW :)

[MikeAK]

i guess it depends on location and the sales person you get. I have price matched with Dell quite a few times ensuring that free shipping is displayed in the documentation i provide them. Also when i got my 360 i matched dell's offer of an extra game which FS included.

I don't doubt that's possible depending on location and employee you get. I already tried that here and was told they would match the sale price but always charge Dell.ca next day shipping so it basically didn't make sense. Wish I had your store near me.

[goleafsgo1]

I was successfully able to PM it at futureshop. Very easy to setup as well, I am up and running in 30 minutes.

[Shoua]

why would you pay $96 when it is 69$ after rebate.

just wait few months and you'll get the $30 MIR


Well i wanted to buy it with my f/s card to tell you the truth.........i know i know silly idea, but i am hoping i can price match the dell.ca deal

[adrianf74]

I just got back from my local FS, they price matched the $30 instant savings, but not the $30 MIR...............I got it for $96.93

That is correct. I've tried going to two locations with no luck. If you look at their price guarantee policy, it states they DO NOT match mail-in rebates.

Somebody else just posted that Dell has the 550 for $79.99 + tax shipped.

[the watcher]

was right about to jump on this when a local guy was selling the 720 for 80$ :cheesygri

[mahjongmaniac]

Just got back from FS and PM'd for $62.99 plus tax came to $71.81. Very happy!

hm... i'm guessing you brought the flyer ... cuz online it's pretty clear that there's a MIR and the $100 sale price....

nice one.

[Apocalypse21]

Picked this up at the Stooples store since FS wouldn't pricematch due to the mail-in rebate. This remote is great! Took me about a half an hour of programming and tweaking to get it set up with my myriad of components. Definitely a bargain at this price IMHO.

Thanks OP!

[north5995]

I just got back from my local FS, they price matched the $30 instant savings, but not the $30 MIR...............I got it for $96.93

I had the same problem. Maybe it was because I was trying to PM something else under cost at the same time.

[flyingclyde]

Got mine at FS last night... $62 and change... they put up slight resistance about the rebate, but they buckled under duress (kindness, actually). Took the extended warranty ($14.99) to appease the sales rep who gets a commission. Scratch my back, I'll scratch yours ... Great little remote.

[Phils]

Does anyone use this remote with a Scientific Altlanta SA8300(HD) PVR and if so, does this model have the A B C and List keys?

[adrianf74]

Got mine at FS last night... $62 and change... they put up slight resistance about the rebate, but they buckled under duress (kindness, actually). Took the extended warranty ($14.99) to appease the sales rep who gets a commission. Scratch my back, I'll scratch yours ... Great little remote.

This kinda bothers me since it's clearly stated in their policy that they don't price match rebates of any sort. Willing to post a copy of your receipt? Then I'd be taking that to FS.

[adrianf74]

Does anyone use this remote with a Scientific Altlanta SA8300(HD) PVR and if so, does this model have the A B C and List keys?

The 880 doesn't, either, and it's a more expensive remote.

You'll have to program A, B, C and List to show in your window which is what I did with the 880.

[Shoua]

Well i went back to future shop last night, got them to price match the dell offer. The first lady refused to do it because it didn't ship same day. I eventually got to speak with a manager and she approved it. I ended up paying $74.79 In total with their 10% price beat. I think paying an extra $5 is worth not having to wait 6 weeks for a $30 rebate that Staples offers.

[Mint]

Well i went back to future shop last night, got them to price match the dell offer. The first lady refused to do it because it didn't ship same day. I eventually got to speak with a manager and she approved it. I ended up paying $74.79 In total with their 10% price beat. I think paying an extra $5 is worth not having to wait 6 weeks for a $30 rebate that Staples offers.

Actually, because you have to pay tax on the rebate (0.14*30=$4.2) it almost comes out to the same price without the MIR wait.

How good are these remotes? It seems like everyone wants one of these.

[flyingclyde]

Does anyone use this remote with a Scientific Altlanta SA8300(HD) PVR and if so, does this model have the A B C and List keys?

Yes ... it has A/B as buttons on bottom right, and C and LIST get put in the window.

[Phils]

The 880 doesn't, either, and it's a more expensive remote.

You'll have to program A, B, C and List to show in your window which is what I did with the 880.

Thx,

Good to know. If I'm not mistaken, the PVR-intended Harmony model 670 doesn't either.

[Phils]

Yes ... it has A/B as buttons on bottom right, and C and LIST get put in the window.

Well,

That's better than what Adrian said. I'll take your answer.

[Shoua]

Actually, because you have to pay tax on the rebate (0.14*30=$4.2) it almost comes out to the same price without the MIR wait.

How good are these remotes? It seems like everyone wants one of these.

This remote is great! Took me about 15min to setup, the only thing it didn't seem to have in the database already was my Bell 9200 PVR, but with a few quick button presses it learned and works flawlessly. Honestly, I can't believe i lived without this thing. My girlfriend got jealous, cause I wouldn't put it down last night!:cheesygri

[boubouq]

Will this remote work with Shaw HDPVR? Or should I buy a special model?
Thanks:)

[MikeAK]

How good are these remotes? It seems like everyone wants one of these.

I picked one up at last night and have to say I am impressed. I have only used those cheap universal remotes in the past that only ever did the basics and always had me grabbing the factory remote to excess menus and other advanced keys. With the LH550 I am shocked at just how precise and customizable it really is. From only playing around with it for a short time I can already tell you it does everything a factory remote can do, including menus and other advanced keys and more.
The thing I like best about this remote is the "Activities" function that lets you activate as many devices as you want into one button. As an example, I can be watching TV and decide I want to stream a movie to my Xbox360 and only have to hit the "Activities-Play Xbox30" button, this will turn on my 360, turn on my receiver and even set the thing to the proper output(xbox360) and to top it off it even switches my TV to the correct output(Comp2). I can now see why these remotes are so expensive.

[h00ch]

Will this remote work with Shaw HDPVR? Or should I buy a special model?
Thanks:)
If your device accepts IR signals, this remote will work with it, period. (Yes)

[boubouq]

Thanks...I have no idea what an IR signal is but the pvr works so it sounds like this remote may work for me! Thanks...and yes I know I must be dumb before millions of people feel the need to point it out to me!:)

[niceguy1234]

$30MIR. Is it a mail-in rebate? or instant rebate?

[MikeAK]

$30MIR. Is it a mail-in rebate? or instant rebate?

You get $30 instant off the regular price and then $30 "easy online rebate". It's just like a MIR only your shedding 3-4 weeks off the return time because you are sending the rebate over the internet.

[Moosebox]

The biggest complain against this remote I've seen is that it can be sluggish and have has a slow response time when changing channels or volume.

Any of you guys that just purchased it share these complaints?

Thanks

[mr_yellow]

The biggest complain against this remote I've seen is that it can be sluggish and have has a slow response time when changing channels or volume.

Any of you guys that just purchased it share these complaints?

Thanks

It is slower to some degree, but you can adjust that in the harmony remote software. each "device" is pre-programmed with inter-key, inter-device delays so there arn't any mix-ups when the remote sends multiple signals in serial.

You can adjust that down to 0 so the channel up and down/ volume, etc.. all react much faster. It won't be as fast as the original remote, but it definitely is a lot faster than the defaults.

[sunny5011]

i saw this a couple weeks ago at curcuit city in dixie outlet mall for 49.99 refurbished

dad didnt let me get he didnt get the difference between it and a normal universal remote

[adrianf74]

The biggest complain against this remote I've seen is that it can be sluggish and have has a slow response time when changing channels or volume.

Any of you guys that just purchased it share these complaints?

Thanks

When you have a problem with delay times, you can also open a ticket with a Harmony Tech Support rep and they'll play around for the device delay times (as noted for others) for you. Much easier since they have access to what works best for which device/model number.

[MikeAK]

The biggest complain against this remote I've seen is that it can be sluggish and have has a slow response time when changing channels or volume.

Any of you guys that just purchased it share these complaints?

Thanks

Actually that is another setting you can customize. This is direct from the remote software program you use to customize:

"Power On Delay. When a device receives a PowerOn command, it takes a certain amount of time to "warm up" the device and resume normal operation. For most devices this happens very quickly, but for some devices, such as televisions and receivers, it can take up to 3000 milliseconds (three seconds).

Inter-key Delay. When a device receives an infrared command the device is considered"busy" while it processes the command. The amount of time required before the device will respond to another command is known as the inter-key delay, and normally ranges from zero to 300 milliseconds. Devices with long inter-key delays take longer to respond to multiple infrared commands (e.g., when changing television channels).

Input Delay. When a device switches inputs (e.g. goes from Video 1 to Video 2) the device is considered "busy" while it processes the command. The amount of time required before the device will respond to another switch input command is known as the input delay, and normally ranges from 500 to 3000 milliseconds. Devices with long input delays take longer to change inputs.

Inter-Device Delay. When an infrared command is sent for a particular device, each device in your system will receive the command, but only one will respond to it. The other devices will ignore the infrared command. Sometimes, when this happens, a device will ignore the infrared signal and then stop accepting infrared commands for a period of time. This period of time is known as the inter-device delay. During this time no infrared signals are generated by the remote. In rare cases this delay can be several seconds."

I didn't want to mess with the TV's warm up time and risk screwing it up but I did change the other 3 to 100ms from the 500ms(program default). I can say everything has been instant, maybe the people you heard from who are having problems with response time either didn't know there was an area to change the speed or the remote itself is defective. Hope this helps

[mahjongmaniac]

This kinda bothers me since it's clearly stated in their policy that they don't price match rebates of any sort. Willing to post a copy of your receipt? Then I'd be taking that to FS.

that is why these types of deals involving PMing of MIRs are YMMV.

not everyone will be able to get a PM.


BTW, what's vague about their policy is that "rebates" doesn't explicitly specify rebates of the "instant" type or the "mail-in" type...
altho they'd prbly assume that we think it only applies to the mail-in type, since "instant rebate" is the same as "instant savings"...

--------

Well i went back to future shop last night, got them to price match the dell offer. The first lady refused to do it because it didn't ship same day. I eventually got to speak with a manager and she approved it. I ended up paying $74.79 In total with their 10% price beat. I think paying an extra $5 is worth not having to wait 6 weeks for a $30 rebate that Staples offers.

actually, their ERs can be as quick as 3-4 wks turn-around time...

it's only if there are prblm(s) w/ your rebate submission that it may be delayed....

[spinbot]

Getting close to Christmas.. i'm hoping to see the 880 go on sale -- crossing fingers. Although, tempted to buy this, leave in box for 30 days, just in case :)
Already running the H659, but its dying.

BTW... I wouldn't suggest buying a used Harmony as if the previous owner used it a lot, it could die sooner than you want ( just wears out ).

[Moosebox]

Awesome, thanks for the responses guys. Knowing that you can adjust the responsiveness in the software is great to know, and pretty much make the complaints I heard a non-issue.

Definitely gonna add this to the Christmas wish list.

[cpoole]

Will this remote work with Shaw HDPVR? Or should I buy a special model?
Thanks:)

I have this remote and the shaw HDPVR - it works fine with the PVR.

[Aske001]

The Harmony remotes are very adjustable if you really need to get into the details. In addition to the adjustable delay times mentioned above, you can also adjust the number of repeats that each command sends. Infrared control commands are actually repeated from 2 to 5 times by the original remote in order to be sure that the command was sent and received correctly - the receiver knows that it got a good command if it sees at least 2 identical repeats in a row, and it knows that the command is over when there's a gap in transmission at least as long as the minimum inter-command delay. If your programmable remote repeats the command too many times, or with too long a gap between repeats, it will be interpreted by the receiver as two commands - e.g., your TV will change channel twice, or the volume will jump by two steps instead of one. If it doesn't repeat enough times, or it repeats too quickly, commands will be recognized erratically. And if you have a lot of trouble getting it right, the Harmony remote can learn the command in "raw" mode, where it just records the whole thing including repeats instead of trying to break it down.

[Phils]

I bought this remote yesterday from Bureau en Gros. I intended to use it in my bedroom. After setting it up, I realized that it isn't going to work for me for 2 reasons - one that's probably fixable and the other probably not:

1. My TV is a combo Magnavox TV/DVD from Costco. I initially had lots of problems cycling through inputs because the menu needs to appear before the input button changes inputs. So when I want to go from AV1 to AV2 the button needs to be depressed 2X - once for the menu and once to change inputs. Tech support was able to fix most of this problem but there's one issue that remains. When it cycles through the inputs and needs to pass by the DVD option it stops there. I guess it's because the DVD mechanism engages for a second or 2. If I'm already past the DVD option it's fine. The discreet input selections don't work on this TV. I suppose I choose "Watch DVD" first and then watch TV but that's kludgy. Anyway by 7:00PM yersterday, they weren't able to fix it.

2. Sleep mode on the TV - I use sleep mode at night so that the TV will turn off about an hour after I expect to fall asleep. That'll put the harmony out of synch with the status of the TV. I'm not even sure there's a button for sleep mode on the remote although I guess can teach it, if necessary.

Any ideas? If I can't get this fixed, I'll either return it or maybe use it in another room where actually it will do better with a more complicated setup than what I'm using it for now.

[Aske001]

Phils, you should post this type of question in this forum: http://www.remotecentral.com/cgi-bin/mboard/rc-harmony/list.cgi

But to answer your questions briefly:

1. You can program macros (sequences of commands, including delays of several seconds) for the Harmony remotes. It's easy enough to customize a control sequence for whatever you want to do. But I think you're describing a very difficult situation to program if your one-button input-change sequence can start at an arbitrary point in the cycle and has variable delays at different points in the cycle, and there are no discrete commands. No programmable remote will do what you want if the Harmony can't do it.

2. Several things can cause your Harmony remote to get out of sync, including the Sleep situation you describe, or just someone blocking the remote for a moment during an on/off sequence. Harmony does have a solution - the Help button walks you through the process of getting it back into sync easily. Or you can just do what I do - put my hand over the front, hit Off, then turn off any devices that are left on manually - voila!, back in sync. :)

[Phils]

Phils, you should post this type of question in this forum: http://www.remotecentral.com/cgi-bin/mboard/rc-harmony/list.cgi

But to answer your questions briefly:

1. You can program macros (sequences of commands, including delays of several seconds) for the Harmony remotes. It's easy enough to customize a control sequence for whatever you want to do. But I think you're describing a very difficult situation to program if your one-button input-change sequence can start at an arbitrary point in the cycle and has variable delays at different points in the cycle, and there are no discrete commands. No programmable remote will do what you want if the Harmony can't do it.

2. Several things can cause your Harmony remote to get out of sync, including the Sleep situation you describe, or just someone blocking the remote for a moment during an on/off sequence. Harmony does have a solution - the Help button walks you through the process of getting it back into sync easily. Or you can just do what I do - put my hand over the front, hit Off, then turn off any devices that are left on manually - voila!, back in sync. :)

Thanks for your response but after playing with the remote for many hours yesterday and working with technical support, I don't think this is going to work for me. I've programmed macros before on my Kameleon remote control and the reason I bought the harmony was that, as you say, it's impossible to predict how many inputs to skip to get to where you want to go.

The entire reason I bought this is that I'm away a lot and my wife is a bit remote control challenged in dealing with multiple inputs and I was hoping this would ease her frustration. It might work for awhile but if anything goes out of synch, she'll be totally lost with this remote. Getting her to use the help button to synch everything up is wishful thinking.

That being said, my home theatre setup in my den, although more complex as it involves extra components, should work very well with the Harmony. I'll probably just use it there.

[supracor51]

will the 550 work with expessvu 6000 high def. reciever?
thank you

[Aske001]

will the 550 work with expessvu 6000 high def. reciever?

The short answer to all such questions is "yes", since Harmony already has almost every commonly-used device in its database (or at least a generic version that works for that manufacturer), and you can always learn the commands for any new device.

It normally takes 3-4 months for the control set for a newly-released device to appear in the Harmony database. The first set that appears is usually a generic set of codes for the same manufacturer, with a minimal copy-and-rename from an existing set. A few months later customized command sets added by users start to appear as they are verified and compared by Harmony. If you want to verify whether Harmony already has control codes for your device in their database, you can open a Test Drive account here: http://members.harmonyremote.com/

[nopn]

anyone try to use it for more than 1 tv ?


can you give me some direction ?

[AlphaTrion]

i saw this a couple weeks ago at curcuit city in dixie outlet mall for 49.99 refurbished

dad didnt let me get he didnt get the difference between it and a normal universal remote

The remote you're referring at TSCC in Dixie is the 520, not the 550.

[kev_eh]

In case not already posted, noticed that the price (w/ instant and mail-in rebates) was valid in-store too. 2 left @ Calgary Market Mall Location...

...or gamble on one of those 'hit and miss' OMs at FS for an even better deal.

[niceguy1234]

You get $30 instant off the regular price and then $30 "easy online rebate". It's just like a MIR only your shedding 3-4 weeks off the return time because you are sending the rebate over the internet.

For the easy on line rebate, do I need to mail the bar code and the purchased receipt?

[Phils]

For the easy on line rebate, do I need to mail the bar code and the purchased receipt?

Nope

[MikeAK]

For the easy on line rebate, do I need to mail the bar code and the purchased receipt?

No, there is no mailing needed. They give you a duplicate receipt that has a number underneath the bar code to enter in. The process only takes about 5 mins and has you entering in stuff like date of purchase and item number... It's really quite easy.

[MikeAK]

anyone try to use it for more than 1 tv ?


can you give me some direction ?

The LH550 works with up to 15 devices. Unless the 2nd TV is an exact match(make/model#) of the 1st one then I honestly can't see you having any troubles controlling more then one TV, all you'd have to do is switch back from each device when you want to enter in a command. If the 2nd TV is the same as the 1st then you might have a hard time changing channels and other commands on 1 without the 2nd TV responding as well. I use a 2nd receiver as a pre-amp and had no problems adding and using it along with my main.

[muggles11]

Anyone find a store in the GTA with stock?


TIA.

[prying eyes]

dID u try ordering by calling staples...maybe that would work...and free shipping too..Anyone find a store in the GTA with stock?


TIA.

[Ropey]

Price matched with NCIX. Now let's see if it works. It's about 90.00 diff. LOL

[belfour]

ppl with the 550.. does your glow automatically turn off after the time you select? Mine seems to stay on until I push the glow button.

(Maybe I should do a firmware update...)

[kelvin]

ppl with the 550.. does your glow automatically turn off after the time you select? Mine seems to stay on until I push the glow button.

(Maybe I should do a firmware update...)

mine turn off automatically, but it's very sensitive, a little vibration on the table, glow's on. it'a a great remote, only complaint is the vol. and ch. buttons r so stiff. great deal!

[belfour]

oh... i was still holding it, so that's probably why.

[TheZodiac]

My Guide takes forever to come up on my Bell PVR 5900, how do I fix that and do I always have to switch back to TV for my volume?

:confused: :confused: :confused:

[MikeAK]

My Guide takes forever to come up on my Bell PVR 5900, how do I fix that and do I always have to switch back to TV for my volume?

:confused: :confused: :confused:

Sounds like you haven't spent much time in the program setup. You should be able to increase the response time as well as switch the volume control to which ever device you want. Spend some time in the program and you'll find a tun of tweaks that can be made. ;)

[rambokid]

I guess I had the best deal ...

I used a $20 off $100 mail coupon (I added an overpriced $0.59 ruler), don't ask, got it on mail for instore use.
In the car, tried the Activities button, Harmony said low power and shut itself off, WTH. Went back in the store, shown to the manager, he gave me 4 new AAA Duracells :lol: .

I (and manager) didn't know 4 extra batteries are in the package :D .

Wow, great remote, it controls all my A/V equipments. I believe it is a challenge for none techies, specially for all the advanced buttons. Then again, they should not be using the advanced buttons to begin with.

How to print the device config?

[belfour]

I guess I had the best deal ...

I used a $20 off $100 mail coupon (I added an overpriced $0.59 ruler), don't ask, got it on mail for instore use.

I had that coupon too. :cheesygri So I searched the 50% off clearance rack and found a $.39 hard cover portfolio.

[mahjongmaniac]

In case not already posted, noticed that the price (w/ instant and mail-in rebates) was valid in-store too.

this deal was advertised in their latest flyer... so there's no reason that it's not valid instore.

i think most ppl bought online b/c there was free s/h ($50+ purchase)...

[rambokid]

Any quick way to reorder the devices other than start over?
Reorder is only for activities.

[BobyYoo]

I guess I had the best deal ...

I used a $20 off $100 mail coupon (I added an overpriced $0.59 ruler), don't ask, got it on mail for instore use.
In the car, tried the Activities button, Harmony said low power and shut itself off, WTH. Went back in the store, shown to the manager, he gave me 4 new AAA Duracells :lol: .

I (and manager) didn't know 4 extra batteries are in the package :D .

Wow, great remote, it controls all my A/V equipments. I believe it is a challenge for none techies, specially for all the advanced buttons. Then again, they should not be using the advanced buttons to begin with.

How to print the device config?

are you saying that you have a staple $20 off coupon with $100 purchase?

so meaning, you got it for $100+taxes - $20off coupon, and minus the $30 online rebate????

you can use the $20 coupon instore??

[shoppingx]

are you saying that you have a staple $20 off coupon with $100 purchase?

so meaning, you got it for $100+taxes - $20off coupon, and minus the $30 online rebate????

you can use the $20 coupon instore??

guess he could


I guess I had the best deal ...

I used a $20 off $100 mail coupon (I added an overpriced $0.59 ruler), don't ask, got it on mail for instore use.
In the car, tried the Activities button, Harmony said low power and shut itself off, WTH. Went back in the store, shown to the manager, he gave me 4 new AAA Duracells .

I (and manager) didn't know 4 extra batteries are in the package .

Wow, great remote, it controls all my A/V equipments. I believe it is a challenge for none techies, specially for all the advanced buttons. Then again, they should not be using the advanced buttons to begin with.

How to print the device config?

[rambokid]

are you saying that you have a staple $20 off coupon with $100 purchase?

so meaning, you got it for $100+taxes - $20off coupon, and minus the $30 online rebate????

you can use the $20 coupon instore??No. It was $100 - $20 coupon = $80 + tax - $30 rebate + 4 new Duracell AAA :D . I ignored the $0.59 filler just to make it simple.

How to reorder the devices????

[dealguy65]

I have the 520. Put all remotes away after buying. My wife (the final test) now uses the Help feature vs calling me. Cheaper than a divorce lawyer.

I have a 42 Westy tv, JVC reciever, Motorola dct6200, DVD Player and a VHS. I'm going to change the dimmer light to a remote one as well. I wish my fireplace had a remote, that would work to. Only the devices being used are on, the others turn off. The TV switches input each time as well.

With my Harmony 659 and some x10 modules I have it controlling anything that is plugged into the wall. (lights, heater, blender, fans, aquarium). Harmony remotes are great!

[boubouq]

Thanks for the replies to let me know this will work with my Shaw pvr. I managed to get hold of one! Great deal, thanks.
Does anyone know if I can set a sleep mode. It was mentioned earlier but i didn't see an answer!
Thanks

[eh^]

does anyone know if the harmony will support Viewsat ?

[rambokid]

does anyone know if the harmony will support Viewsat ?Yes it will.

[niceguy1234]

No, there is no mailing needed. They give you a duplicate receipt that has a number underneath the bar code to enter in. The process only takes about 5 mins and has you entering in stuff like date of purchase and item number... It's really quite easy.

If I don't need to mail in the bar code, what about if I return the goods later on, do I get the rebate $ + get the full refund on the goods? That means I can make money on the easy on-line rebate?

[negoo]

after reading this thread i decided to pull the trigger on this deal by PM at best buy today... I bought this for my dad for xmas he is always confused the amount of remotes he has to use for his home theater. Anyway got a PM at BB no problems with the flyer turned out the $62.89 or something like that....

Thanks OP,

I also was checking out the GHIII stand and noticed the last PS3 version there so i picked that up too!

[skategoat]

Does anyone have this remote working with an Expressvu 9200 PVR? Mine works great except the PVR and Swap buttons are not mapped. I managed to custom configure the PVR button but there's nothing in the list for "Swap". I guess I could learn the command but if anyone has this working without resorting to a learn, let me know.

[03terminator]

Thanks to the OP. I just picked up a 550 at the Staples (South Surrey, BC), they had 6 in the lock up. Had to ask for one. They were sold out online.

[Sweet Juicy Bacon]

Went to a Best Buy for price matching, they call the local Staples to see if they have it in stock. Had to wait 10 minutes before they said NO. Went to 3 Future Shops, the first 2 did not honour the price citing the mail in rebate. The 3rd store finally matched the price only because they didn't know about the rebate. It was like pulling teeth. Probably spent 2 hrs driving around the city and used up 1/4 tank of gas. So it seems they're pulling out all the stops to prevent PM on this item. So don't be surprised if you get rejected.

[NsK450]

can this thing controls play/pause/forward...in the windows media player in Vista ???

[consumerPI]

So, should others just buy the one from StOOpleS? As the 10% of the difference is potentially eaten up by the gas money spent and your time all to save $6-$8?

Went to a Best Buy for price matching, they call the local Staples to see if they have it in stock. Had to wait 10 minutes before they said NO. Went to 3 Future Shops, the first 2 did not honour the price citing the mail in rebate. The 3rd store finally matched the price only because they didn't know about the rebate. It was like pulling teeth. Probably spent 2 hrs driving around the city and used up 1/4 tank of gas. So it seems they're pulling out all the stops to prevent PM on this item. So don't be surprised if you get rejected.

[mr_yellow]

can this thing controls play/pause/forward...in the windows media player in Vista ???

To put all the questions to rest about the harmony remote... if your device accepts IR signals, the harmony remote can emulate it. The software included will find your device in a huge database and can program your remote to emulate every button on your existing remote. If your device is not found, then you'll have to "learn" each button, but even then, it's a pretty simple but tedious task.

So if you have a IR reciever on your computer, you can configure it to emulate things on your PC. ie. I have mine that can alt-tab, maximize, volume up volume down, etc... It's a little trickier but it can be done.

[mr_yellow]

Does anyone have this remote working with an Expressvu 9200 PVR? Mine works great except the PVR and Swap buttons are not mapped. I managed to custom configure the PVR button but there's nothing in the list for "Swap". I guess I could learn the command but if anyone has this working without resorting to a learn, let me know.

You'll need to learn the button. It's pretty easy. go to the device tab -> select customize button -> go to bottom of screen -> enter "Swap" in learn new command -> learn it -> then map it to whatever button you want in your activities menu.

[boubouq]

$70 in Costco store (PoCo GVR) for this remote for anyone who missed the deal at Staples.:)

[Phils]

$70 in Costco store (PoCo GVR) for this remote for anyone who missed the deal at Staples.:)


I was at Costco 2 days ago. The one I saw for $70 was the 520 which is the same form factor but missing at least the A and B buttons in the lower right corner of the remote.

[boubouq]

Sorry...I did indeed get it confused and it was the 530, not the 550! Apologies. The 880 (I got that correct because that was the one I was interested in) was $150. I think that is a good price and am thinking of buying the 880.:)

[boubouq]

Sorry, I mean it was the Harmony 520! I am SO confused!!!:)

[mahjongmaniac]

If I don't need to mail in the bar code, what about if I return the goods later on, do I get the rebate $ + get the full refund on the goods? That means I can make money on the easy on-line rebate?

wow you really think stooples are that stupid to not have a system to prevent exactly that... ?

----------

Went to a Best Buy for price matching, they call the local Staples to see if they have it in stock. Had to wait 10 minutes before they said NO. Went to 3 Future Shops, the first 2 did not honour the price citing the mail in rebate. The 3rd store finally matched the price only because they didn't know about the rebate. It was like pulling teeth. Probably spent 2 hrs driving around the city and used up 1/4 tank of gas. So it seems they're pulling out all the stops to prevent PM on this item. So don't be surprised if you get rejected.

um... you have to get one thing straight: they're not supposed to PM MIRs.

they should PM the before-MIR price provided stooples has stock, but in no way should you expect them to PM the AR-price

[03terminator]

Funny, when I asked for the 550 at staples, the clerk had difficulty finding them. They had 6 in a backroom lockup, so you have to be persistent to find them. This may make price matching tough for the competition.

[Prof]

Bought one today to simplify using 4 devices in my home theatre. I had a $20 off $100 coupon that came in a direct mailer plus a small dividend check. Net price after rebate is under $60. Had a few issues with the setup but it seems to be working fine now. Happy camper.

[mdcharlie]

Picked one up on the weekend for a gift. Great price -- Thanks.

[spinbot]

Anyone know when the sale ends or is this just a clearance?

[mdcharlie]

Flyer price is good until Nov. 27th.

[coxdnn]

I just saw this same deal - Logitech Harmony 550 $69.99 - at Costco in Vaughan. They have tonnes of inventory.

[BinaryJay]

Great for Blu-Rays on my PS3...

Oh wait... nah.

[avonord]

Just get this. I just ordered one..


http://www.ritzcamera.com/product/EP17960228.htm

Can't power on from the remote though..

[mrbios]

Just picked one up today. I replaced six remotes; I'm definitely happy with it. Only took about 10 minutes for me to set up.

[4got10]

I just saw this same deal - Logitech Harmony 550 $69.99 - at Costco in Vaughan. They have tonnes of inventory.

Are you sure it was the 550 and not the 520. I've seen the 520 for that prince at Costco but never the 550.

[freakx2001]

Just picked one up today. I replaced six remotes; I'm definitely happy with it. Only took about 10 minutes for me to set up.

I thought this deal was over on the 27th? Thats what I told my wife anyways.. was hoping to turn this into a Christmas present for myself..

[dskingston]

Getting close to Christmas.. i'm hoping to see the 880 go on sale -- crossing fingers. Although, tempted to buy this, leave in box for 30 days, just in case :)
Already running the H659, but its dying.

BTW... I wouldn't suggest buying a used Harmony as if the previous owner used it a lot, it could die sooner than you want ( just wears out ).

I just saw the 880 on sale at dell.ca for 150, FS has it on sale for 200. Its part of deal of the day so not sure for how long, i saw another deal of the day that is still on from yesterday.

[barrist]

I thought this deal was over on the 27th? Thats what I told my wife anyways.. was hoping to turn this into a Christmas present for myself..

I'd like to pick one up in ottawa as well

if not i may just get one off ebay for almost the same price (added shipping costs) http://cgi.ebay.ca/Logitech-Harmony-550-Universal-Remote-Control-BRAND-NEW_W0QQitemZ150186736925QQihZ005QQcategoryZ61323Q QssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem