|
The Sony RM-AV2000 universal LCD touchscreen remote control ($179 USD MSRP) is a
great way to consolidate up to 12 of your controllers into one. It's completely
programmable, easy for all types of users to learn and what's more works great.
I must say, this is a fantastic piece of equipment. Very cool. It's quite
flexible and comes with more than enough memory to learn the codes of any A/V
equipment that may not already be pre-programmed. It's most prominent features
include direct-access buttons for all devices and a large touchscreen LCD with
a brilliant blue backlight.
The RM-AV2000 is somewhere in size between a handheld and tabletop unit.
It has small feet and sits at a nice angle on any table, but it's also
compact enough to fit comfortably in your hand. The beauty of this model is that
every button for a particular device is always available, while the labels
still change to reflect their new functions. The touchscreen is very responsive,
and features the brightest backlight I've ever seen. Physical channel up/down and
volume up/down buttons are present, and work regardless of whether the LCD is
first enabled or not. Last but not least, three direct-access macro buttons allow
you to automate repetitive sequences, such as turning the system on or playing a
DVD.
Good universal remotes used to be scarce, but in the past few years
there's been an in-flux of new designs. You've probably seen those expensive,
phonebook sized systems with full graphical interface that do everything
including dimming the lights. No doubt you've also seen the prices that go along
with them -- putting them out of reach of users like myself. Most of the more
reasonable models have limited or non-existant learning functions while others,
including models from Philips, Harman/Kardon, Marantz and Rotel may be priced
higher than you'd like. Enter the Sony. While it has a list price is $179 USD,
users on our message board report that it can be found for as little as $110. At that
price it's hard to beat.
If you're tired of having seven or more remotes on your coffee table, I recommend
that you give the RM-AV2000 serious consideration. It could just save you some
space! For more information, check out the features and specifications on the
next page.
- Daniel Tonks (Remote Central)
rmav2000 rm2000 av2000 rmav-2000 rm-av1000 rmav1000 rm1000 av1000 rmav-1000
| 
