Considering a harmony remote...

[GLE3]

These remotes sound pretty sweet, but the only thing that is stopping me is the price. If I were to buy an old model (like a harmony 880) used for a lot less, what would I be missing vs. a newer model?

Things I've found that may be different between older/newer model:


Better button placement
Ability to create custom sequences
Old model doesn't offer RF
Better looking mini LCD screen


Other than these I wouldn't know if anything else would be different. From what I understand, Logitech offers firmware upgrades with their remotes so I'm assuming it will recognize all the devices a newer model would. If I have my info wrong or incomplete I would appreciate any additional knowledge on the remote.. Thanks in advance!

[Baldrick]

I have using a harmony one for a long time now. It works perfect and the harmony computer software finds ALL my devices, even my noname chinese hdmi switcher.

Yep, they are a bit expensive. But it's worth it if you have several devices and you just press one button to automatic switch between tv, xbox, htpc, dvb, receiver. It can take an hour or so to configure all custom sequences.

[oldfart13]

Harmony newer models you can try like the 300 series for as little as $5 in some stores here in Canada (Real Canadian Superstore) so it's not like you are breaking the bank...

http://forums.redflagdeals.com/harmony-300i-remotes-4-84-clearance-priced-superstore-1301320/

[computeguy]

This is my remote.. it is SWEET but expensive

All the models in the Universal selection are great choices

http://www.universalremote.com/products/residential/remotes/mx-3000

[GLE3]

Thanks for the replies!

@computeguy - Thanks for the link, I haven't really looked into other brands as Logitech Harmony seems to be the popular one. I probably should look at competitors before I make my decision.
　
I did notice the Harmony 200 and 300 they have out now. I think the 300 controls 3 devices and that would work but I have 4 that I can think of right now that I would want to control. I may be expanding in the near future as well.
I can live with the differences I mentioned above if that's all there is to consider. Used prices for the 'higher end' harmony remotes look to me to be in the $50 to $70 range, even remotes Logitech designed back in 2005. I have found the 880 model out there for even less than that. I figured if the remote was basically the same from back then and now, why pay more?