Help choosing the right remote

[Germtop]

I know this has been asked before but I have very specific questions about it.

Here's my set up:

TV: 46" Samsung LCD 650 ToC series
Receiver: Denon 391 ( I haven't bought it yet but plan on doing so this week)
Speakers: Polk RM8
Blu-Ray: PS3
Future blu-ray player: Possibly an Oppo 93

Basically I'm concerned with macros/activities/sequences. I don't know whether any of these devices have a discrete power. If not then I'd like a remote that has state tracking (remember whether the device is already on.)

Another thing that I'd like to do since I'm planning on buying a region free player is to program the region code changes with macros.

So for example I press a button to watch a region A movie. Then I change my mind and press another one to watch a region B movie. The control should know that the player is already on therefore skip those steps and just input the region code change.

Another plus would be a Lithium battery but it's not required. I just keep reading about Harmony remotes that have battery problems. I don't want to have to change them constantly.

Does this make sense? Thanks for any input, guys.

[Fors*]

Look into a Harmony Remote from Logitech. Perhaps the Harmony One if it fits your budget. They have an extensive database, with discrete commands for all of the devices I have seen. I have never owned a region free player, so I am not so sure about their commands, so I can't speak for that part. I have never had an issue with my remote, as it charges itself on the charger base every night. I have never heard of issues with the Harmony One and it's battery, so perhaps this is the remote for you?

[bobbydrugar]

I can attest to the awsomeness of the harmony one with the PS/3 adapter. Its a little pricy for both and I know logitec makes quite a few less expensive remotes but they all seem to share the basic functionality. You install the software on your computer add your devices configure the buttons and macros (Activities) click the sync button connect the remote and done. silly simple very flexable and highly customizable. Best all in one remote I have ever owned or used.

Thanks,
T

[blujacket]

I've had my Harmony One going on 2 years. Never had a battery problem. I don't leave mine on the charger, and it stays charged a week +. I think all the battery problems are from leaving it in the charging craddle.
It's one of the best things you can purchase for running all your gear. Best $200 I spent.

[Germtop]

Awesome! Is there a limit to the number of macros you can stack?

[LordoftheRings]

Originally Posted by Germtop

Awesome! Is there a limit to the number of macros you can stack?

Nope. ...And you get up to 15 "Activities".

[My_Two_Cents]

Understand, too, that most of the Harmony remotes all do the same thing. The fancier ones simply offer more bells and whistles (color displays, better ergonomics, etc.). The programming software and functionality is the same for all. I was able to get the 880 for ~$80 on a great Amazon sale some time ago. It's an excellent little remote.