Manage updates with the Download AppLogitech Harmony 659 (black)
Manufacturer: Logitech Part number: H-659BLK
- CNET Editor rating: Not yet rated
- Average user rating: 3.5 stars out of 158 reviews
- More product information:
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Manufacturer info
- Description:
- The Harmony Remote is the world's only remote with Smart State Technology Activity Control. Just press an Activity button such as "Watch TV" or "Watch a Movie", and the Harmony Remote will automatically set-up your entertainment system in seconds without you ever having to program a 'macro'. The Harmony Remote provides simple, intuitive control of even the most elaborate ... Read more
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User reviews
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Easy setup for all but the pathetically inept
by jetjpeep on April 17, 2005
Pros: Fast to program and one button activities are righteous
Cons: transport button placement needed more thought
Summary: This is only my second universal remote and probably the last I'll ever need. It replaced my box of remotes almost instantly due to the easy (fast) setup and ...
Summary: This is only my second universal remote and probably the last I'll ever need. It replaced my box of remotes almost instantly due to the easy (fast) setup and logical button placement (except those darn bottom ones). However for me, the bottom buttons aren't used regularly, making them livable. The backlighting is too cool and the little LCD TV guide is cute. Maybe I owe the ease of setup to all the antiquated peripheral garbage I've setup over the years. Comparitively speaking the setup is short and the benifits are long.
14 out of 15 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Great concept, awful implementation
by mikeb5984 on April 10, 2005
Pros: Very good idea
Cons: ...IF it worked!
Summary: Love the concept. HATE the setup. Inane web based wizard. If you're lucky and it works, you really ARE lucky. For me it did not. Somehow the remote apparently ...
Summary: Love the concept. HATE the setup. Inane web based wizard. If you're lucky and it works, you really ARE lucky. For me it did not. Somehow the remote apparently picked up an IR code it did not understand. The cryptic message did not help. And the help did not help because there was nothing there addressing what to do if the remote did not understand the StartInput command - ??Could not complete the setup until I fixed it so could not get to the Harmony Home page where I just could have deleted everything and started over. Instead, the wizard kept forcing me back to the same 2 screens of possible solutions - none of which identified my problem. Also, had to learn IR codes from the old remote even though Harmony has all my devices in their database. They told me they depend on users for IR codes! And when I balked, their support emailed me the answer was in their FAQs! Didn't give me a clue which article - they're not numbered or indexed anyway. Referring users to FAQs or KBs for solutions is not "support". At least paste the right answer into the reply - you took the 2 seconds to respond anyway! Many options on old remotes were not in the Harmony. So I had to create some commands and learn them from the old remote. You really have to know how your home theater system is "wired", not just have a list of devices and model numbers. That is not adequate to set up activities on the Harmony. Not for the just expert or weak of heart. Box should come with a couple of doses of tranquilizers - one for the frustrating experience of setting the thing up, the other for coping with what passes for "support" from Harmony!
13 out of 19 users found this user opinion helpful.
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It did clear my coffee table, but.....
by WARP718 on August 5, 2006
Pros: After CAREFUL programming, it works well- (8 out of 10)
Cons: NO SYNCING / CHARGING CRADLE- (but higher {$$} end units have) it- no RF
Summary: The Logitech Harmony Remote 659 is essentially a midrange PC ( ? MACS ?) programmable remote.
It works well with (AND ONLY WITH!) proper and precise programming of the remote via a USB ...Summary: The Logitech Harmony Remote 659 is essentially a midrange PC ( ? MACS ?) programmable remote.
It works well with (AND ONLY WITH!) proper and precise programming of the remote via a USB port on a PC with the included software.
LOGITECH has done an outstanding job, listing the multitude of electronics manufacturers out there, and while my equipment is not that obscure, it is older, and the LOGITECH software listed all of my components, via the drop down screens. The software is very much "wizard like" in its appearance and installation/implementation.
Logitech has done a great job with the overall package, which includes a USB cord to patch the remote in (bluetooth/wireless options would've been REAL COOL-BUT MORE $$!) and of course the software disc, (very easy install) and the instructions and warranty stuff are all enclosed...
AAA batteries are included (a nice perk!)
The remote is VERY similiar to a TIVO ("peanut") remote so users of those systems will be right at home.
You may have to set up the remote several times, as it does complicated macros and other more obscure commands- inputs, levels, ratios, even does lights! EVERYTHING that your device's proprietary remotes can do.
IT IS A COMPLEX REMOTE FOR USERS OF LOW TO MIDRANGE EQUIPMENT- ANYTHING BETTER GO FOR THEIR 880 OR 890 MODELS.
By complex, I mean it is not hard to set up, but does require trial and error- at least on this reviewer's part. You can change any button on the remote to a function you prefer, that's what I mean- it really is a "micro-manageable" remote!
(Most will appreciate this flexibility...)
In LOGITECH'S defense, I had the Harmony 659 controlling my system in less than one hour, and my FIVE (YES 5!) remotes were sent packing (LG TV, TIVO, SONY REC., PIONEER DVD PLAYER, AND SCIENTIFIC ATLANTA HIGH DEF CABLE BOX).
BUT AGAIN-YOU HAVE TO CAREFULLY PROGRAM IT, which is not hard, with LOGITECHS intuitive user interface. once set up that's all you need to do-just use it.
Oh, and one big plus--
LOGITECH also updates their software/firmware via E-MAIL updates periodically.
The build quality is solid, and the buttons firm.
A GREAT REMOTE OVERALL, FOR INTERMEDIATE HOME THEATER USERS.5 out of 5 users found this user opinion helpful.
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A flexible, do-it-all remote that is easy for anyone to use once properly configured
by Kirk H. on August 4, 2006
Pros: Rich database of supported components + learning capabilities = ability to control anything; activity-based operation makes it easy to use; competent technical support
Cons: Web-based interface is OK for initial set-up, but not very intuitive when you need to tweak something.
Summary: I bought my first H659 in December 2004 to use with my main set-up. I liked it so much that I've bought two more since for other rooms. The ...
Summary: I bought my first H659 in December 2004 to use with my main set-up. I liked it so much that I've bought two more since for other rooms. The main advantages as compared to the average universal remote: 1) I haven't found a single thing it can't control; and 2) once you have set it up properly, even the most technically inept can use it successfully. More on these points below.
First, Harmony maintains an incredibly extensive database of components that the remote can be configured to control, both very old and very new. Over time, I have configured my H659's to control 6 different TVs, 5 different DVD players, 3 different VCRs, 2 different satellite receivers (1 with an integrated DVR), and a sound system. Some of these components were over 15 years old, but they were all supported. The only component I've come across that was not directly represented was the Panasonic DMR-EH75V (combination HDD/DVD/VCR recorder). In this case, the web-based interface had me press a couple of buttons on the original remote while pointed at the Harmony's learning port, and it chose another Panasonic model that was reasonably close. I just had to teach the Harmony a few extra keys that weren't represented, and I was in business.
The other key difference is the activity-based method of operation. Your typical universal remote has a slider or set of buttons where you have to tell it what component you want to control. This makes it hard for the less technically inclined to use. Not only do you have to press a lot of keys to get things turned on, set the TV to the right input, etc., but you have to switch back and forth between modes to make routine adjustments. All of this goes out the window with the Harmony. You press the "Watch TV" button, and everything is magically set up as required, plus the user can change channels on the set-top, adjust the volume on the sound system, and change the aspect ratio on the TV without having to do any mode switching. Plus, if something does get out of whack, there is a fairly easy-to-use help function on the remote that can get the components back in sync.
I've interacted with Harmony tech support on several occasions, and I've always found them helpful. For most issues, if you can't figure it out yourself from the website, I definitely recommend calling them as opposed to trying to solve problems by e-mail. Due to the interactive nature of the troubleshooting process, a phone call just works a lot better.
The only problem I've had with one of my Harmony's is that it was dropped on a hard tile floor from a distance of several feet, and the LCD display stopped working. I sent it back for repair, and Logitech sent me a new replacement remote for $40 (instead of repairing the old one, which was out of warranty).
The web-based wizard for initially configuring your remote is relatively easy to use. Where it gets a little dicey is if the configuration does not quite work, or you want to tweak it. It takes some patience and some digging to figure out how to change the details of your remote's configuration to get it working the way you want. However, once you figure out what you are doing, you can set up the remote to do just about anything you can imagine. Also, the remote supports soft-keys that you can program as desired for each activity, which is a great feature; however when you want to make changes to the soft key assignments, it's a pain in the a*s.Updated
Testing, testing3 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Cannot imagine better.
Pros: Easy to use. Strong IR. Actually works as advertised. It does in fact remember the state of device controlled. If you read the instructions, you can do some impressive tweaking.
Cons: Default settings on some devices may need a bit of tweaking. Battery door not snug. All very minor issues.
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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For its 'time', Amazing remote
by faibs on February 7, 2008
Pros: Button Layout and Spacing, Button rubbery feel, battery life, range!
Cons: No Battery Meter, No PVR/DVR specialty buttons (ie Page up/down, Skip/Replay)*see review
Summary: I have had this remote now for 4 plus years.
Excellent remote and never let me down
I have dropped, smacked, slept on, stepped on this remote and it is ...Summary: I have had this remote now for 4 plus years.
Excellent remote and never let me down
I have dropped, smacked, slept on, stepped on this remote and it is still in peek shape!
I have had a bunch of different set ups over the last 4 years and this remote has changed units flawlessly.
The new software that Harmony provides is years beyond its old Web based questionnaire.
I will be purchasing a new harmony remote in the near future as the buttons are no longer responsive, but what do you expected, I abused the heck out of this since day 1, like I said, 4 years ago!
the only down sides where the lack of battery meter so it was always a 'surprise' when the batteries died, and the lack of PVR/DVR functionality, HOWEVER that being said, at the time of release, I highly doubt those were very popular.
At time of purchase, I would definitely give this a 10/10, 4 years down the road, it still performs up to standards with technology minus that little flaw, hence the 9/10
Great remote,
NEVER think twice about buying a Logitech Harmony!1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Worked great for the 1st 4 months
by peterdstewart on December 16, 2006
Pros: software easy to use
Cons: short lifespan
Summary: We've had the remote for about 4 months. It worked great up until 2 weeks ago. Started functioning improperly. stopped sending commands, improperly sends commands, has been shutting off ...
Summary: We've had the remote for about 4 months. It worked great up until 2 weeks ago. Started functioning improperly. stopped sending commands, improperly sends commands, has been shutting off my receiver when I hit the volume button. Having to use the "Help" button to get devices to turn on and off properly. I have reprogrammed this several times in an effort to fix problems but the problems start again almost immediatly. Our neighbor bought the same remote a few months prior and his did the same thing to him and evntually stopped working at all.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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It does as it claims and when it doesn't they have toll free support.
by tom.o on July 9, 2006
Pros: Everthing can be controlled from one remote.
Cons: Some of their information on TV sets is incorrect.
Summary: I am on my 2nd TV set and system configuration and each set up with minimum difficulty. When I had the configuration problem, I called their toll free number, waited ...
Summary: I am on my 2nd TV set and system configuration and each set up with minimum difficulty. When I had the configuration problem, I called their toll free number, waited 20 minutes and spoke to a man who asked enough questions to figure out their info on my TV was incorrect and he reconfigured it for me. I downloaded the changes and it worked. I just replaced my TV and reconfigured it myself. It needed some tweeking of reversing two input designations and BAM it works. This remote is great. The clincher is my wife loves it. She rarely likes any of the toys I purchase. She has told her freinds to get it. That's the real testimonial.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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It's exactly what I needed
by ToadLC on June 23, 2006
Pros: One remote to simply operate everything
Cons: Needed tech support to configure
Summary: Having four remotes to operate our home theater system was getting old. The wife couldn't watch or listen to what she wanted. This cured all of the hassle. I ...
Summary: Having four remotes to operate our home theater system was getting old. The wife couldn't watch or listen to what she wanted. This cured all of the hassle. I had some difficulty setting it up and called tech support. They fixed the problem quickly without any hassle. Two thumbs up!
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Best of the Harmony Remotes
by Oatmeal25 on May 18, 2006
Pros: Easy to program, works through blankets
Cons: Battery Life, 4 batteries, doesn't clean windows
Summary: Of the three Harmony remotes I've used (520, 628, 659) this is the best.
-The 628 has a better button layout than the 659 but both units I ordered ...Summary: Of the three Harmony remotes I've used (520, 628, 659) this is the best.
-The 628 has a better button layout than the 659 but both units I ordered were defective out of the box.
-The 520 buttons and layout are terrible.
-The newer logitech designed remotes may look more stylish but they've lost a lot of the well thought out usablility found in the original Harmony designs.
Highlights
-connects using a standard usb cable
-buttons feel comfortable
-can download tv listings onto the handset
-has a help feature if one or more devices didn't turn on as expected
-retains settings after batteries run out
-highly configurable
-can learn signals from old remotes not found in the online database.
Lowlights
-vcr controls at the bottom are awkward for big hands.
-battery life isn't great
-requires 4 AAA batteries
The prices on these units continue to drop, if you own a coffee table full of remotes pick one up. You'll be thrilled when you press watch TV and everything comes alive.
By pressing one button my remote:
-turns my TV on
-switches the TV to video 1
-turns on the receiver
-switches the receiver to TV
-turns on the AV Switch (you may find this shocking but my Sony doesn't have enough S-Video ports)
-turns the AV Switch to channel 1
-turns on my digital cable receiver
The only warning I'll give is the quality has been sliding since Logitech bought Harmony.1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Logitech
- Part number: H-659BLK
- Description: The Harmony Remote is the world's only remote with Smart State Technology Activity Control. Just press an Activity button such as "Watch TV" or "Watch a Movie", and the Harmony Remote will automatically set-up your entertainment system in seconds without you ever having to program a 'macro'. The Harmony Remote provides simple, intuitive control of even the most elaborate entertainment system for anyone in the family. With the world's only Smart State Database of electronic devices, set-up is a snap. The community-driven database together with IR learning ensures support of all infrared-controlled devices made by any manufacturer, including TiVo, HDVCR, HDTV, Plasma Displays, Monitors, Projectors, Lighting Control, CD/DVD-R, PVR, Satellite Radios, Amplifiers, DVD Players, Receivers, Dual VCRs and even combination devices like DVD-VCR components. With interactive media capabilities, you can select TV Shows, Movies or Music titles from the interactive display. You can even control devices like lights, fireplace and your personal computer!
General
- Remote type Universal remote control
- Remote control technology Infrared
- Dimensions (WxDxH) 2.3 in x 1.3 in x 8.1 in
- Weight 5.8 oz
- Color Black
Overview
- Features Learning ,
LCD display ,
Built-in speaker ,
Memory backup ,
Glow buttons - Supported devices CD recorder ,
VCR, DVD, satellite receiver ,
Home control ,
Radio ,
DVR ,
Projector ,
Amplifier ,
TV ,
Plasma panel - Input device Keypad
- Buttons qty 51
- Max operating distance 40 ft
- Display LCD display
Connections
- Type 1 x USB
System Requirements
- Operating System MS Windows ME,
MS Windows 2000,
MS Windows XP,
MS Windows 98 SE,
Apple Mac OS X - Min Hard Drive Space 10 MB
Miscellaneous
- Included Accessories Software kit,
USB cable,
Booklet - Cables Included 1 x USB cable - External
Power
- Battery 4 x Standard battery - AAA type
Manufacturer Warranty
- Service & Support 1 year warranty
- Service & Support Details Limited warranty - 1 year
Manufacturer info
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Logitech products on Shopper.com
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- Manufacturer:Logitech
- Address:
6505 Kaiser Dr., Fremont, CA 94555
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