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Universal Remote Control MX-950 Aurora Review

by Clint DeBoer last modified December 19, 2005
Universal MX-950 Aurora Remote

Universal MX-950 Aurora Remote

Summary

  • Product Name: MX-950 Aurora Remote Control
  • Manufacturer: Universal Remote Control
  • Performance Rating: StarStarStarStarhalf-star
  • Value Rating: StarStarStarStar
  • Review Date: December 19, 2005 19:00
  • MSRP: $ 699
Specifications

MX-950 ‘Aurora' IR/RF Remote
Programming Interface: MX-950 Editor PC application
LCD Screen Size: 1.5" x 2.7" with multicolor backlight
RF Frequency: 418MHz
Range (RF):
Up to 100 feet when used with MRF-250 or MRF-300 RF Base stations
Range (IR line of sight): Up to 50ft
Battery: Lithium Ion Rechargeable Battery
Connectivity: USB 2.0
Backlight: All keys
System Requirements: PC or Mac with USB port, 10MB free hard disk space
OS Requirements: Windows 98SE/Me/2000/XP or Mac OS X with Safari 1.0
Dimensions: 9.625" (L) x 2.3" (W) x 1.3" (H)
Weight: 10.4 oz (with battery)
Warranty: 1 year parts & labor (when purchased from an authorized dealer)

Features:
Support for 255 devices with 255 pages per device
LCD Screen with custom labels
Multi-color LCD backlight
Automatic backlit remote keys
Integrated speaker with sound signaling
Li-ion battery and charger base
Activity (‘Watch' & ‘Listen') buttons
RF capability (with compatible base station)
RF addressing

Includes:
MX-950 Aurora remote control
Li-ion battery
Recharging cradle/stand
MX-950 Editor software
Remote control User Guide

MRF-300 Multi-Zone RF Receiver with RFX-150 Antenna

Features:
RF addressing via 15 separate station IDs
6 addressable IR outputs (independently routed)
Support for 90 components (or zones in a multi-zone system)
RFX-150 antenna module (detachable) for up to 150' range
Individual IR output gain controls for emitters
Multi-zone capable
Built-in IR blaster

Includes:
RF base station
Detached RFX-150 antenna module
2 wal mounts and 6 screws
Two 12-foot connecting cables
AC power adapter
6 IR emitters with standard 3.5mm plugs
Installation manual
Adjustment tool


Pros

  • Sound effects & LCD backlighting options
  • Ergonomic feel with "dual grips"
  • 1.5" x 2.7" color LCD screen
  • Li-ion rechargeable battery with docking cradle
  • IR/RF compatibility
  • Flagship remote feel & performance
  • Fast USB 2.0 updating

Cons

  • Database doesn't contain latest hardware
  • Somewhat dated programming interface
  • Doesn't recharge when plugged in via USB
  • Relatively short battery life

Introduction

My current remote control is Universal Remote's Home Theater Master MX-700. This is an excellent remote control, but was somewhat less impressive once I moved all of my home theater source components to an equipment room behind the listening position. Suddenly, the coolest IR remote I had ever used lost its edge (as all of you who have ever aimed a remote backwards over your head will sympathize). The Universal Remote MX-950 (and MRF-300 RF receiver) was going to provide a new level of convenience by integrating the ability to use RF (radio frequency) in my home theater. Finally, no more funky aiming to control the system - just click and relax.

 

 

 
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