The MX-200 Sidekick Remote ($79 MSRP option)

Last but not least (well, OK, it is least, actually - but still cool!) the optional $79 MX-200 Sidekick remote offers you the ability to do what you've always wanted: give your grandparents or in-laws a remote that they can use without messing up your system. With the MX-200, you can set it up for a single device, usually the cable/satellite box, punch though the volume for the receiver, and set up a macro to turn on/off all appropriate devices.

The three favorite buttons can be assigned to television channels. I chose three favorites that were spread out so as to provide an easy way to jump through the gamut of available channels. The channel up/down controls will fill in any gaps between the three favorites. The MX-200 Sidekick also provides a simple back light button for use at night, lighting up all buttons for easy viewing. I've set up my own Sidekick for Cable TV use and it is fairly foolproof. Now, instead of having to explain my complex remote control system to my mother-in-law, I can simply hand her this small remote and know that she can operate the system with ease and clarity.

Conclusions and Opinions

I simply love being able to leave the MX-200 Sidekick with my in-laws when they come over and know that they will have a remote control they can understand and one that will allow them to watch TV without difficulty.

Quite simply, the MX-700 remote control is the ultimate remote control for home theater use. I've never experienced any better way to control my entertainment system. The programming methodology works and is fairly easy to use. I would say that I went from mild interest to complete enthusiasm after the first download, once I realized the potential of this new remote. Never has my system been more easy to control, nor have I ever had a remote control that my wife learned so quickly without any prompting or instruction from me. The optional Sidekick remote adds a wonderful "ease-of-use" tool for visitors or family members who may not be as familiar with your system. The only potential downside is its $349 MSRP, but compared to competitors like the Pronto Remote, which in my opinion is more cumbersome and not as ergonomic, the MX-700 is a bargain. In addition, the MX-500, which retails at $189, is available for those who can do without the computer interface and want the same great capabilities and performance.

About Universal Remote Control, Inc.
Universal Remote Control, Inc. is one of the world's largest suppliers of remote controls, and wireless and RF hand-held devices to the OEM, and subscription broadcasting markets. The company markets and licenses proprietary technologies, and software programming and related development services capabilities to other industry-related companies and consumer electronics manufacturers. They are a customer-driven organization that is focused on meeting the ever-changing needs of the market place, and are recognized as a developer of innovative, leading-edge remote control products designed to operate a wide range of home entertainment devices.