I am thinking of exchanging the ProntoNeO for the MX500. I am looking for comments on this remote as used in a system with the Outlaw 950 Pre/Pro. What do you like/dislike. Is there anything you can't do with it, etc.

------------------
MeanGene's Home

I got the MX-500 remote 2 weeks ago and I love it. Much better than the original.

I've had mine for a couple of weeks also and am very happy with it. I'd recommend getting the JP1 cable and a URC remote which can be programmed with commands that you can't get any other way, such as discrete power-on and power-off commands for the 950 and other components (e.g. Panny DVDs and Sony TVs). These are very handy for making fool proof macros for different device modes, as well as reliable system on and system off macros. Learning is definitely easier than with the 950 remote, and the IR transmitter is extremely powerful. The only problem with learning I've had is with the joystick commands from my Samsung SR-T150 HDTV tuner, but eventually was able to teach it.

You can define twenty key names for each of 10 devices, which is much better than trying to remember what you've reprogrammed a button on a traditional hard button remote.

You have real buttons. (I don't like LCD pads).

This would have been a real killer if it was computer programmable, but then the MX-700, it's big brother, is, but for about $300 more.

If you go the URC/JP1 route, be sure to get the nice 950 code spreadsheet that Ellen made for her One for all remote. Check out the Cinema 7+ thread here for the links and general info.

BTW, has anyone figured out if there are discrete codes for the different surround modes, such as PLII-C, PLII-M and DTS?

If I understand the way the MX500/700 work, you need to learn codes from other remotes. If that is the case, you really don't need jp1 to get the MX500/700 to operate your 950. Just learn the buttons from the 950 remote. Now, if you have other gear that you want to control and that other gear has advanced codes or discrete codes, then by all means, get a jp1 capable remote. Or, do like I do and skip the MX500/700 altogether and just use the jp1 remote in the first place

The MX500 is the best remote out there by far. I have three. Only hardbutton (much better than touchscreen --don't need to look at the remote to oiperate) remote with 10 editable displays. Easy to clone too. On the net for $125. Great value.

You might want to check-out www.irclone.com