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Russound intros RF / IR-capable RFR-E5 remote

by Darren Murph posted Jan 6th 2008 at 12:04AM


Last we heard from Russound, it was teaming up with Lifeware to create the Viiv-compliant Media Console, but this CES, it's doing it up solo and introducing a svelte new remote. Beyond the slender design, high-resolution display and the mid-mounted clickwheel, the RFR-E5 manages to stand out even further by including support for both IR and RF. The two-way design enables it to act as a "true multiroom remote control," and it can also rely on IP / Zigbee RF to communicate with an ACA-E5 Multizone Controller. Furthermore, you'll find a rechargeable battery, white LED backlighting and a cradle complete with an Ethernet port for connecting to the firm's aforementioned ACA-E5. Sadly, Russound has yet to mention how costly this one will be, but it should be available through certified integrators in Q2.

Niles IntelliControl IC2 remote does it all with no screen

by Nilay Patel posted Jul 30th 2007 at 9:44PM


Although we're unabashed fans of super-complicated macro-and-touchscreen universal remotes, a lot of people just want to smack a button and have their home theater work without having to squint at tiny screens or worry about state-based macro operations. Niles Audio is hoping to to capitalize on that market with the IntelliControl IC2, an all-button RF remote that's optimized to control most home theater devices without the use of a screen. The included HT-MSU control unit / repeater has 8 IR / RS-232 outputs and connects to the IC2 via ZigBee, meaning the system can potentially be expanded further, although Niles hasn't announced such support yet. The company is expected to announce the IC2 at CEDIA in September, but if you're hoping to chuck your Harmony, you'd better start saving pennies: simplicity will cost you $999.

Denon launches programmable RC-7000CI remote

by Darren Murph posted Jul 28th 2007 at 2:12AM


Right on cue, Denon has gone and launched the oh-so-snazzy RC-7000CI remote, which we had the pleasure of seeing a tad early thanks to the FCC. The fully programmable, ZigBee-based remote allows for universal command and control of all Denon remote controlled products "as well as products from other manufacturers," and those with internet access (that'd be you, hot shot) can simply connect the remote to a PC via USB and "program the functionality of all the products in their system" care of the online IR database. Paired up with one or two RC-7001RCI RF/IR Remote Bases (pictured after the jump), the duo creates a multi-room remote control system that allows for "both two-way communication and IR functionality." As with everything labeled Denon, don't expect either of these August-bound niceties to come sans a premium, as you'll be asked to cough up $299.99 for the remote itself, while each base station adds another $199.99.

[Via TrustedReviews]

Continue reading Denon launches programmable RC-7000CI remote

Philips SJM3151 universal remote mirrors your iPod screen

by Darren Murph posted Jun 13th 2007 at 10:21PM

While Philips' latest universal remote lacks the genius design seen in the prototype book iteration, it's tough to deny the utility here. This universal remote may not sport the most luxurious button layout, but it does manage to control up to six devices and play nice with your iPod; moreover, the SJM3151's built-in LCD screen touts the ability to mimic your player's screen, so you can sneak a peek at what's on deck without squinting to see the faraway dock. Interestingly, this remote not only packs the infrared abilities we've come to expect, but it also speaks ZigBee in order to transmit signals "up to 300 feet." Of course, this multifaceted device won't run you cheap, as interested buyers will be asked to cough up $180 to procure one when it lands this fall.

Control4's Home Controller HC-300 outputs GUI in HD

by Darren Murph posted Jun 12th 2007 at 12:58PM

For those looking to make the leap to home automation whilst making sure that elegance is taken into account, Control4 is hoping its newfangled Home Controller HC-300 will fit the bill. The relatively low-cost IP-based home controller offers up a multitude of serial, infrared, and video sensing ports, plays nice with standards-based communication technology including Ethernet, WiFi, and ZigBee mesh networking, and can dictate multi-room music, smart lighting, advanced temperature control, and security without breaking a sweat. Most notably, however, is its ability to output the graphical user interface in sparkling 720p, meaning that you will no longer be ashamed of flashing your home controller's GUI on the big screen. Additionally, Control4 revamped the device by adding an anodized black aluminum chassis and a glossy black faceplate, and it plans on shipping these things out sometime in July for a respectable $699.

[Via CEPro]




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