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REVIEW: Philips Electronics Pronto remote control Other -- Home Theater

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Model: Pronto remote control
Category: Other -- Home Theater
Suggested Retail Price: $399.00
Description: Universal learning remote
Manufacturer URL: Philips Electronics
Model Picture: View

Review by Glen B on September 18, 2001 at 00:17:55
IP Address: 162.83.171.210
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for the Pronto remote control


I recently purchased the Pronto TSU2000 "Intelligent" universal learning remote to replace a Sony RM-AV2000. The Pronto runs circles around the Sony unit.

With a little practice, learning to program the Pronto is a breeze. Any function can be assigned to any button and that button can be renamed to a choice of your own, unlike with the Sony unit, where the names cannot be changed and in some cases, it will refuse to learn the code for a specific operation or series of operations. With the Pronto unit, unused/unwanted buttons can be hidden for a more custom and uncluttered appearance. I have not yet gotten around to programming macros, but judging by the ease of programming individual components, that will probably not be difficult.

Although the Pronto comes pre-programmed with hundreds of IR codes for various component brands, the list is not all-inclusive. My Classe components and HK preamp/processor are not listed. But wait, here's where the fun begins. The Pronto has the ability to search until it finds codes that will operate unlisted components. One just has to point the Pronto at the component and hit "search." The Pronto was able to find codes to operate all of the remote functions on my HK preamp/processor, Classe preamp and CD player.

My original Classe CD player remote does not have a tray open and close function, yet the Pronto is now able to perform this function. Why would I need this function when I have to get up and change the CD anyway you say ? My stereo components are in a rack to the side of the listening spot, facing forward. I normally just reach over and swap CDs. The open/close button is on the far end where I have to really stretch to reach for it. Sometimes I end up double pressing this button causing the tary to open and immediately close. Having the open/close function on the remote makes life easier.

On the downside, the contrast control of the Pronto needs periodic adjustment, which I find a bit annoying. The screen could be brighter and the icons sharper. A set of AA batteries is claimed to last for 6 months of normal use, yet I found that just a couple of hours of programming and becoming familiar with all the features of the Pronto caused the batteries to lose some 25 percent of their charge. I solved that with a purchase of the Philips DS1000 Docking Station rechargeable NiMH battery pack and charger.


Product Weakness: Screen could be brighter. Contrast needs constant adjustment.
Product Strengths: Easy to customize and use. Ability to learn codes for and operate virtually any component. Wide IR operating range.


Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier: n/a
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated): Classe CP-45, HK preamp/processor
Sources (CDP/Turntable): Classe CDP-.5, Pioneer, Mitsubishi, RCA, Panasonic, Zenith sources
Speakers: n/a
Cables/Interconnects: n/a
Music Used (Genre/Selections): n/a
Other (Power Conditioner etc.): n/a
Type of Audition/Review: Product Owner




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Topic - REVIEW: Philips Electronics Pronto remote control Other -- Home Theater - Glen B 00:17:55 09/18/01 ( 0)