The Bottom Line
I was impressed with how easy the remote was to setup. I'm having a hard time learning all of the buttons but I think that is more of me getting used to a new device than the device being complicated to use.
- Easy to setup
- Program guide displayed on remote
- Easy to read LCD screen and buttons
- Connects to Internet
- $400 MSRP for a remote control
- Bigger than most remotes
- Learning curve getting used to remote
Description
- The remote uses the Internet to display the TV program guide, top news/sports stories and the local weather forecast.
- The remote has an illuminated screen and buttons. Text is easy to read and on-screen instructions are clear.
- The ARRU449 uses rechargeable batteries so it must be put on the charger periodically.
Guide Review - First Impression: Acoustic Research Universal Smart Remote, Model ARRU449
The inside of the package was also nice. The remote and charging base were packed in secure plastic molds, which makes me feel comfortable that this product would ship under normal transportation conditions without damage.
Configuring the ARRU449 was a piece of cake. The first thing I had to do was charge the remote for a couple of hours because it uses a built-in rechargeable battery. After the charge and after reading the instructions, I installed my TV and satellite receiver.
This process was easier than I every could've hoped for. All I had to do was watch the LCD screen on the remote and follow the easy to understand instructions.
The remote detected the available wireless Internet signals. I accepted my home network. Then I flipped through a couple of buttons and selected my TV manufacturer and scrolled through the remote codes until my TV responded. I then did the same for my satellite receiver. It really was that simple.
As far as using the remote, I am still getting to know it so please don't consider this review as a ringing endorsement of this product. But, at first glance this remote looks like a good product to own if you want to drop $400 for a remote control.
