Customer Reviews:
 Fantastic October 15, 2008
I had a few universal remotes, but none would correctly operate both my LG hdtv and Sony receiver--especially with volume passthrough. This remote works perfectly. The included program codes got almost every main function, though understandably I needed to use the learning function to program more advanced controls of my receiver, as well as some things on the tv (like ratio mode). The learning function is easy to use, took me less than a minute to get everything programmed I wanted to. Switching the tv volume to operate the receiver's was effortless.
That said, I have an excellent memory, so I know where I put all of the miscellaneous functions I use a lot. There are a limited amount of "free" buttons on the remote to program things to, and the ones that are aren't exactly aptly labeled. It'll work fantastic just for the basic stuff (channels, volume, switching inputs, component power). If you're wanting anything more advanced, you should look closely at the picture and see where you're going to put things ahead of time.
Macros work well, easy to use. You can use 16 button presses, but remember that you'll have to hit the component buttons quite a bit if you've got a lot of equipment (for example, you can at maximum power on/off 8 devices with one button. Device 1, Power, Device 2, Power, etc.) So if you're trying to do a lot of functions, you'll need to optimize your macro by doing all the functions for one device before starting the next. Also keep in mind that many new tv's have a pretty long startup period, so making a macro of (TV, POWER, TV/VIDEO [input select]) may not work properly. There's a way to set a delay, or you can put other commands in between, but bear in mind that it might limit you if you're trying to chain a whole string of commands through your whole home theater. You can also program macros to the component select buttons, which I haven't tried.
Overall, I'm quite happy with it. I"m planning on building an htpc later this year, so I'll try to update with how well it functions with a more obscure remote.
Best Value Learning Remote October 13, 2008
1 out of 1 found this review helpful
I have equipment that does not use the built-in codes, like an Olevia LCD, U-Verse Cable Box, Extreme Mac Speaker. This remote had 5 step to learn each buttons from old remote by pointing the old remote to the Sony Learning Remote and it records each buttons signal. I purchased a GE brand from home depot for the same price prior to this Sony, but I returned it because learning instruction was too complicated and buttons seemed flimsy. The Sony Remote has a decent feel and sturdy case and soft buttons.
 Does what it's supposed too, just not for me October 6, 2008
1 out of 2 found this review helpful
This remote did everything I expected it to do and then some. The learning feature was very cool, tedious but cool. It worked well with most of my components and was seamless in it's set up. Unfortunately I jumped into the universal remote scene expecting it to immediately fix all my multiple remotes problems. After switching the remote form T.V. back to cable back to T.V. over and over again to change the volume i realized that although cumbersome, it is sometimes easier to have multiple dedicated remotes.
Amazing, easy to use, buy it now...... September 30, 2008
1 out of 1 found this review helpful
First a little history:
I have a couple of TV's whose remotes have not been able to survive my children's abuse. Also, I got tired of switching from one remote to turn on the TV, another to play/watch DVD, then my cable, etc.. I saw so many good reviews on this that I bought two, figuring I could return them if I was not happy.
The Bad:
Okay, so I don't really have anything bad to report. You need to read the instructions and all will be made clear. Also, you need a little patience, not much, but a little.
The Good:
So, once I read the instructions (I have never used a learning remote before) I was just amazed! At first I was a bit upset because it did not control all of the functions I wanted.....well, a bit more reading (yes, I'm one of those guys) and voila, I was programming the remote with ease and within 5 minutes had ALL of the functions from my cable remote added to this one. I am so thrilled with this remote, I highly recommend it. I really thought I was getting something that would have freed up one control, I never really believed I would only have to use one remote for everything.....well, I believe now.
At first you might find that the code you enter does not completely control the machine as the original remote. No problem, just a couple of buttons, and a few seconds and you can manually "teach" the remote. I have not enountered ANY problems yet (I still have a couple of other things to program, so if I find any, I will let you know). There was no code for my Philips HD/DVR, so this is the one I will have to set up manually. Sure it's a PITA, sure some might knock it down to 4 stars, but when you see how many codes there actually are (and yes there are some Philips codes), then you will see why I did not knock it down. I figure I am just unlucky enough to have bought a DVR that there is no code for. No problem, I suspect I can "teach" my new remote every function within an hour.....I just need to find an extra hour.
If you have read this far and did not buy at least one of these, you are doing yourself an injustice. I can't imagine how much better a more expensive remote would be, but frankly, I have everything I need in this one.
 Get help with codes for the RM-VL600 September 19, 2008
2 out of 2 found this review helpful
Sony RM-VL600 8-Device Universal Learning Remote
The list for codes included with the product is inadequate. For example there is no code at all for VIZIO TV sets though they are one of the most popular sets on the market. So you have to use the remote to remote learning method. Two problems occur: 1. The code is not learned at all, 2. The code is transmitted but causing multiple unwanted actions.
Emailing Sony did not produce an answer. Calling Sony Support was not helpful either. I was ready to return the product when I found this site:
http://www.remotecentral.com/cgi-bin/mboard/rc-sony/list.cgi
It helped solve my problems and now I am on my way to productively use this product that does a lot for a great price.
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