Audio Video News

It may not seem logical, but Logitech believes that 670 comes right after 659 - when it comes to remotes, that is.

Logitech is introducing a new mid-range remote control to replace the Harmony 659. The new Harmony 670 is said to add enhancements to the features previously found in the Harmony 659 that are supposed to make controlling multi-component home-entertainment systems easier than before. (That's a tall statement, too, since the 659 made things pretty darn easy already.)

The Harmony 670 includes improved one-touch activity buttons along with a new button layout optimized to control digital video recorders (i.e., TiVo boxes). The color-coded one-touch activity buttons are larger, and the layout has been changed in a way that puts the DVR function buttons in a central location. The new remote also has a high-quality directional pad and is designed much like the higher-end Harmony 880 model. The Harmony 670 is fully backlit and has an LCD window for display of additional controls and custom activities.

Like other Harmony remotes, the 670 uses an interactive Internet-based wizard to guide the user through setup of the remote. The 670, however, is the first of the company's remotes to include the new Harmony 7.0 software which is said to offer an even easier setup procedure.

Logitech says the Harmony 670 is available now for a suggested price of $149.99. Programming using the included software and an Internet connection is free. Having a remote control that lets you, and especially other members of your family, use your home theater system without confusion, agitation, or use of expletives if priceless.