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Universal Electronics intros the new Nevo C2 and C3 remotes
These two are the latest addition to the Nevo remote family. First up is the one of the left, which is the C3 and sells for $299. What's really cool here is that it not only works with an optional RF base ($99) but it will also directly control 3rd party RF hardware like the DirecTV DVR. What's also a welcomed addition beyond what the competition offers is that not only can program with a nice web GUI, but you can also program it directly -- so without a computer. The IR only C2 looks much like the C3, but is only $229, the 2.2 inch color screen isn't touch sensitive and it uses standard batteries rather than the rechargeable type included in the C3.
Onkyo partners up with UEI for remotes
Ask three HD-die hards about their favorite remote, and you're likely to get five different answers. We're a tough bunch, and there's no single remote that Onkyo could throw in the box with its receivers that would make everyone happy (just check reader comments for evidence). But partnering up with well-known remote control manufacturer Universal Electronics, Inc. (UEI) certainly can't hurt, right? If things go according to plan, UEI's library of over 350,000 functions across the manufacturer spectrum should make system integration possible. Best of all, the new universal remotes are slated to ship with a range of Onkyo's receivers -- from entry level to high end -- so you don't have to buy into the pricey part of Onkyo's lineup. As always, we applaud anything that makes the couch-potato lifestyle a little more accessible.
Universal Electronics licenses motion control, hopes you don't put your eye out
Ask us what we think about voice control of A/V gear, and you're likely to get a laugh. Gesture-based control, however, is a different kettle of fish. Despite the knocks we give it, simply waving your hands through the air does make you feel more powerful than pressing a designated button. Universal Electronics (UEI) is on the same page, and has licensed motion-control technology from Hillcrest Labs to deliver more of that omnipotent feeling in its remote controls. Hillcrest's Freespace tech has already found its way into the Logitech MX Air, but we'll have to wait and see what kind of usage UEI will incorporate into its products. Creating a successful "10-foot" experience isn't going to be solved by hardware manufacturers alone, though -- optimizing the graphical side of the design is necessary as well.
Universal Electronics' Nevo Q50 remote gets reviewed
Just over three years have passed since we first took a look at Universal Remote's NevoSL, but now the new and improved Nevo Q50 has been taken in by the folks over at Remote Shoppe and tested extensively. In short, the Q50 was widely regarded as a fantastic remote, with a beautiful design, well-constructed button layout and impressive programming feature set. Moreover, the improved battery life and "huge IR library" that's at your disposal sure helped matters, and the only real digs noted were its lack of a tilt-activated backlight, slightly subpar touchscreen resolution and the inability of the NevoStudioPro software to function with the older NevoSL. Of course, with a $699 price tag, this remote certainly isn't for everyone, but if you've been looking for some serious horsepower in a home controller, you owe it to yourself to hit the read link and take a gander.
