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According to Logitech, setting up the Logitech Harmony 880 Advanced Universal Remote is simple. You connect it to your PC, launch the web wizard and follow the step-by-step guide. Pretty much all you have to do is enter the model number of the devices in your entertainment setup, answer a few quick questions, the remote automatically sets up your devices and you are ready to view. Logitech also mentions that you don’t have to macro the specific device – simply press the button for "Watch TV" or "Listen to Music" and be done with it. What’s even more helpful for those of you not up to the details is the Help feature that guides you through a basic troubleshooting system, and you’ll never have to worry about the remote not being incompatible. Logitech updates the list with newer devices as they come out, so all you have to do is connect the Harmony 880 to your PC via the USB connector and the remote control will update the list automatically.

The Logitech Harmony 880 Advance Universal Remote comes with a recharging station, AC adapter, USB cable, Lithium-Ion battery, installation CD and a 1-year limited warranty information. The average price for the Harmony 880 is $249.99.

Initial Thoughts: The overall appearance of Logitech products is always professional, and the Harmony 880 is no different in that regard. The physical appearance aside, we are delighted to see the way Logitech has handled the battery life scenario. It’s reasonable to expect that a remote control with a bright display would consume more power than a group of AA or AAA batteries can lever without having to recharge or replace every other week, so a lithium-ion battery is a clever choice. The display and the supposedly ease of use factor is also appreciated, since setting up remote controls for various entertainment devices and switching back-and-forth between one device to another is hassle with multi-purpose remotes. Logitech has theoretically taken care of this issue as well. The remaining features are also well and good; we especially like the fact that you can update the remote to reflect new devices, and the customizable background, buttons and text is the final touch that makes this product almost perfect.

Although nothing appears to be out of place here, if the remote control can’t deliver on its ease of use promise, that’ll possibly be the most significant drawback. Ease of use is the key with multi-purpose remotes, so hopefully Logitech’s promise will yield pragmatic results to make the Harmony 880 a worthwhile investment for those of you who are looking to cut down on the number of remotes to control your entertainment system. Even though the price is steep, if the remote control performs well, we believe the price tag will be worth it.