And finally, pushing the hash button next to the “System Options” button will bring you to this screen where you can set various remote options.
- Component Controls
Pushing on this button brings up a set of screen items representing your various components.
Pushing the hash button next to the associated component will bring up a series of screens associated with the various on-screen options of that device. For example, pushing the hash button associated with the TV allows you to scroll through the various TV options. Which is what the Page Left and Page Right buttons are for.
- Surround Mode
Finally, surround mode will allow you to change how sound is delivered. I found this option available only when playing a movie where you might want to change from 5:1 surround sound to 2-channel sound.
Other Thoughts
- Button Layout
In general, I liked the button layout of this remote. Once I figured out which button performed a particular function, it was fairly easy to find again without having to look at the remote. As is common with these types of (long) remotes with activity screens, length becomes a problem as one has to reach beyond normal “thumb” reach to get to them. This is not really a fault of this specific remote; it is simply an observation of this type of remote.
Not specific to layout, but I both liked and disliked the joystick I discussed earlier. I really liked the way it worked, but was somewhat concerned about how long it might be before I caught the remote on a piece of fabric, for example, and broke it. It does not have a fragile feeling to it, it is simply a feeling on my part that it might be easy to catch on something.
Finally, this particular remote has been around a few years now and is beginning to show it’s age. Current fashion dictates rounded buttons vs. the squarish buttons, for example.
- Display
Once again, this particular remote has been around a few years now and is beginning to show it’s age. While the display packs a lot of information in the area allotted to it, it is rather low-res, and lacks the high resolution and colors of more current hi-end remotes.
- Ergonomics
I never understood the curved bodies of Logitech remotes until I started using the Monster remote. When I pick up my Logitech remote, I naturally cradle it in my hand the same way because of it’s curved body design. The AVL300 has that squarish body design to match it’s squarish button design. As a result, there is no natural “cradle” point that the Logitech remotes have.
- RF Technology
If a device being controlled make use of RF signals, one can control it clear across your home. If not, Monster sells RF to IR extenders to perform this function. I point this out here, but was not able to try it out as I did not have either an RF capable device or extender to make use of.
Costs and Conclusion
Compared to my Logitech Harmony 670 remote, the Monster AVL300 is miles ahead in features and in general button layout. The 670 may be more ergonomic, but I have never liked the overly small buttons and general layout. After using the AVL300 for a week, I’m not sure I am going to like making use of the 670 again.
Overall, what are the pluses and minuses of the Monster AVL300 remote?
On the plus side:
- Huge database of controllable devices
- Easy to program
- Easy to use button layout
- Lighting control
- Ability to control individual device setup options.
- Rechargeable batteries
- RF technology
On the negative side:
- The software needs an update
- The hardware needs an update
- It’s not cheap!
The Monster AVL300 remote has a lot of nice features going for it. Which it should have as the price dictates that this is a high-end remote control device. This is offset by the outdated hardware and software design. If Monster were to update the design, get it into some retail stores, and market it; I think they could do well against the Logitech steam roller.
Cost: $399.95 MSRP
