I'm buying my first UNIVERSAL remote control: are you experienced with them? (connect, system)

[hotornot]

I'm about ready to purchase my first universal remote control.

I know a URC is compatible with TV's. But I'm wondering if a URC will allow me to control the volume on my Logitech speakers. My speakers are hooked up to the sound card on my computer.

I like to watch YouTube music videos on my computer monitor. Will I be able to control the volume with the URC?

I should point out that my Logitech sound system (the Z5500's) came with a remote control, but the darn thing became dysfunctional not long after I purchased it. (Yes, Logitech will replace it for free, but it's a major hassle due to a weird policy they have in place, a freakin' hassle, actually,...so it's time for a URC).

I'm looking at different URC's made by Phillips, Sony, One for All, Universal Remote Controls, all costing around 15-$20 and receiving good reviews at Amazon and Newegg.

[juggler]

Make sure you get a "learning" URC. This is one that is capable of reading and memorizing the codes of any other IR remote when you put them nose-to-nose. Some URCs simply have lists of TVs/DVDs/receivers/cable boxes that you punch in the associated code for, and if your device is not on that list, you are SOL.

I have Logitech's Z-5450 speaker system connected to my TV and can control it fine with my universal remote. Had to do the nose-to-nose programming, as Logitech was not included in the pre-programmed component codes.

[el borracho]

Make sure you program all you components in order , on some Urc's if for example you program the DVD before the stereo it might not work etc etc ,than you will have to reset it which on some urc's will take an act of god to reset read the om completely before you program anything

[harry chickpea]

I've always found Universal Controls to be disappointing. Whenever I attempt to control the universe, something always goes wrong.

I've had to assuage my feelings with a quick reboot to the kiesters of selected components, and a hope that I can fast forward through the worst of the universe.

[Dd714]

I'm going to say yes, it will work. For $15 to $20 you should be in the price range for the learning ones that work when you point them nose to nose, but you might only have 3 or 4 components available to choose to program. URC's can go up to hundreds of dollars (ones that you can plug into a computer to actually program) but the $20 ones should work.

[DDevil]

juggler is absolutely right.
And while you are at it, get a Jumbo URC just for fun

[hotornot]

If the Logitech Z5500's remote control is infra red (and at this point I'm not sure if it is or not), does that mean that I MUST buy a replacement that's infra red?

[juggler]

The Z-5500 remote is indeed infrared, and you will need an infrared URC to control it. With very few exceptions, almost all URCs are infrared-based.