Logitech, makers of everything from excellent mice like the MX1000 Laser mouse we reviewed here, to high end digital speakers, also has a full line of high quality Universal remotes. They currently offer 5 models, ranging in price from the $150.00 Harmony 659, all the way up to the $250.00 Harmony 880. Today we will be looking at their mid-level Harmony 676 Advanced Universal Remote. At a list price of $200.00, our expectations are pretty high, but Logitech hasn’t disappointed us yet.

The remote is packaged in Logitech’s usual green and white box, with the remote itself visible through the clear plastic, as well as the 3 included face plates. Included are the remote; 3 interchangeable faceplates in silver, blue and red; an application CD; a USB cable; manual; and 4 batteries.

The base portion is a matte black, and as mentioned, the face plate can be swapped to match your décor, or to differentiate this remote visually from another you might have. “Honey, hand me the remote…no the silver one…no the OTHER silver one”--though why you would need any other one is beyond me. The overall shape and “heft” of the remote is good, with buttons easily reached by even larger hands. Button feel is good with a rubbery surface that grabs nicely and offers excellent tactile feedback. The gentle glow of the buttons is just right for navigating in a dark room--without being obnoxious.

Important buttons are color coded for easy location at a glance, and are grouped somewhat by function; the LCD display is well placed and easy to read in all light conditions. The overall impression is of a solidly built, well-designed, remote.