A fantastic, flexible, and inexpensive learning remote
The Philips 5107 is a learning universal remote control that's been around for awhile through several revisions and is still going strong. If you are trying to consolidate your remote control collection, it's a sure-fire purchase. If you're looking to replace a missing or broken remote, you'd be better off buying it in a store and I'll explain why.
The thing to remember about universal remotes is that they contain databases of codes used by manufacturers to control devices. New devices come out every year, so if you buy a brand new television, a remote from two years ago may not be able to control it. Ebay sellers often don't know what they've got and may misrepresent the device they're selling. The SRP5107, SRP5107/17, SRP5107WM17, and SRP5107/27 are all very similar remote controls. Also out there in the universe is the related SRU5107 family, which looks very similar but is not the same.
The main difference between versions is in the remote database. The section of the instruction manual listing the built-in codes makes mention of "DB1" and "DB2," referring to earlier or later databases. Also, the most-recent revision to this remote family includes 3D command functions for 3D-capable TVs and Blu-Ray players. If you look at the remote, the third button in the bottom row on the latest version will have a dedicated "3D" button. Earlier versions have an "L2" button here.
Now, because every button except "LEARN" can be programmed on the remote control, lacking a dedicated 3D button will only really matter if you are purchasing the remote to replace your missing or broken original. If this is your reason for buying, buy it at Wal-Mart or some other real-life retailer, because you'll be sure to get the latest version of the remote, and you can look right at it and see what you're buying. On eBay, sellers mix and match stock photos of the various versions and what is pictured may not be what you actually get. I love these remotes and have bought three, but the most recent one was listed as an SRP5107/27--yet what arrived was an SRP5107WM17. The model was printed large as life on the instructions that shipped with the device, so the seller REALLY should have known better. But c'est la vie, I was consolidating remotes, so programming the missing functions was a minor inconvenience--although the built-in Roku code did not control my Roku SE at all, and since the SE is not a very recent device, the Roku code in this remote must be very old indeed.
But pre-programmed database versions and model identification quibbles aside, the 5107 series is a wonderful remote control. The in-built database is very thorough: if your device is covered, very nearly all the original functions will work on the first try. This is a big deal since many universal remotes only give you basic control functions. Not here--exit, info, menu, guide, directionals, it all works right out of the box. If you can't find your manufacturer listed (as I couldn't for a VCR we own), you can enter "9999" and the remote will try every code in its database until, hopefully, you come across one that works. Although Philips warns this can take up to 15 minutes, it had my mystery-brand VCR working in closer to three minutes.
And if there is a feature or two that isn't included by default, you can use your existing remote to train the 5107. You can also use the learning feature to reassign functions to different buttons if you don't like the layout. The four cable-remote-style colored buttons are available for use in every device mode, which makes them freebies for most devices. Programming is very easy.
Another nice feature is that you can program any device to any button--that is, if you want to use the CABLE button to control an additional TV, or the HD button to control a DVD recorder, you can do that. Some universal remotes only allow TV codes to be programmed to the TV button and etc. That is not the case here. You can control up to seven devices. This remote, however, does not do macros (chains of commands).
The keypad is illuminated, but unfortunately the only buttons that light up are the directionals, channel up/down, volume, and device. The number keys and playback buttons are not illuminated. This can be annoying when you're using the remote in the dark.
The buttons feel nice and firm, and the bottom of the remote is nicely textured so that it feels comfortable and secure in your hands, not slick. The unit overall feels well-constructed, BUT the battery door seems kind of flimsy and does not latch on securely. I've never had it come off or get lost (and I own three of these), but closing it up doesn't inspire confidence. The manual also states that you can take your time when changing out the batteries, the remote will not lose its programming while you futz around looking for AA's.
It's a powerful, intelligent, high-quality, low-cost (under $20!), easy-to-use remote control. You just can't go wrong with the 5107!
Verified purchase: YesCondition: Pre-owned