The search for a "new"
You should be able to control the above-mentioned problem devices, good in the hand, look good and be low. From the photos I tended her actually more to "Smart Control", because my "Essence 4" somewhat frumpy occurred from the product picture forth. In electronics retailer, however, changed my mind. The rash eventually gave the area around the ring (pad). This affects the "Smart Control" is not only extremely wobbly and cheap, but dissolves by the increased hard edge of the surrounding keys also an unpleasant hint of feeling. Quite different is the "Essence 4" :-) The ring in metal optic looks not only quality, but also feels good. All in all, you feel like to hold in the "Essence 4" a far more expensive device in his hand, as it suggests the Amazon price of about 16.00.
Batteries:
The "Essence 4" requires 4 x AAA (Micro). These are NOT included. The online shop of "All for One" true specifies "batteries FREE" at, but it also requires proud 24,99 Euro!
4-digit device code:
Both devices above function with the 4-digit code that can be found on the homepage of "One For All", properly. The keys are not all occupied ideal, but that can be corrected (normally) with the integrated learning function.
Learning function:
Taking the "Essence 4" and the original remote control at a distance of 2-5 cm. opposite, can be according to the manufacturer up to 100 functions learning manual. With 41 programmable keys that means you could teach 2 complete device "by hand" (For example, if no pre-programmed code works) and you would for the other 2 devices still 18 keys that could change over the setting of the device codes.
So far so good. BUT ...
... There is a small handicap. When assigned to the "Essence 4" a device code to (eg Media Center - Code 1272) and subsequently occupied a key manually using the learning function, and the corresponding device code is changed. Say the originally deposited by the device code function is deleted by the "Overwrite" irrevocable and will be replaced by semiskilled function. A resetting (Reset) is not possible. Even an assignment with another device code and then returning to the previous device code does not work because the appropriate button to continue maintaining the semi-skilled manual function.
Normally that is not a problem because you just press again "anlernt" with existing original remote. Unfortunately, use some original remotes (such as the media center) but "changing" signals, ie alternately send 2 different signals. When Teach the "Essence 4" stores (like any other learning remote control) but only one of the two required signals actually. In practice, this means that the same key you can not press two times in a row because of Empfäger waiting for the second signal. If you want now, for example projecting a number of songs, one needs a different key before any further Vorhüpfen press, before - Quiet - Before - Quiet - Before - play - on - play - on). Something annoying of course! The same goes for any other function of the corresponding original remote, such as volume, up, down, etc.
Since most manufacturers use "changing" signals, this problem is more likely to occur rarely. So, at first do not panic! There is a little trick on how to test it, without "broken" to make the preset device code ...
My advice:
First time set prior to using the learning function a device code, which you definitely not required, because you have not the appropriate device ;-) Then 1 or 2 functions manually in this (not required) equipment from the original remote control Teach code and check whether the learned buttons function properly. If there are problems, then works at least still the default key assignment of the right to my device device codes, because I have not changed this.
CONCLUSION:
The "Essence 4" is an ordinary remote control, which fits comfortably in your hand and making you look dibasic. The cast. 41 assignable buttons provide ample space for numerous special functions that can be set up exactly there, thanks to the simple learning function, where you want them. The manual has a logical structure, so that the device relatively quickly of goes. The first device takes a while but then it's quite fast :-) Lack described above does not flow in my review because the positive aspects just too strong prevail. Finally, I can now for the first time all my devices operate properly and there is no for me important function that I had to leave due to fewer keys. Given the low price and the quality look at the device is the current price Leisungs winner for my taste.
Recommendation?
Definitely yes!
