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The array of 12 buttons in two rows at the bottom of the RM-AV2500 is used to change modes – each key corresponds to one of the remote’s built-in devices. These buttons are labeled [TV], [Cable], [Satellite], [DVR], [VCR], [Amp], [CD], [MD], [Tape], [DVD], [M1] and [M2]. Note that the remote is capable of operating any mix of components, so the button labels don’t necessarily need to relate to the type of device controlled.
Another shade of silver...
The top of the RM-AV2500’s case has been painted the same light metallic silver as the RM-AV3100, which more or less matches most modern Sony A/V equipment. In a change from the RM-AV3100, a large portion of the control surface just beneath the LCD has been finished in matte charcoal grey plastic. I’ve commented in the past on my preference for darker colored remotes – they look cleaner longer – and this seems a decent compromise!
Half of the remote’s hard buttons are black rubber topped with white silkscreen printing, while the rest are white rubber with black printing. All buttons have the classic soft and flexible feel that’s found on a large number of other remotes. I particularly like the RM-AV2500’s large, angled channel and volume toggles – right up a volume-tweaker or channel-surfer’s alley. Little effort is needed to push keys, and overall tactile response is minimal but adequate. Several button groupings have case indents molded around them, which helps to give a visual and tactile separation.
Like many of Sony’s recent remotes, the back of the RM-AV2500 is made out of matte light grey plastic. The battery compartment’s large but simple slide-n-snap style lid securely conceals four AA batteries (not included). Battery life is estimated at 5 months, but without excessive backlight use a longer runtime should be possible. A low battery warning is provided. All sides of the remote taper in from the top surface to the bottom, creating a smaller footprint that’s reasonably easy to hold in one hand. A concave indentation has been carved into the back of the remote’s thickest portion, big enough for the remote to sit comfortably on an armrest or leg.
Most of the front end of the remote is taken up by a large curved plastic shield covering the dual infrared emitters. On the opposite end of the case is a place to attach a lanyard – a curious inclusion on almost every Sony remote. I really wouldn’t want to swing this remote by a cord!
The RM-AV2500 is constructed differently than the RM-AV2100 – a welcome change as the RM-AV2100 had the unfortunate reputation of quickly developing “creaky” characteristics. This time, the back half of the case is fitted into the silver top. This improves general rigidity and completely avoids the connecting seam that normally runs around all edges. Topped off with 5 screws, the end result is a solid feeling remote that’s resistant to lateral twisting (although perhaps not quite as sturdy as the 8-screw RM-AV3100).
Overall, the RM-AV2500’s new design is a significant improvement over the RM-AV2100.
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