Oh come on now. No need to get hostile
No but really... It's true though, Hitec is most known for their line of CR servos. The servos on the RN-1 are their HSR series, designed specifically for robotics. They offer feedback (position/current/voltage) and have dual axis mounting. The torque is only rated around 103oz.in @ 6v, but they do have a 333oz.in @ 6v available.
The RN-1 is can be as autonomous as you'd like him to be. After he's been built (or purchased Ready To Walk), he's like you said, a robot that plays out servo positions on command from an IR remote. The beauty of the fella' is the expansion and modifications. He's a learning and developmental platform, not just a fun little toy (as many think). The MR-C3024 board supports up to 24 digital servos, three separate PWM ports, eight A/D ports, i2C, an LCD port, and RX/TX direct to the Atmega 128L chip (TTL). He'll support all your touch, light, ultrasonic, accelerometer, tilt, etc. sensors. He can handle up to four gyros! Though I personally don't know why you'd need that many. Mine's now controlled via a bluetooth module. The RoboBASIC software sucks a little, but what kit software doesn't? I implemented an FM receiver and used my VEX Transmitter for control. Works, but prefer the Bluetooth<>laptop setup. My point being, he's customizable to your design (within limits I'm sure).
Don't get me wrong, Sony, Asimo, and Hubo are awesome robots (I'd shield my eyes in their presence
), but they're also multi-million dollar suckers. You can't even buy one... at least I can't. Japan plans on renting out Asimo to the elderly and disabled, but that's about it so far. It's my understanding that Sony dropped the idea of progressing any further in their robot development due to the robots' inability to produce a substantial profit in the company. Rumor?
I bought RN-1 as a starting point for a Robo-One "J-class" fighting robot. Others are working on making him fully autonomous. It's an "affordable" way to get your feet in the door as far as a good humanoid is concerned. ...at least as far as a hobbyist or consumer is concerned. In any event, I hope this helps clarify where the RN-1 stands some.
BMECH
http://www.bauerindependents.com