I disagree that it's poorly designed. In fact, I consider it a better remote than the 8811 (which I also have but don't use anymore). You can install macros on the power button and all of the device buttons (whether it be shifted without jp1 or unshifted with jp1). Where else would you need a macro? IMHO the omission of dedicated macro buttons was a plus rather than a negative, for me anyway. My system is fairly complex and this is the first remote I've setup that I still like after a couple months of use.

Buy or make the cable and setup the remote with jp1. Use the device buttons in unshifted mode. You'll be glad you did.

Dan