I dislike the 2 screen tivo setup as well, if someone finds a workaround, please post!

As for the volume punch through, it works perfectly for me, all I did was follow the manual so I can't give you any helpful tips... Tried it 2 different ways and it worked both times, one where it always controlled the tv volume, the other where it always controlls the amp volume.

I do wish the first button press didnt just activate the back light, or that there was at least an option to change this. I think they must have designed it that way for dark conditions where they assume your first press is just to illuminate the display so that you can see it.