I recently picked up a couple of these remote controls and one had the exact issue touched upon in this thread. I did the "pin prick" method but used a set of dental picks that you can get from Home Depot instead. It allows a more control and will not bend or hurt your finger(s).

It worked like a charm, the remote is 100% operational and has been upgraded with the new firmware. I sealed the indentations with CAIG Pro-Gold, just in case corrosion would be a factor later. www.caig.com

Good luck and thanks folks!

Regards,
Mark
Polk Audio CS