I am looking to get some help from the pros. I have read a tremendous amount of reviews and used the Clicker Picker but still don't know which would be the best remote for me. Here is what I am working with:

Mitsubishi HD 1080 TV
Yamaha HTR-5660 Receiver
Toshiba SD4800 DVD
Tivo Series 2 DVR
Scientific Atlanta Explorer 4200HD

I can use either an LCD or Hard Button remote, but I think a hard button remote might be best since I have a 1 yr old who likes to play with the remotes and tends to either drop them or try to eat them. WIfe usually leaves them on the couch where he can get at them when I am not home.

Didn't really want to spend more than $400 retail (can usually get it cheaper anyway) but I am open to suggestions. I know that this is normally a place for pros, but I hope that the pros can help me since I am drowning in info!!

Thanks in advance.

mx800

Mx-700 for an IR only remote.MX-800/MRF-250 for RF control.
The MX-850 has a few advantages over the 700/800 but is pushing your $400 limit.

If you want a remote that won't make you cry when your kid destroys it, the MX-350 will control your equipment with no problem. But it isn't as much fun to program(compared to the PC programmable 700/800/850) But, it retails at $150. For another $100, you can add the MRF-250 giving you RF control.

All of the above will allow you to set up 1 button macro's.Press DVD, your watching and controlling the dvd. Press TIVO, your watching and controlling the tivo,etc.,etc.

I feel the PC based remotes are more than worth the extra $'s, from a programming standpoint. And changes are a lot easier. Not that the MX-350 is hard, it's just easier with a PC based remote.

I'm also spoiled by The RF ability, wich you may want to consider. When you have an 'all on' macro or 'all off' macro, you don't have to keep the remote 'pointed' at the components for the required 3 or 4 seconds until the 'commands' have been sent. Plus, it works great if you have patio speakers and want to control the system from there.

Found a guy selling the MX-850 and MRF-250 for $260 plus $20 shipping on Ebay brand new. Think I may go with that one since it is only slightly more than the MX-800 is selling for there. He also includes a 2 yr warranty so there doesn't seem to be any downside!

One quick question though, is there a difference between the 850 Aeros and the 850 Orion?

This message was edited by godhead7 on 04/08/05 05:54 ET.

No difference between the Orion and Aeros. Just a name change for legal reasons. You made a good choice but chances are for $260 you may have waranty issues. The price is too low and Universal is cracking down on unauthorized internet dealers.

Cool. Thanks for all the help everyone!