Sigh. I've only just begun searching for the perfect remote option, and I'm already frustrated and bewildered that an insanely easy and perfect option has not yet evolved. Why isn't everything web-based and available in a cloud so that I can access whatever I need in the same location? Best Buy's best solution is those shitty Logitech harmony remotes that I'm not wasting my $300-400 on. I went to a home theater store, and the seemingly tech-retarded folks there tried to sell me a 3 to 5 THOUSAND dollar remote (not including programming services). WHY IS THIS SO HARD? I'm only asking for these few simple things:

1) an all-in 1 (actually, not just by claim) to control my Onkyo 3-zone receiver w/ the following connected thereto: samsung UN55B8500 TV, samsung blu-ray, ATT U-verse modem, iphone for music.

2) eventually, I want it to control whatever HVAC system I install in the house (undecided) to make the ultimate smart home complete.

3) must work throughout the entire house (RF, network-connected, etc.). screw it. why stop there? it should work over the web from anywhere in the world.

4) easy enough to use (for a web- and computer-savvy person like myself).

5) last but not least, a simple and logical user interface (think Mac, not Windows)

6) since I'm already asking for the moon, it should be free (or at least <$500)

What is the best option here? Should I hook everything up to a Mac mini and use the computer as the brain? HEEEEELP!

BTW, how long until I can use my brain waves to control devices without lifting a finger. I'm thinking I should just freeze myself for 15 years so that the technology can catch up with my demands.

Dunno about that list of requirements for a remote under $500. Maybe twice that will cover it for the hardware alone.