Hi - my TSU-2000 is finally almost deceased, and its time to replace. I like the idea of more hard buttons (specifically, buttons that would operate on screen TV guide as well as on screen PVR) but I still want a real programmable touch screen that I can lay out buttons, etc on. The screen doesnt need to be as big though.

I dont want a tablet-style remote - I want something I can hold and operate in one hand.

I also really appreciate the strength of the IR blaster on the pronto - no wimpy IR please!

I also want to program it myself.

What are my options nowadays? say sub $500 (the more sub the better)

Thanks!

Oh wow - now that I have read more it seems things are pretty dire for me:

Pronto - discontinued, and no touch screen remotes with hard PVR controls anyways
Nevo - discontinued, and questionable if the software is available for DIY? Q50 would be great if I could find one and the software
RTI - software is not available for DIY, T2-C would work but past my price point
URC - MX-5000 would fit the bill, its a bit above my price point, software is available, questionable build quality?

Do I have a pretty good picture of the SOTA?

URC is probably your best bet for a quality remote for a DIYer that wants more than a Harmony; just make sure whomever you buy one from will provide you with the software.

Also, think about whether you *really* need a touchscreen, or whether a remote with a smaller color screen and hard buttons like the MX-880 or MX-780 would fit the bill.

Of, if you're stuck on a touchscreen, the forthcoming MX-1200 might be worthy (and a bit cheaper).

Reasonably inexpensive is the Xsight Touch (Acoustic Research/One-For-All - depending upon where one lives).

Nothing like as sophisticated as the Pronto, and reviews have been a bit mixed (see Daniel's), but I've found it does more than everything I need.

Thanks guys. The Xsight Touch seems similar to Harmony - which would be my choice just due to availability and support.

In fact I think I will give a Harmony a try and if i'm not happy I'm sure I would be with the MX-5000 (has some great 2-way features I really appreciate)

Thanks!

That's quite a contrast!

Well there's not really anything in between with the features I want unfortunately, is there?