I've read too many negative reviews about Universal Remotes to know which one to choose.

Is there any way to confirm that a UR will work with specific AV equipment BEFORE purchasing and discovering that it doesn't?

I need a Universal Remote that will work with -
Old Analog TVRCA F27443
Converter BoxTIVAX STB-T8
Antennae RotatorChannel Master 9537
DVD Player Sony DVP-NS55P
Media PlayerKaiboer H1055+Plus

Eventually, I want to replace the TV and Converter Box with a new model flat screen 1080p HDTV, so I want the remote to be compatible with that too, a major brand such as Sony, Samsung, LD, etc.

No. But if the equipment is in the database of your chosen remote, then it will work. Remember you will only get what you pay for.

In my experience with two Logitech 890 remotes, I can definitely say that, for me, these DO NOT WORK!

They both died the same death. I paid $399 for the first one, it last a few days, then showed a glitch in the screen and up came a message "battery needs calibration" amongst other gibberish. I contacted Logitech, they sent me a replacement. After a brief time it acted the same way and failed. I was in a back and forth with Logitech's offshore tech services for a few weeks until they essentially told me I was screwed and they were no longer going to support the unit. So, bottom line, $399 spent (wasted) plus an investment in an interface to a Sony PS3, a new battery, since it seemed that the second unit may have eaten up the first one, and now two non functional pieces of junk and Logitech then tells me, "it must suck to be you."

Think I'll be buying anything Logitech ever again? Like voting for Obama twice...