My home set up is 9 TV's with 6 sources using an HDMI Matrix Switch in the basement. Recently I migrated two of the sources from Comcast Motorola STB's to the Pace X-1 STB's so my current sources are - (3 TIVO's, 2 Xfintity X-1's, Roku)

Today I have 8 MX-350's 1 MX-450 and an MRF-350 which all worked great except for the fact that when I moved to the X-1 boxes I found that the MX-350's & 450 do a poor job of controlling the X-1 units. The preset code of 113 works, but often creates double button presses that is driving my family crazy. Learning from the X-1 remote produces even worse results.

So, this creates a great opportunity for me to upgrade.

I love the simplicity of the MX-350 so I'm inclined to stick with URC. However, I understand that URC has changed their policies and require dealer-only software to program all their non-consumer remotes. I am very comfortable using software to program a remote, but I'm not inclined to rely on someone else to do it for me. The fact is I am always tinkering and am uncomfortable with having to rely on a third party when I want to make changes.

Basically what I need is:

1. A remote with :
a). good learning capablilities
b). RF/IR simultaneously
c). Macros
d). Control of 8-10 devices
e). Computer based programming, firmware upgrading & configuration backup would be a bonus.

2. RF base station with IR routing (to handle multiple sources of similar type)


I know that moving forward IP vs IR control will become more standard, however I am leery about going to an iOS/Android or purpose built hardware Wifi remote solution for a few reasons:

1. Lack of battery life of Wifi remotes requires rechargeable remotes with charging stands vs AAA batteries that last for months right now. (admittedly not a huge obstacle)

2. Typically Wifi devices associate and disassociate with the Wifi network regularly and I'm assuming they won't be as responsive. (maybe the app guys/gals have figured this one out)

3. Not as intuitive. For example, a guest in the guest bedroom picks up a bedside Itouch that has been sitting there for a month unused and tries to turn on the TV. My guess is that won't be nearly has user friendly as it is with the current MX-350 setup. For one thing the user will have to find and launch the App. (again, maybe the app guys have figured this one out)

4. Additional gadgets (e.g. Global Cache, etc.) required for legacy devices. (again, not a huge deal, but add it to the list)

FYI, I'm not opposed to paying someone to do the initial setup. However, once that's done I'd like to have complete control (no pun intended) over my system. I understand if I screw it up that's my problem.

Not withstanding all the above, I am trying to keep an open mind and would love some input from the community.

Thanks...Josh