My trusty MX-850 finally bit the dust and I'm looking to replace it. I am leaning toward a 780 since it's pretty similar (but I heard much improved). I've been reading about IP/serial type setups using iDevices but that seems too expensive and time consuming for a father of 3 kids under 6 :). Anybody have any thoughts on my best option? I have a directv genie (HR-34 700), Samsung LED TV, Denon AVR-2112CI, Apple TV and a Sony blu-Ray. Budget is $500 or less.

I use a MX-850 at work every day. Program it myself. At home I have a simpler system very much like yours and find the MX-850 to be overkill in that situation. I presume the same would be true of the MX-780. Combine that with the price and the difficulty and uncertainty in obtaining the non-crippled version of the software and I'm out!

I recently bought a Harmony 650 for my home system and I'm thoroughly satisfied with it. I find I can tweak it to my liking and get it to do everything that the MX-850 can do for my particular home entertainment system, which like I said is very similar to yours. I have a TiVo, Sony TV, Denon AVR-591, Fire TV, and a Sony Blu-Ray. I also have a Pioneer CD Player.

In many ways I find the Harmony 650 is better in use than the MX-850.

The Harmony 650 is only $60 at Amazon. If you're determined to spend more money go for the Harmony Ultimate.