I've read so many reviews on the 880 but can't figure out if it's a good fit for me.
I need it to control 4 or 5 components (listed below).

I am not sure what the difference is between this and some other remotes that offer macros (this offers "activities"). Given that this is a universal remote I realize that it will replace all the remotes below, but am I correct in understanding that the "activities" just means turn on TV, or turn on DVD player, whereas macros would be "play DVD" or "play cable TV"? (I.e., activities are one function at a time and macros are multiple functions at the same time.) I'm pretty sure that I can handle turning on the TV and the DVD player and playing a movie by using multiple commands. What I really want is something that is intuitive and can be easily used by my wife (WAF).

Based upon this explanation of my needs and my equipment, can anyone tell me if this would be a good choice for me (it's in my price range $150 and it appears as though I can program it myself)?

Thanks in advance, and here is my equipment list:

Panasonic TH-50PH9UK (50" Pro Plasma)
Onkyo TX-SR674 (A/V receiver with HDMI switching and upconversion)
Oppo 981 (upconverting DVD [or some sort of BluRay format DVD player])
Dish Network ViP622 (DVR)

P.S. If I want to play media from my computer to my TV (e.g., streaming Netflix) -- does this have any impact on what type of remote I should choose?

Should be able to control these components, but i'm not too sure about the dvd player, I don't think it can control Oppo. I also think it has learning capabilities, and if it does you should be fine.

Yes, I find a touchscreen remote to always be the best solution for this. Only because they are most customizable and can be fit to do what you want them to do with the computer media.

I assume touch screen remotes are much more expensive and I hadn't thought of going that route. Any advice re where to start looking at those. I'm not saying I would definitely do that as I find the simplicity of Logitech appealing, but I'll consider it.

Also, any insight into the macro v. activities question posed above?

Yes, the Harmony can control everything...it will learn what is not in the database.

"Activities" are Logitech's word for macros. They're the same thing.

Touchscreen's are about $300 more in retail than the Harmony, but there is always E-Bay =]. I really think you should stick with the logitech and as OTAHD said "It can control everything" You shouldn't have a problem here, the programming is VERY simple, you just put in your brand of equipement, and it pretty much does everything else.

Thank you. One follow up question. If I want to future proof myself in case I need a RF remote, do you still think the Logitech Harmony is the right solution for me (specifically the 890)? I've read some very poor reviews about the 890 on cnet, so am wondering.
Thanks

I'd take a look into the MX-900 from URC also. It's more complex to program, but if you feel comfortable I think it's a much better remote than the Harmony, as it has better customization, layout, and durability.

I'd love a URC remote and receiver, but it's just out of my price range -- that's why I was considering the Logitech 880 or 890. Given that the MX-900 is out of my price range, do you think the 890 is something worth considering or is it no good?
Thanks

E-mail some of the authorized dealers and ask them for "unadvertised specials". You may be suprised. Specifically www.surfremote.com, www.proremotes.com, and www.bluedo.com. Note that the RF base station is not included though.

The 890 is still a good remote though.