The Sony sounds like what I've been looking for, but before I shell out >$100, let me ask if it can really do what I want.
Can I program it so a single button will:
1. Turn on my Mitsubishi TV
2. Turn on my Sharp VCR
3. Turn on my Pioneer receiver
4. Have the volume buttons control the receiver
5. Have the channel buttons control my Scientific Atlantic cable box?

Can another button turn off the TV, VCR, & receiver (the cable box typically stays on)?

Can it also control my Technics CD changer? So that one button turns the receiver & CD on and sets the "channel" buttons to control the CD disks and tracks?

As you can tell, I haven't fully developed the concept of "brand loyalty".

Thanks for the advice.