YES! That's the main drawback.

Computer programmibility allows you to get discrete codes ("on" or "off" instead of "power", "input 1" or "input 2" etc vs. "source"...) that are not included on the OEM remotes. You can download codes not in the database. This allows you to program effective macros, which is a string of commands. (Such as pressing "Watch DVD" will turn the TV on, to the DVD input, turn a reciever to the DVD input, turn on the DVD player, and eject the drive tray.)

The MX-500 also does macros but can be tougher if you can't get discretes.

However, if you simply want to consolidate, and not use macros, the MX-500 will work well. It'll replace all the OEM remotes.