I've decided after juggling multiple remotes for a bunch of different equipment for far too long that it's time to go on the search for an advanced universal home theater remote that will let me control my projector, surround system, various components like DVD players and XBOXes and whatnot, as well as my room lighting. Programmable one-button setups for multiple devices is what I have in mind. I want to be able to hit a button and have al these systems lines themselves up, set the volume, turn down the lights, etc. In fact, bonus points if it can also control other items in other parts of the house and if I can set up enough macros to where my roomie can have his own preferences for lighting, volume, etc.

In my early searches, I have found a number of very expensive models that I would have to take a new mortgage out for in order to acquire. People actually spend that much money on remotes? Holy cow! We're talking in the thousands of dollars for some of these things. It's ridiculous. There is no way in the world I can spend more than say $800, and even that would really be way too much unless it does everything I am looking for. I'd hope to be able to do some Froogling and find some street prices that get it all under $500. I'm not holding my breath.

Anyhow, what do people recommend? There are a number of home theater geeks at my work and I am sure they'll each have their opinions and experiences, and I hope to get some more ideas before diving into the water myself. Please leave a comment with your thoughts and experiences, or with descriptions of remotes you may have run across in your own research. Thanks!