To assign functions to buttons, follow the 9XX Command instructions, using 994 EFC keymoves.  I can provide more detailed instructions (specifically, which setup codes to use, and the list of EFCs that you will enter manually) once you get a remote. You do not need a cable, and it will take 10 minutes or so. The EFCs are already known, so learning isn't necessary-- somebody has already done the learning, and posted the results at hifi-remote.com.

You can roughly double the number of keys on the remote using the "shift" concept.  Nomally, one presses a button, and that sends a IR signal.  You can assign a function to a shifted button, and you would invoke the shifted button by tapping the Setup button just before tapping, for example, the Fast Foward button.  Assuming that you had made the appropriate assignment, now the remotd would send Next Chapter.

Most button can be shifted.  The Setup button, device mode buttons, and for some remotes, the Power button can't be shifted.  If you assign a function to a shifted digit button, you'll need to tap Setup twice before tapping the digit button.

Any of the remotes you mentioned will work.