I posted a note on another site (smr-home-theater.org ,forum 1) asking for input on the Pronto vs. the HK/IRIQ. Several responses came back similar to yours - people like to be able to feel buttons in the dark. It's not clear to me anyway whether the LCD touch pad would be as 'satisfying', even if it's backlit. I DO like the idea of up/downloadable templates though. I have'nt decided yet though - don't have enough remotes (only 4) on the coffee table to force the decision.

Steve