My 1994 arrived yesterday and I compared it to the Cinema 7 last night. My system, with the exception of the TV, is behind me and I need a remote with a broad IR signal. The Cinema 7 gave me that. I can point the Cinema 7 at the ceiling (Actually, I'm never even aware that I'm pointing it) and it works fine. The 1994 has a much narrower beam and I have to turn and point it directly at the components. Awkward and unacceptable. Other than that it has the same features as the Cinema 7 and handles all of the advanced codes and learning functions that the Cinema 7 does. Sadly, neither will operate my Sony 50ES receiver's surround. Other's here have preferred the rather odd finish on the case but I find it slippery and uncomfortable. The backlighting is great but I've gotten used to the Cinema 7's button layout and really don't need the lighting after all. It's going back and I'll stay with the Cinema 7.