Rob, that's almost precisely what we would do. Lock up the receiver and cable box and make just the front of the DVDp and VCR available.

We're a little concerned about loose remotes walking off. I've considered Pronto 2000, and glue (or whatever) it down, or a similar method with a button remote. But that's not the best idea. I'm currently looking at Xantech controllers mounted in a table; around $700-800 if I set it up myself. Or possibly the URC2 remote from Xantech. All these are powerful remotes, and I'd just limit the available buttons.

I'll check out Niles for comparisons next. Do you think I could stay under $1000? I haven't any idea yet of Niles prices.

If all else fails, I can always go the jp1 route and just replace inexpensive remotes as they walk off.