Answers to questions....and more
1) Yes
2) I don't know. It seems the touch screens are more flexible, but don't feel as much like a remote.
3) Yes, and I think I could handle it pretty well.

The more...I stopped at my local Magnolia Dealer to just touch the remotes and see what they feel like. I bought a Phillips Pronto TSU7000 demo that was pretty much prestine, just a few finger prints, for $150. I have 30 days to return it. First impressions were that I liked the feel of the URC remotes better, but I couldn't pass the price comparison.

What do you think of these? Can you recommend a place to find a compatible Rf extender? Any advice on approach to programming?