Decided to try the Palm Pilot solution since I am getting two free one with the notebook computer I just ordered for a client from Megadepot. They seem to have the programmable flexibility I want (like the Pronto but with an uglier interface) at the price I want (under $200). If it doesn't work out, I'll use the thing as an organizer. I almost bought the Sony RM-AV2000, but I really want to customize the interface and program complex macros to make the thing dummy proof.

One thing I am wondering about is how I am going to handle the input select strategy on my Kenwood (5 yr old) receiver since you scroll through the different input instead of pressing a specific button on the Kenwood remote assigned to each input. It seems to me, this will prevent me from writing macros that will turn on power and select the correct input.

I am wondering if my Kenwood maybe has IR signals that select the various inputs directly even though you can do it that way on the receiver or with the remote? And if so, I guess I would have to borrow another Kenwood remote or universal remote with the codes for them in order to program the palm pilot. Otherwise, I guess I need to get a new receiver that comes with a remote that has one button for each input.

Any ideas?

Congrats on the Palm. You'll love it.

As far as the scrolling IR signals, you're best bet is to find another Kenwood with those discrete signals or perhaps a universal remote control. I am currently having the same problem with my Sony 53in TV. I need a discrete IR code for Video1 and Video2 so that I can program my macro to be dummy proof, and not have to make sure I start from the right place. What I have heard is that there are discrete codes out there, I just have to find them.

By the way, I have the Kenwood KC-X1(?) amp and pre-amp. You know, one of the first models to come out as THX certified. What code are you looking for? I can see if I have it.

Oh yeah, if you don't have Dolby Digital...that sounds like a hell of an excuse to go purchase a new receiver! It's like night and day!!!!!

I just realized my Mitsubishi big screen has five video source inputs -- but unfortunately the remote only has an input select button like the Kenwood remote so I can't write macros that explicitly pick the input source. Does anyone know of a cheap universal remote that will explicity pick the input source on a Mitsubishi big screen (about 2 years old) or a Kenwood sourround sound receiver (about 5 years old) so I can program complete macros that select the source. This makes me wonder what the use of those source buttons on the Sony RM-AV2000 are if your receiver only has an input select button (on remote and face) that scrolls through the inputs instead of explictly picking them. Would that remote pick the sources explictly on my Kenwood KR-V5560 (I think that's the model).

I am thinking of purchasing a new receiver. I'm not a huge Home Theater junky so I don't need anything real fancy. I already have a Sony 200 disc changer but if I am going to use a universal remote anyway I am not sure what the value would be of being able to link the Sony change to a Sony receiver? Can anyone recommend a receiver for $300 or under that comes with a remote with different input buttons (video 1, video 2, dvd, cd, etc.) instead of one input selector?