My dad wants a remote with macros for Xmas. We don't have video games or anything crazy - just tv, cable box, receiver, dvr, blu-ray. He just wants to be able to hit "Watch TV" and have everything turn on.

What specific model should I start looking at?

With or without RF capability?

Without...no need to change lighting or anything like that. Just a down and dirty remote strictly for home theater electronics...

The URC MX-500 is a good choice. It can be had used from eBay or new as the NXG NX-RM505 for $55.35 from Amazon here: [Link: amazon.com]
It's drawbacks are that it runs on AAA batteries which have to be changed much more often than AAs. The LCD screen is not very bright. I still use one and find it quite adequate for my purposes.

Also look at the Sonys, RM VL-610, 310, and 210.