Remote opinions and advice (Harmony, URC, What?)

[jastromberg]

I was thinking about purchasing a Harmony remote.. probably the 550. I have already experimented with another Harmony remote, but I ran into problems getting the remote to use all of the commands available on the remote, and I didn't like the key layout.
(I use the USB-UIRT, to control my Dish Network STB. )

For example, the way I set it up, the Harmony did not let me teach Sage the guide command, menu command, etc.
I have read in the forums about getting other remotes and teaching the Harmony the missing codes to allow them to be then be taught to Sage.

I suppose my questions are:
1. Is this really the only option with Harmony remotes?
I have a very basic set-up and just need a universal remote that runs basic macros and controls sage, but I want it to control sage WELL. I don't need RF at this point either.

I have read about other remotes in the forum, like the MX series from URC. 2. What is their configuration like?

2a. Are they easier to set-up, more configurable? Do I have to use EventGhost or Girder? (I don't really care about controlling all aspects of Windows at this point)

3.Are there inherent problems with toggle codes? How can I get around these?

4. Do the codes used for FF, skip, play, etc work when playing back other media files (like DVDs) from Media center in Sage?

I have even tried some cheap remotes, but I ran into similar problems of the remote disallowing complete use of all keys in certain configurations.

As things stand right now, I think I am going to purchase the 550 and attempt to configure it using random remotes around the house. Any advice or opinions would be appreciated.

js