I have only ever used the AMS knob for navigating the menu in test mode on my XA777ES. Haven't even tried it on my 5400.
I also just use the remote. Mainly I just press "Play" on the remote. Aside from the sound, the things I like on the 5400 remote are the open/close of the drawer, and the display off button.
It is sad to note that this machine is not available in Australia. Don't know what Sony is doing down under, but not making the 5400 available to audiophiles down there is a big bummer.
Regards,