Need remote control advice

The Theater Master SL-9000 learning remote is supposed to have a very strong IR signal. I have a Marantz RC2000 mk1, myself. But considering how expensive it was ($250 new, $75-100 used) I can't recommend it over the SL9000, which seems to cost farless than the RC2000. But if you are looking for something with the features of the RC2000, but a higher WAF, check out the Marantz RC1200. It has a slim "cell-phone" like profile, witha jog wheel to control the screen.

The RC2000 is big, heavy (although I don't think so, myself), has a medicore IR signal, and crew thru batteries relatively quickly (2-3 weeks on 4 AAs). Of course I should play with the backlight sensitivity and timeout thresholds. Since obviously its the backlight that's chewing up the juice (i.e., it aint the IR strength folks!).

http://www.audioreview.com/Remote,Controls/Universal,SL-9000,Pre-Programmed,Remote,Control/PRD_123474_2770crx.aspx

http://www.remotecentral.com/sl9000/

http://www.hometheatermaster.com/htm/products/sl-9000.html

Try putting up a mirror at 45 degrees and give it a try. I have a similar problem with my bedroom system, and I get decent results just aiming the remote at the wall, near the ceiling, opposite the components, which are 90 degrees from my bed. Not even a mirror, in my case. Cheap, simple and perhaps all you need.

I like the Marantz line of learning remotes, we use them in almost all of are installs.

Judd