Best remote with preamp


After using various preamps where the remote control interface left me wanting more, I'd like to see what is considered the best or perhaps 'perfect' remote for a preamp. Note I don't mean cdps, or other remotes. (Integrateds qualify but aftermarket remotes don't).

So many of them (even those supplied with expensive units) are gimmicky, or oddly-shaped to the hand, or have poor tactile feel, etc.

What is critical is the volume control, its feedback to the user, both tactile and visual, and its 'connectedness' to the unit, that is, how responsive is the unit to the remote.

So points would be scored heavily for an easy-to-read volume setting from across the room (doesn't have to be a numerical readout but if so it should be well-executed), fine-control of volume, in-the-dark usability, balance, weight and button size and such things.

For this exercise assume cost is no object.
kck
Anything by BAT--heavy remote, positive tactile feedback, nice big readout on the pre-amps (which can be shut off), mute, fade (up and down). Button size is smallish, but there are not many on the remote so you don't need to "look" once you know where they are. Oh, and the pre-amps are terrific too!
I'd recommend the Audio Research Ref. 3 preamp, as it is both a top notch preamp, and it has a full function remote. My friend has one and it is exactly like you describe your perfect preamp and remote to be. The buttons are well spaced, and the display on the preamp is nice and large.

Stay away from the Ayre K-1xe (as the remote is very, very basic), and there is no digital display. (FYI, I own the Ayre K-1xe and love it and recommend it highly as a preamp, but the remote is not its strong point, IMHO.)
Post removed 
The first thing you don't want is a stepped volume control. They always wind up too loud or too soft for the level one wishes to attain. The VAC Renaissance has a solid metal remote, nicely weighted, smooth finish, minimalist features, with soft buttons for volume up/down one above the other, spaced apart from any other buttons, so there is no guessing as far as feel. One can execute adjustments of the finest level via either the remote or the volume knob. If you need to see the level you are set at, the volume knob is beveled and it is easy to tell fairly closely where the level is by just a glance.

The interface between man and machine is important whether it be a preamp or great automobiles like my BMW's.