On the remote front- I've had a urc tx1000 for 3-5 yrs, can't really remember, with no problems,knock wood. I got it for right around half msrp. from surf remote control. com. I had to email them for the price but they're legit. I seem to remember that scenario is not uncommon. Forgive me if this is old news but I'd hate to read about you paying msrp.