I use the "hotlink" IR repeater system. It comes with 7 repeaters and an IR "eye" which picks up the signal. I find that the Eye on the Hotlink is much more sensitive to my remote than regular IR sensors. In fact, I positioned the Eye behind my center channel (you can't actually see it when sitting in the room) - but the sensor picks it up no problem. I have my cd players and cable box out of the way, and have no problems relaying the signal.
I got my hotlink on eBay for about US$80, and you can save a couple of bucks this way. I'm sure that you can get it at brick and mortar stores too if warranties are of a huge concern.
While I don't need it, they sell extenders for the repeaters.
Find them
here.
Anyway, I highly recommend them for the fact that you can hide your stuff, but also because it makes your system more receptive to your remotes, especially if you're going to go with one of Ray's MX-700s or my Harmony's - the extra sensitivity helps to ensure that the system sees all of the commands in your macro.
