ConsumerSearch.com, a "search engine and reviewer of product reviews and information," and one of the top 15 most visited websites in the US, recommends:

One For All URC 6131

CS's "Basic remote control". This One For All universal remote (at right, top), capable of handling six components, is devoid of the fancy tricks of most remotes. But it ably controls common A/V equipment and DVRs just the same. It controls satellite and cable boxes, as well as providing direct access to functions such as picture-in-picture and surround sound.

Philips RC9800i

CS's "Luxury universal remote". If we are going to take the word of some reviews, this Philips remote control (at right, bottom) is the price and feature litmus test for color LCD touchscreen universal remotes. Despite its expensive price tag, the Philips universal remote actually costs a lot less than similar models with color touchscreens. A Wi-Fi feature enables access to music, pictures, and a subscription-based channel guide from their PC to the remote. The Philips universal remote can also control components in multiple rooms in a house.

Which is ConsumerSearch.com's "Best universal remote control"? Click here.

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Take the following expert advice when choosing between remote controls:

First, while such remotes can handle a TV, DVD player, cable or satellite box, VCR and receiver, things might be different with a DVR or DVD recorder.

Next, if your equipment consists of the more basic stuff alongside the TV, then remotes that have internal code programming, or a web interface would be fine. Things change if you have more than 10 components; web programming is usually faster.

Full story here.

CNet.com is an established website when it comes to exhaustive gadget and computer-product related reviews. How many of CNet's picks jive with that of ConsumerSearch (CNet was one of the sources of CS's report)?

Logitech Harmony 890 The Logitech Harmony 890 is an imperfect but strong contender for your attention if you're in the market for a $400-below remote.

Monster Home Theater Controller 100 This is a more well-designed and pricey response to counterparts from Logitech and Harman Kardon.

For the all the top-rating choices from CNet, click here.

Go to the best eBay niche site for everything on universal remotes, www.e-homeaudioremotes.com.