I've had mine for a couple of weeks also and am very happy with it. I'd recommend getting the JP1 cable and a URC remote which can be programmed with commands that you can't get any other way, such as discrete power-on and power-off commands for the 950 and other components (e.g. Panny DVDs and Sony TVs). These are very handy for making fool proof macros for different device modes, as well as reliable system on and system off macros. Learning is definitely easier than with the 950 remote, and the IR transmitter is extremely powerful. The only problem with learning I've had is with the joystick commands from my Samsung SR-T150 HDTV tuner, but eventually was able to teach it.

You can define twenty key names for each of 10 devices, which is much better than trying to remember what you've reprogrammed a button on a traditional hard button remote.

You have real buttons. (I don't like LCD pads).

This would have been a real killer if it was computer programmable, but then the MX-700, it's big brother, is, but for about $300 more.

If you go the URC/JP1 route, be sure to get the nice 950 code spreadsheet that Ellen made for her One for all remote. Check out the Cinema 7+ thread here for the links and general info.

BTW, has anyone figured out if there are discrete codes for the different surround modes, such as PLII-C, PLII-M and DTS?