Hi surf1. I don't believe you'll find the 950 remote any more difficult to operate than the remotes included with either of the receivers you mention. I would recommend the MX500 as a good choice for an aftermarket universal remote that your wife should be able to easily use to control all your equipment. The 950/7100 combination offers a chance to get into separates for the price of a receiver. Unheard of! Go for it. Best wishes...