You are not seeing things. The remote emits IR light in a slightly upward fashion.

The remotes are not sending the wrong pronto hex code. As you hinted at previously, what happens is if you aim too high, as the remote diode already emits in a slightly upward angle, a portion of the command is missed. If you were to look at an excel sheet containing the codes, you would see the codes are indeed very, very similar. By missing part of the signal, the 976 receives a different command all together. What Drue is experiencing with volume continually changing is not related to this and I have asked he try a few things.

The remotes are tested here for proper functionality (correct button press emits correct pronto hex code/command), dispersion (just under 45 degrees), and an operating distance of slightly over 30ft in a perfect environment and about 25ft here. On top of this, emission strength is measured at the factory.

This is the exact same remote used for the RR2160. Right now, between the forum, email, and phone less than .01% of our customers have reported issues with the remote. I have tested a vast number of units here and have been unable to replicate anything but the proper functionality listed above. Of course, if I aim too far off axis, I can occasionally cause the aforementioned. If you are experiencing issues, please send us an email, at customerservice@outlawaudio.com, documenting what you experienced; please list all equipment in your setup. We have been spending significant time testing the remotes and units and will continue to do so; sending us feedback directly is always the most helpful.