Which Control System do you recommend for a Home Theater system?

Before answering this question there are two items to consider; what are your expectations for control of your home theater system and what is your budget?

In answering what are your expectations, you need to understand the makeup of your system? How many devices (satellite, cable box, Blu-Ray, CD, Apple TVs, Kaleidescape, etc) do you have and to what level of control do you expect? Do you want the control system to provide automation or do you want simple device control? Do you want two-way feedback? Do you want to control other devices in your theater (i.e. lighting, HVAC, etc)?

There are several manufactures out there that make control systems and/or universal remotes. Some of them include Phillips Pronto, Home Theater Master, RTI, Control4, Elan, Savant, AMX, and Crestron. There are several others but I name these as being some of the more popular brands.

Once you know the expectations of your control system along with your budget, you can then start by reviewing the control systems listed above for the one that is right for you. Some you maybe able to setup yourself and others you may need to find a system integrator. Good Luck!