Infra Red Remote extenders and Universal remote

["noel_pilot" <HA@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi all,
Hoping you can give me some help here.

I have two requests.

Firstly I would like suggestions as to the best way to distribute IR
signals from a variety of rooms (Bedroom, kitchen, lounge, bathroom
etc ) back to Node 0.  I think I would prefer a cabled solution as I
would imagine it to be more reliable.  Have seen a number of solutions
but advice on the best thing available to me now would be appreciated.
If cheap ish is possible then that would be great too!!

And secondly I am looking for an all singing all dancing universal
remote.  I really like the look of the new logitech ones and the
online setup seems fantastic from the demo.  Only thing is Im just
starting to play with X10 so an X10 compatible remote would be useful.
Prefer hard buttons to touchscreen although a combination may be
acceptable.  Macros essential!  Reccomendations please!!

My idea is to get hold of the red radio lcd control panel solution
advertised here recently and investigate suitable software for them to
control my AV gear as well as my HA items but I require a remote in
each room as well!!

Look forward to all your advice!
Many thanks

Noel