I have been using HDHR units for quite a while now. Started out with the OG dual units and windows media center, though now I have migrated to two prime units and android TV. I do not have any STBs from the providers and have been using android tv units throughout the house since DRM was enabled for ...

I use a sofabaton for a shield which works well. You may also want to check out flirc

www.sofabaton.com
flirc.tv