DAC or Preamp controlled by DirectTV remote

My suggestion is to get whatever preamp and DAC you think is best, without regard to the remote issue. If the DTV remote doesn't work, get a Logitech Harmony to control the whole thing. I switched from the DTV remote to a Harmony 900, which is fully programmable, including customizable soft buttons, and works in either IR or RF mode. I use it in RF mode with the included IR blaster/repeater to control components in my cabinet. Also controls the Mac Mini and AppleTV, which I don't think the DTV remote can do.

The DirecTV remotes are pretty good, but I use a Logitech Harmony One to control everything. You should probably be using the audio output of the DirecTV receiver, and use your TV only as a monitor. A single HDMI connection between receiver and processor will simplify cabling. I assume both your Apple TV and Bly-ray player have HDMI. What do you use the Apple TV for?

In my case, the DirecTV HD-DVR connects to a DVDO iScan Duo video processor that is connected to a Cary 11a audio processor (passes video unprocessed). This setup requires only two HDMI cables. An Oppo 93 connects directly to the Cary 11a via HDMI. I use balanced output from the Cary to the amps and Velodyne bass manager.

db

Thanks for the responses. I am trying to keep with the DTV remote for the wifes (and my) ease of use. We have tv's in 3 rooms With Direct TV remotes that we have been using for years so changing anything in the dark is easy. Also have tried the Dijit Ipad app/device that seems to work OK but It seemed simplest to take the 3 HDMI cables from each unit and go directly to the TV then take the optical out from the TV to a new DAC that could be programmed to it. That way, switching between inputs on the TV via the DTV remote also switches the audio out at the TV at presumably equal levels. I know that this can all be switched through a Surround receiver but have no need for surround. Have written to Bel Canto and NAD about the DAC 2.5 and the NAD M15. Both can be used as preamps I'm told but I worry about the output levels of these being enough to drive the amp to a high volume level.
Any other suggestions welcome. I'll let you all know what happens.
JL

Unless I'm missing something in your question, I would think that one of the Bel Canto DACs will do just what you are looking for (1.5, 2.5, 3.5). They have volume controls, can act as a preamp and have optical inputs.

Since you list Bel Canto as one of the options that your remote works with, this should do the job for you.

***Bel Canto dealer disclaimer***

I hear you about simplicity and WAF, but honestly, the Harmony is super easy to use, once you program it on your computer. The cool thing is that you program "activities" which are like macros on your computer. For example, my Harmony 900 has a color touch screen at the top (the rest is regular buttons laid out much like the DTV remote). When you pick the remote up off the charger, the screen lists the different activities, such as "Watch TV" or "Watch Blu Ray" (or whatever you program it to do. When you click on an activity, it turns on all of the required components, turns off any components you are not using (unless you program it to keep them on), switches the inputs on your TV, processor, scaler, etc., and then switches the touch screen buttons to activity-appropriate functions. Also, you never have to slide a switch to tell it which component you want to control. It already knows. Anyway, it's pretty cool stuff for $159 on Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Harmony-Universal-Remote-Touchscreen/dp/tags-on-product/B002RL875A) I think it was over $300 last year.