Helomech:Couldn't agree more. Remotes that come with well designed hi end gear are (or should be) a pleasure to hold and use. I wouldn't derive any pleasure from a cheap plastic, poorly designed remote which I suspect is the source of most of the hatred for remotes. The remotes for my preamp and CD player are all metal, well designed, expensive feeling, and a pleasure to hold and use.
Can't comprehend why one would despise remotes. I find that seldom do two songs share the same ideal volume level. And if your gear has a remote function no one forces you to use it. A motorized control has no detrimental effect on sonics. Suppose some folks just prefer things the hard way.
J.Chip