We have everything in our console. We use direct tv so the channels show up own the screen. We don't need to look at anything on the units. Just make sure the signal can go through your unit.

To control lots of AV gear stashed in cabinets, check out the Logitech Harmony 890 remote. It uses radio frequency (RF) waves to send commands to a box that converts the RF into infrared (IR) which is what most AV components use. So you can stash all your components (cable or satellite or FIOS box, DVD player, etc.) in cabinets with no glass and still use the remote. Cheers!