My Marquis Epic came with the remote. Dealer told me it was standard with the Epic after I told him it was a deal clincher. It controls the temp, lights and pumps. It will also display current temp and indicate that pumps or heat are on. If the power is out, the unit will alarm after a couple of hours to indicate that there is no communications. I have it about 10 meters (30 feet)from the tub in and it works ultrasonic so you don't have to be in a direct line. The unit in the tub plugs into the Balboa controller. I would rate this as the number one option for any tub owner especially in colder climates. No need to go outside to check the temp ever.
Good luck!