itunes remote control

I'm trying to make an infrared receiver using a PIC18F2550 microcontroller connecting to the computer through the USB port. I will be using a Sony remote for sending the infrared signals. Will a simple IR phototransistor do the job? ie. will it be accurate enough and will I be able to stand on the otherside of the room and use the remote effectively?

Is something like this adequate? https://www.electro-tech-online.com/custompdfs/2009/07/L-53P3C.pdf

Use a 38kHz IR detector like the TSOP1138

Chris 414 Atom did some code for sony remote it here some good code you want to read it.https://www.electro-tech-online.com/threads/sony-infared-code-in-c18.93570/