Hi Zach,
You are the first I know of with two mp3 controller failures with no apparent reason for failure. I have had some blow more then one controller by either using the wrong battery or making mistakes trying to wire up some of the extra features.
When I mailed you a second controller, I asked you in email what battery you are using but you did not reply. Please don't misunderstand me and think I am trying to accuse you of anything. I am just trying to understand. Two failures is unusual but entirely possible.
Gary