Just out of curiosity, I have a remote which belonged to a Matsui VX2500 VCR and a Sony SLV-E250 VCR and since it's own remote is knackered, I was wondering if I could use that remote on that machine? Is there a pass code I have to bypass or something? (Something you might want to know, a Matsui VP9501 remote had worked on a Bush VCR)

Chad Bronson, July 2006

If ever you want a spare universal remote (that's cheaper than the local Argos ones in their catelogue), try the Poundstretcher shops. I got one a few months back (Mitsubishi on the box) for just £3 pound! And surprise surprise, it actually works fine. It can control four different items (TV, VCR, DVD and Hi Fi or Sat.).

Great buy if you have kids in the house breaking everything.

Steve H, August 2006

Terry, would one of those universal remotes work on it? I have a feeling that since it is Sony and it is not a cheap model, I dont think it will.

Chad Bronson, July 2006

There are two reasons that remotes from different boxes work.

1) There are some fairly standard codes now that seem to do some of the basics functions e.g. on/off volume.

2) They were made by the same OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) supplier. Matsui (Dixons) and Bush (Alba) are just brands they don't make anytthing they sell, they buy it in often from the same supplier.

If you need new remote thew can often be bought separately. Alternatively there are many good after market remotes to be had that can control many disparate devices.

Terry, July 2006