Universal vs Original Remotes

  
TV's

Universal remotes will not work the following features of most TV's:

Menu options including:
-Auto Programming channels
-Adjustment of picture, color and audio settings
-Input to DVD and games
-PIP and picture size
-No programming codes are needed with original remotes
  
Combo Units including TV/VCR, TV/DVD, TV/DVD/VCR, DVD/VCR:

Universal remotes do not have codes for most combo units.  If universal remotes work at all, they will usually only work one part of the unit.  For instance, they will work the TV but not the VCR. 

In order to auto-program channels, adjust the color or picture, and change the audio settings, you need the menu button from the original remote.  If your combo unit includes a VCR, the original remotes are usually needed to set the clock, do timer recording, adjust tracking, and control speeds. 

If your combo unit includes a DVD player, in order to access such features as screen size, audio settings, angles and bonus material, the original remote is needed.  In addition, original remotes do not require codes or programming.  Just put in the batteries and they work.

VCR's

Original remotes are usually needed to set the clock, program the stations, do timer recording, adjust tracking, and control speeds.  Universal remotes will not work these key features.  In addition, original remotes do not require codes or programming.  Just put in the batteries and they work.

DVD Players

In order to access such features as screen size, audio settings, angles and bonus material, the original remote is needed.  Universal remotes will not work these features.  In addition, original remotes do not require codes or programming.  Just put in the batteries and they work.

Audio

Universal remotes normally do not include codes for audio.  If universal remotes work at all, they will normally be limited to power and volume.  In order to work such key features as tuner selections, surround sound, scans, CD, tapes and Dolby, you need the original remote.  In addition, original remotes do not require codes or programming.  Just put in the batteries and they work.