I got this unit for free, so I'm just trying to get it working with my 4:3 TV in my room. It did not come with a remote control so I'm unable to change the mode into letterbox. I have a Universal R7 remote control, and it controls the unit just fine, but it lacks the "action" button that is needed to access the DVD player's menu.

Does anyone know of a way to access the menu without the remote? I've tried all the buttons on the front, but didn't know if there was a secret combo or anything that would give me access to this menu. Seems kinda dumb that you would need the remote for this action.

It was free :-)

I have the player, and you do need the remote. Consider a harmony remote.

Yeah, I have a Harmony 880 in the living room for my main TV and love it, but this is in my bedroom for a little 20" 4:3 LCD TV and I don't want anything fancy. I already had the Universal remote because I didn't feel like messing with multiples while in bed (I like having the TV on when I go to sleep but often channel surf). I considered moving it into the living room to work with the Harmony remote, but I'm not downgrading my equipment in the living room because of a missing remote, I'll just buy a new DVD player for the bedroom if it comes to it, just trying to work with what I got.

Thanks for confirming my suspicions, though.

Can't you temporarily program the Harmony to change the setting once, and then program it back to the way it is now?

The other option is to find a replacement remote online. There's often several places that sell orphaned remote controls, probably for cheaper than a new DVD player. If you google your model number and add "remote", you'll be in business.

You know, that's an excellent idea. I'm not sure why I didn't think of it. My brain is fried, been studying for 2 tests tomorrow, back to back at 8am and 9;30am...

Thanks!