So, not only is your VCR not responding to the zapper (remote control), it is also not responding to the same commands from buttons on the unit itself.
That suggests the remote control is probably OK and the problem is in the VCR.
You can probably pick up a used one for less than the likely cost of a repair:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Matsui-VX1108-Video-Recorder/dp/B0000C75FQ
But I'd think about getting a decent (maybe secondhand) branded PVR - something like a Humax - not a badged up Chinese pile 'em high and sell 'em cheap import.
gfdsa, November 2017
