I also faced this aspect ratio issue in my MiTV 49 inch TV when the resolution is set to 1080i or 1080p. SD channel streching is proper in other resolutions. Hence, have set the resolution at 720p. This will not affect SD channel's picture quality as the broadcasting itself happens in SD. You might experience a slight deterioration in HD channel quality but is hardly noticeable. With respect to remote pairing, try using a smartphone with IR blaster like Redmi phones. Though the TV comes with a Bluetooth remote, it might still support IR remotes as in my case.