I have the Sony, with built-in Freeview, and have just subscribed to VM's medium (basic) TV package.

I've got the Samsung set top box connected to one scart of a 3-scart adaptor; line-1 scart of the Sony connected to another scart in adaptor; the Sony connected to the set top box via line-3 scart. The scart adaptor is connected to the TV, so both Samsung and Sony pictures can be viewed on the TV by toggling between the two buttons. (I only have one scart socket in the back of my tv, hence the adaptor solution!)

Viewing the TV through the Sony scart connection, I can control both the Virgin TV, using the VM remote, and the recording settings using the Sony remote, working through a line-3 route.

Now, I can record by pressing play. I can set timer to record the channel which the VM set top box is currently tuned in to. What I can't do is set timer to record from multiple channels and times (at least not unless I manually change the set-top channel prior to the recording beginning):

ie Top Gear BBC2 at 8pm
The Shield FIVE at 10pm
because my only recording source option is line-3, not the full EPG menu available when using the Sony on its own.

Has anyone found a solution? I'll have a play over the next few days if not and see what happens.

Sorry if this wasn't very clear.

Cheers
Rick

Okay, to answer my own question:

Using my set-up above. When setting TV programmes, select favourites, select the programme you want to record and then click "change channel at start", then "okay", and the box saves your selection.

It then switches the channel for you. If you then set your recorder to record during the times of the programme, you get what you want.

You may have to build-in some extra record time in case the start of the programme is delayed, but you can always A-B edit if you want to save the recording to burn to disc.

JD!