afaik you don't need the remote - it works fine from the front panel. But, do you know that you have the correct sources selected? My recollection is operating zone 2 w/o the remote is confusing at best. But, if you can be sure you have the right sources selected, and are operating volume for zone 2, etc you may be ok. You may be able to get a universal remote and program it for zone 2 if you want. There are old B&K remotes on ebay all the time. They have a different code for zone 2. I have also seen zone 2 remotes listed.
Finally - just to be sure - zone 2 has no digital function. Your sources must be connected to the analog inputs or you won't hear anything.
Finally - just to be sure - zone 2 has no digital function. Your sources must be connected to the analog inputs or you won't hear anything.