I think some Sonys used a modulating frequency around 50 kHz, higher than what could pass through some of those systems.

It might matter just what parts you have, so, details, please! Is there a label or model number on the IR sensor, or is there a distribution block? How about a power supply that connects to the IR distribution block?

"stick." Hmm. Xantech makes the DinkyLink, rectangular, with a window on one end and an LED blinker on the other end (both facing forward, though). Niles makes one, too, but it is not rectangular -- its ends are rounded.

Let us know more.

Incidentally, most people call the things on the components "eyes" when they start out describing these systems. It would be helpful to remember that the stick thingy is the "eye" and these things are LEDs that send out IR. They aren't eyes because they don't see, they put light out. I say this for clarity, because if you had written a less complete description, your use of "eye" would have been very confusing.