Lights on Pre-lit Tree Not Working?

I have a 10 ft. 700 clear, 500 multi light pre-lit tree. It has 4 sections that connect with 4 prong connectors and screw tight. It has a function box before the cord that allowed it to turn on, on with clear lights (steady), on with colored lights (steady), all lights on steady, or on with all lights strobe. I think that the box is defective. It is permanently attached.

The company is no longer in business. I have replaced the fuse in the plug, even though it was still good. The box does not work at all. Sometimes, if I plug it in the clear lights go on. I have had it on for a week, afraid to unplug it. Can I have an electrician cut the box off and reconnect the cord? Or would that completely ruin the tree?

By Sandy A.