Well, I tried the CD player cleaner and also the higher quality CD-ROMs, but I just wasn't happy with the inconsistent quality of the playback.
Sooo...I went out and picked up a 20GB mp3 player and one of those 'cassette' input devices.
The solution is great for me. I was quite surprised at the good quality sound provided via the cassette thingy. The fact that there is a tiny amplifier in the mp3 unit translates to richer sound when pumped through the stock system.
The Creative Nomad Zen has a nifty case with velcro that easily mounts on the handbrake. It also has a lot of EQ and environment settings to play with which makes it perfect for the car. The i-pod was too expensive and didn't have as many features as the Zen, although it is a far more elegant unit.
I will never have to use the stock CD unit again...

 

i'm sure it was the fact that your CD player didn't play mp3's or burned CD's!!!!!!!!

 

I have the Ipod and at griffintechnology.com (I think) they have the iTrip that will send the signal by radio...so you don't need the tape adapter...

I think there are others on the market

 

Why didnt u just get an aftermarket CD player?

 

Just curious, doen't that "sound" like a cassette playing (like those old adapters for portable CD players)?

IMO, it might have been a better idea to get a new head unit (with the BOSE adapter).

 

Well, I sort of half expected that, but was pleasantly surprised. It is (presumably) not as good as an original CD, granted, but considering the ambient noise in a moving car, I cannot tell the difference, so I am happy.
I also rip my mp3s at very decent quality (160-320kbs VBR).
The Zen has several signal processing options, including environment settings to compensate for being in a car, which is something a Discman never did for me, and it utilizes a 'smart' volume algorithm to even out differences in the variety of mp3s. Plus I can take it with me or hide it in the door bin. Plus the car system remains stock. Plus no skipping. Plus I don't need to spend those same $$ on a new head unit. Plus I don't need to buy and burn Cds. Plus I never need to buy a Discman or Walkman or whatever.
There are just too many pros vs cons for me.

BTW You American FD owners might notice in the picture that the 3 buttons by the ashtray are all assigned from the factory on Canadian models. The 3rd button is for the headlight washer pisser, which I do not think came stock on the US models.

 

Well, that's one way to solve a problem
Cool that you posted your results

 

I guess it could also be noted that my first cars had 8-tracks (I'm a 40-something guy) so it doesn't take a whole lot to impress me when it comes to car audio.