Having problems with audio CDs recently. When I insert the CD into the CD-ROM, the PC recognizes it and the default CD player opens up (Turtle Beach AudioStation 32). However, the CD player reads "data or no disc loaded". When I try to select play, nothing happens. I also tried going through Windows Explorer. I view the D: drive and all the audio tracks are viewable and D: is identified as an audio CD. When I attempt to double-click on one of the audio tracks, the same thing happens. Audiostation opens up, but nothing happens. Finally I tried using the default Windows 98 CD player, located under Accessories, Entertainment. The player opens and states "data or no disc loaded" for the Artist and "Please insert an audio compact disc" for Title. This same problem has occurred with multiple audio CDs. Sound is not a problem, nor is the cabling. I checked all connections inside the PC and they are fine. Also of note, data CDs or program CDs work just fine.

Wel I sure am puzzled because you said it is not a cabling problem because the 1st thing that I would check if the audio CD won't work and the speakers would be hooked ok would be the "Audio Cable", if you have checked that too and you have taken it out and hooked it again to both MainBoard and CD drive then I gues you should try re installing, But Double Check the audio cable 1st, Have a Nice Day Wazir

I would try uninstalling and after a reboot reinstall the cd player and audio compression under "add remove programs" "windows setup tab" if that don't work there is a troubleshooting guide for the soundblaster 16 , but should apply to almost any soundcard here. http://www.americas.creative.com/support/faq/faqresults.asp?Centric=11&faqsub=399#q4

I meant if I already have the software and the connections checked... Wazir

Are these CD`s original or burnt, and if burnt are they CD-R`s or CD-RW`s, and how were they copied/ripped?

If they are newer CD's, they may not play in a PC at all. Some new CD's are being manufactured to ONLY play in a real player, not a CD drive on a PC. This prevents us from ripping the music or copying the CD. :(

Exit to dos, put a music CD in and push the play button on the cd rom front panel (if you have one). If it plays you'll know the problem is software related and not a bad cd or cd rom.