Okay, so consider this:

The isolation pad may not be improving the digital data from the CD itself, but all of the other components (power supply, etc) between the laser and the audio output.

I can see your thinking and I'm definitely believing my ears (since I have to trust them ) so perhaps the CD laser isn't what is helped.

I also found a url of a review of some isolation pads:

http://www.soundstage.com/revequip/steve06.htm

and here:

http://www.soundstage.com/revequip/db07.htm

Enjoy!

Paul.

Paul Haigh, 6GB, Blue
Reg: 4120 - Serial 00254