MP3 Compatability
NOTE: MP3/WMA playback is only available (from the OEM stereos) with the 2006 Model. The previous models do not play back WMA or MP3 files.
Now... having said that... you CAN create what is called a "Red Book" CD that is playable on most CD players. I cannot say All, as some CD Players have problems reading CD-R or CD+R discs.
A "Red Book" format CD is the same format that you get when you buy a CD from a store. The format of the music is called the "Red Book" format. (Don't ask me why)
Now for those that have a 2006 with the BOSE system (I don't know if every stereo option has MP3/WMA playback) you can copy your MP3 and WMA files directly to a CD-ROM just like it was a hard drive, a memory stick, etc. These files will then play back on your stereo.
If your MP3s have ID3 tags (which is a standardized format for data within the music stream) you will even see data on the stereo display like song title, artist or albumn.
NOTE: Not all CD players will play ALL types of recordable CD media. Not every brand or type of CD-R, CD+R, CD-RW or CD+RW is compatible with every player.
I have used the CD-R format for years and find that everything I have ever tried to play it in, works. I have had best results with the blue or purplish media. Gold ones work most of the time, but not always.
Hopefully this information was helpful. I don't claim to have all the answers, but if you have questions, I will try to help.