I know this isnt right for this topic, but anyways, what are these blotches or swirls I see on the data side of some original CD or DVD's ? factory imperfections maybe? Only once has one been unplayable. Also, does anyone know if there is a new Audio CD protection out. I converted a newly bought CD to MP3, and every so often the songs will fade out. Not completly out but low enough.

BTW, the CD that I converted is one that has the blotches i'm talking about. It doesent fade out when played in a CD player, just when I convert it.