Yeah lord.. The entry level ones arent very good (just as entry level mp3 isnt).

Minidiscs are pretty impossible to damage though, theyre enclosed. Sometimes manufactuers produce budget
disks which can become damaged by enrty level/ defective units,thats about it. Been using the format for around 6
years and only ever come across two damaged disks.I dont know anyone who`s owned one & then "upgraded" to mp3,genuinely dont. Also, I disagree with that earlier point about sony investing primarily in mp3 for the future. Theyre just keeping up with market demands,being diverse (as good companies usually do).
Mp3 units are the flavour of the year since they became more affordable. I think the format WILL eventually be the standard but not right now... it`s just not developed enough or as cost effective.