Steve,
Might help you narrow your search. I believe the reports regarding SC's poor media started coming in late last summer or early fall. Start with Microstudio around Aug.2001 and work forward. I believe the bulk of them were there. There was at least one bad one posted out of the mainstream, but I can't recall where. Only takes one horror tale to get the picture anyway.
I'd conclude the problem is chiefly with those who are sliding their discs in and out of carriers and choose to use originals at shows rather than chance running afoul of the law, and does not affect the casual user, or the owner of a high capacity cd player.
I quit buying S.C. not for that reason, but I'll not finance their use of Media Clog and have it wind up industry wide. I agree that their arrangements are some of the best around, but am willing to forgo that temporarily if boycotting them will make an example of them to the rest of the industry. Just my feelings on the subject, which I'll express at every opportunity, and to which I am entitled to.
That's why they have chocolate and vanilla ice cream.
Hope this helps
George