I've had good luck with both mini discs and CD-Rs, using them to play backing tracks while soloing on guitar. I take both along in case of problems encountered. I use shelf-top models with the "spin dial", where you can easily find the appropriate track number (if not playing the tunes in order). In contrast to those who play live dance music, entertainment shows, etc. where the pressure is on to keep things moving, my venues are generally laid-back listening settings only. Here, I can play about anything. Even still, I try to mix-up the styles, tempos, and keys so that the tunes don't all sound the same. So far, everything has worked great. The few times I tried playing live with a computer, I had nothing but crashes and problems. The mini disc/CD-R route seems more reliable and comfortable in my applications.