Recently I have managed to get a GoldStar 3DO

(looks like that little beastie)
I could use some advice
1. Sound
When you turn this on - is there supposed to be any sound that goes to the intro?
I don't seem to have any... do you need a game-pad plugged in to have sound?
I have tried both RF and Composite RCA (via external powered speakers)
still no sound.
2. Media Mania
The 3DO works fine with a given Audio CD (as in boots to the CD menu), however it seems not to like my Sony CD-R's (tried several burners) alas no go - still making a list of originals to get for my 3DO, so I was hoping to test out my TOSEC library to know what I want.
I have used, ImageBurn, Nero and Alcohol 120, with various CD writers alas the image that works with my FreeDO emulation isn't happy with my 3DO =(
any help or advice would be appreciated.
3. Controllers
Now, before you BAN me, I was hoping to ask if anyone here has had experience with the Serial Adapters that allow you to use SNES/PSx pads with the 3DO?
I have been looking at some schematics and they seem pretty simple to build, with just a TTL logic to Serial I could make a PC GamePad (non usb atm) compatible adapter.
Making just one or two isn't cost effective, but making a few would be =)
Although does anyone know IF/WHERE there might already be a solution that allows me to use say the SNES/PSx Pad, although I have found reference, the only stores I have been able to Google-up proved out of stock =(
thanks for your help in advance =D