Are there really any CDs that work to help you learn another language?

Learning a language takes multi-faceted approach. You are not going to learn a language JUST from takes or JUST from books etc...every little bit plays a part. You are not going to be able to make senteces without words. The CD's definitely help, once you have an inventory of words and phrases that you know, even without knowing how they are put together, you can BEGIN to work backwords to how things are constructed, etc. To learn a language, you need to start with words AND phrases AND CDs AND books AND talking to people and so on, the most important thing being around people who are speaking the language...that is the ONLY way you will really gain competency, from hearing it and constantly asking they "how do you say this","why do you say that", and such. With Russian, I started with books, went to tapes, and eventually learned it while hanging around with Russians for years. It's alot of hard work, but ultimately, every little bit, even CD's, makes a difference...hearing something enough times will start to burn it into your memory, and thatplays an important part.

The Rosetta Stone program is really good. However, it's expensive too. I think it costs about $250 - $300. It's cheaper than a trip to Mexico or Spain, but not nearly as much fun. I think you can get a free introductory CD. That would be the way to go to see if it's something you want to try.

You could take a class at a local adult ed program or community college. These are pretty inexpensive, but you have to invest time and you have to be good at a classroom environment.

Rosetta Stone

I heard that while you play top frequency track while you sleep your unconscious brain will bear in mind the tune, however I do not consider it. Well, I on no account did try to the inspiration does appear believable.

take some classes and maybe visit a spanish speaking country.

Could I ask in what respect did the CD you bought 'suck'?