What is in there that is supposed to reflect the laser? It a Red Book-compliant CD?

Modern CD players are cut-down versions of older machines. My Naim forgoes de-emphasis as only older CDs from the 14-bit era used it. Surely one would expect full backward support for a medium designed for a greater-than-human lifespan?

Probably could put a reflective sticker on top of the disc and it would work?