Ok, this is really damn strange... but the problem is solved.

I think what must of happened is somehow the IDE cable was -just- loose enough that it worked in Windows but didn't work in Linux (don't ask me why, I have NO clue). I messed around with the connectors on the MB, resocketing them and suddenly the CD boots up without problem.

I must say, Knoppix 3.2 looks quite pretty and I love the PPPoE configuration script which instantly found the connection and set it up with no difficulty at all. I am definitely very happy now... all I need to do is D/L the new english CD that actually starts with english as a default

Whoop! Knoppix rocks...