ffdshow is very good indeed.
Further though, I don't use or like codec packs. I only install the codecs I need and nothing more. I feel this helps eliminate many problems and gives me greater control over how my content is filtered and recognized.
For example, the next time you find a media file you can't play, you should try identifying what codecs you should be using through programs like GSpot, or directly from the source of your media file. Download those specific codecs and forego the packs entirely. I don't consider ffdshow a pack, however.