A lot depends on what the particles are made of. I'd try to stick with Scotch-Brite or the new Mirlon pads, if at all possible.
(The new Mirlon Total comes in 360, 1500 and 2500 grit:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B001BKXWLM/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_S_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=2LQE2MVU2HTQ4&coliid=I8GIM17A0T9VE&psc=1

If you have to use Abralon or Siaair be cautious; most times they will work, but if the particles are too soft, the abrasive will smooth them out along with the resin. (The original Columbia particles were very soft that way.)
On the other hand, some particles were so hard, Brunswick's originals, you needed special pads, Trizact, to actually change the grit.

I think, in the 95% case, for today's balls, any abrasive will do.

thanks charlest...but, if I were to achieve 3k with 3m SB, the white seems to be the highest grit at 1000 if I remember and grey roughly around 800 grit.

I know;that's why I mentioned the Mirlon Total. I got a sample pack of them and the 2500 grit worked very well, even though the pad itself is thinner than Scotch-Brite pads. Scotch-Brite does have a 2000 grit gold pad.

The ball I'm working with is the Lane Master/legend Black Pearl Blue Ocean. It has xrt 421 particle pearl which I'm assuming is harder than C300 PP.... maybe my Siaair will be okay.. I don't know much about the particle covers..

I have a blue grey and white SB and I find the blue and grey are better/easier on resin than it is on particle balls, but that's just me. it's been a while standing over the sink....lo

I also have a Blue Ocean but haven't drilled it yet. I am not sure of the hardness or softness of its particles. (I thought it didn't have particles.)  I have sanded and shined the Buzz Premium and the newer Red Diamond.  I think the particles were good and stayed effective. You or I could ask Tony Martin; he has been very responsive so far to all my questions.

I have a (actually many)  blue (SB) pad attached to a sponge. I got a pack at BJs warehouse. I think it's about 1000 CAMI, which is about 2000 FEPA, if that helps. We (wife and I) also use it for the kitchen sink as it scratches none of the Teflon and ceramic coated pans we use. Wetting the sponge makes a great flexible holder for your hand and application with a spinner.

I was told by Tony Martin that the Black Pearl Blue Ocean was not particle, it was a new additive but would not expand on it. It sure rolls like a particle though, LOVE this ball. I hit mine with a white sb then polish every week.

Really? the ball chart has the BPBO with a Particle Pearl cover....I'm comfused...