Solid Hardwood, Engineered and Laminate Flooring - float over the top of carpet?

We have a large kitchen that someone decided to carpet many moons ago. They glued the whole thing down (not just on the edges, but mastic'd the whole thing to the subfloor).

I'd like to put a floating floor in, the engineered or manufactured wood floor type (more natural looking than laminates).

I had one person suggest to me just laying the floor over the top of the exisitng carpet. Is this wise? What are the downsides? The difference in height won't be a problem for doors or transition to other rooms.

If not, whats the best way to get the carpet up?

One other item. The subfloor does squeak in a few spots and is a bit "soft" in a 2x2 area just in front of the fridge.

Bob

There was a time when some makers of wood and laminate said you could install over direct gluedown carpet, but I don't think they still suggest it. Too many potential problems. Better to take up the old, screw down the squeaks, and address the soft spot. Hardwood isn't cheap, and though it may be a tough weekend of tearout and repair, you'll be glad you did. Cut the rug into narrow strips to pull out. The tougher the bond, the narrower the strip. Kahrs and Harris Tarkett are two of the best. Most of them are two or three rows per plank, but HT makes one that is single plank look. Planks are about 7.5" wide, and 6 to 7.5 feet long. (give or take)