I did check Sony for updates, and the only audio driver they have for my system is the SoundMax driver that I've already updated; separate from the MS one that had a 'yellow!'. I'll just try updating every driver they have for my model and see what happens. After that I'll have my buddy back home help me by remote to see if we can figure it out.

Format?! I would if I had a CD. I got a legit key that came w/ the system, but no CD. If I'm going to go through the trouble...

I started looking at bare-bones systems cause it just may be time to upgrade. It's a Pentium 4 2.8Ghz that I've had for 6 years or so. My 2 DVD drives are new so the less I need to buy for a new system the better.