I was getting popping and static while navigating through the OS and different applications. I installed the latest Realtek AC97 drivers and so far it's very clean.

http://www.realtek.com.tw/downloads/...&Software=True

Cool, Thanks.

Funny, had the laptop for less than a month and already replaced 3 main drivers. None of which are on the Gateway site. (Video, Sound, Wireless)

This doesn't make sense. I removed the Realtek drivers last night and then disabled the audio device and my Audigy still popped. Why would an unrelated driver affect another card in this way?

I wound up taking the Audigy back yesterday. After installing the newest Creative drivers, and researching fixes through Google, I couldn't get the damn thing to run without the hissing/popping noises. It was so bad when playing Halo that I almost threw the card through the window.

I'll either get a different card or wait until Creative gets off their asses and does something to resolve the matter.

If I understand skih00k correctly, he said it solved his audio issues. He never said he was using any card other than the Realtek.

From what I read on the Audigy popping, it could be fixed changing the latency, but since I dont have one I can't verify that.

Also if trying to use 2 cards uninstall all instances of the built in card, disable it, then install all of the SB drivers.

It would be nice if we had an option in the BIOS to turn off the sound instead.

I tried the newer drivers as skih00k said above. No difference whatsoever. I sure would like to hear if it worked or not for anyone else.

Skih00k appears to have resolved a popping problem on his internal audio. He mever made mention of having an Audigy and curing that problem unless I'm missing someting in his post?

You know what? I bet your right. I assumed he was talking about the Audigy popping. I am outta here!