i looked up my sound card and i have soundmax integrated digital audio. my problem is that whenever i am playing a nascar racing game i lose my sound for a short period of times while i am racing. it comes and goes. i sent an e mail to the game maker and they told me to update my sound card but i need help . could you guide me along please

you could try to check the PC manufacturers website. If that doesnt work, find the motherboard manufacturers website. Look for some updated audio drivers. Its unfortunate, but most "integrated" stuff is of very poor quality. another tip: check to make sure the sound system is not sharing any IRQ's or rescourses with something else. Also, does your sound only come and go in that particular game? If not, Sounds like it could even be something as simple as a funky speaker jack.

Jeff, I also have Soundmax Integrated Audio, and my system does the same thing. Not only on games, but also on internet phone calls, and listening to music as well! It has been doing that sound fade in and out since I bought this Compaq computer! I have checked my speaker wires, and they seem fine. I couldn't find any new audio drivers...if you somehow find a fix for yours, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE let me know! Joe, A friend told me a NEW audio card would work (although why I should get a new audio card for a new computer, I don't know!). What are your opinions on that? Do you think buying a new audio card would help Jeff or me? I'm NOT impressed with this Soundmax Integrated Audio... Thanks for *listening* :) Tara

I have a Presario 5WV270 that had the same problem. I put in a sound blaster live 5.1 and a External modem. Now it sounds great, with no more sound drops. Just make sure you disable the AC97 codec in the BIOS, which disables the onboard sound, before you install the card and drivers. If someone suggests to update the BIOS with the VIA 4in1 drivers, you need to keep in mind this voids you're warranty, if you still have one that is.