Mp3 Songs Are Distorted Due To Hardware

[RSP2RSP2]

These days, when I play any MP3 music (on CD or my hard drive), the sound is distorted.

I have done a number of tests to confirm that the problem is my PC (and not another variable).

1. When I play a normal audio CD on the same PC, the sound is crystal clear.

2. When I play those MP3’s on another PC (via CD), the sound is crystal clear too.

3. I have make sure all my PC audio levels are set correctly (nothing “over or under” driven).

4. However, playing any MP3 (on CD or hard drive) on my PC gives me distortion).

I MUST STRESS THE ABOVE 4 TESTS I HAVE DONE. THIS RULES OUT SOME SUGGESTED POSSIBILITIES.

I have read on the internet that sometimes, updating soundcard drivers helps the problem.

I am using built in audio from my Asus P4G8X motherboard. I am scared to mess with driver updates.

Can someone suggest an idiot proof way for me to fix my problem? Thanks much people!

[miss031]

Vista?

If so, I can't remeber exactly where, but there are some settings in the audio section (? - Sorry, the laptop I'm now on has XP), but you can change the room type, like bathroom, concert hall, etc., and I accidentally set my Vista system to the wrong room type, and it sounded really distorted and terrible, like my speakers were screwed or something. That might hopefully be a simple fix...