Hi William, A couple of test ideas and questions. Indeed my first wonder would be if anything at all has changed software wise? Say a Linux upgrade that might have changed your audio configuration, or even something that needs you to update the package managing our audio. Second, is this happening with all kinds of content? Try listening to a radio station, if this is possible, to a physical cd if this is possible, to an actual music audio file. Even though Scott feels it might not be the issue, I would check those sliders if there is a control for them. Third, do you have physical speakers that fit into your 3.5 jack? Would let you test if indeed the jack itself is the issue. You referenced your motherboard..does that mean your sound is chip set based, instead of a sound card? granted, not only am I an audiophile, but sound is part of my job. While using a USB boot might help you check the software, I am not, speaking personally, very fond of USB headphones and so forth..I am one of those who can hear the difference smiley face. Karen