I have: SuSE 7.3 Linux 2.4.10-4GB i686 Ensoniq AudioPCI ES1371 @ 0xd000, irq 5 Sound Driver: 3.8.2-980706(ALSAv0.5.11 emulation code) I have artsd set to start automatically (default in Kontrol Center). If artsd is running, xmms complains: Please check that: 1. You have the correct output plugin selected 2. No other programs is blocking the soundcard 3. Your soundcard is configured properly. If I kill artsd, xmms operates properly. All other sound clients seem to operate properly after killing artsd, but most report that they do not have access to /dev/dsp if artsd is running ??? I need some hand-to-hand here. I am lost! -- Patrick Shanahan Registered Linux User #207535 @ http://counter.li.org