In my recently-assumed role of "Mister Computer Geek" I learned to diagnose problems with the built-in speakers that came with my monitor.
I had bought and installed a new HP computer- pre-loaded with the Deluxe Home Edition of Windows Vista , fitted out with all sorts of bells and whistles, possessed of more memory than a wronged and vengeful ex-spouse; and equipped with a huge 19" high-fidelity flat screen speaker/monitor...which steadfastly refused to produce a sound !
Naturally, being Mr. Computer Geek, I ran the elaborate diagnostic program which comes with Vista.
This program, after much chuffing, hemming, hawing, and many "please wait while we check out the framistan doodlebug circuitry" messages,finally announced all was in A-1 order...but there was still no sound !
Finally, after much research (paging through HP's pdf files,etc.) I decided to re-check the simple,pictorial setup guide that came with the machine,and to take a long hard look at the back of the monitor.
Oh ? Could that little white icon mean something ? Hmmm... How about this other connection : the one I'm using ? The one with the little "headset" symbol ?
I am happy to announce the sound system works MUCH much better when you plug the sound jack into the sound outlet-instead of the "earphones" outlet !
Take it from Mr. Computer Geek : It can't hurt to refer to the instructions once in a while - even if somebody catches you doing it !!
(Don't you wish our politicians would "study the instructions" once in a while too ?)