Hello Frank,
After reading your reply above I get the distinct impression that you think my platinum live would do the job just fine if I had it set up properly!

Please don't get me wrong....I don't mind being told I am at fault rather than my equipment .....a) it might save me buying a new card & b) If there is a wrong way to do something then thats how I do it first

I would be most grateful if you could tell me which settings I need to change to eliminate this 'crack' sound I get when recording audio. (Midi is fine). I have the latest drivers for soundblaster and xp (got them from windows update). I only use the basic software from creative (audio HQ) as some of the other stuff like remote center and Live player seem to make matters worse.

Any hints you could give would be much appreciated.

Best wishes to you
Tony W