Distorted sound in recording tracks

[TDub]

Hey All,
I'm new user with MBox and though not recommended or supported, am using it on a Dell PIII 933mhz with 384mb ram. So, I set up system, and all seemed well. Input some drum tracks (previously recorded in protools free) and all is fine. Then trying to record additional tracks (such as an acoustic guitar or electric guitar) and it comes out distorted, almost underwatery sound. Sometimes throughout whole track, sometimes just in parts. Furthermore, often it will stop me partway through track to give an error saying "Held off interuptions too long. Try increasing hardware buffer size".error -6086 or 9073 I think. Well HW buffer is maxxed!! Anyhow, I'm at my wits end, so anyone experienced this before or have any suggestions? I would really appreciate any help available! Thanks all. TDub

[tele_player]

What version of ProTools? Are you using Windows XP Service Pack 1? SP1 is very important for Mbox.

[TDub]

Thanks for quick response.
I'm using PT6.7. I believe it is windows xp Pro but with sp1. I don't have internet connection on that computer either.

[Stiff]

Right-click on "my computer" and choose "properties", there you can see if it has SP1 or not.

[TDub]

It does not state anything other than XP Professional. I have service pack 2 at work computer, and it states that it is SP2, when I check. But mine does not, so i assume that means it is sp1.

[JPS]

I don't think I would asume anything with a Dell computer. You can aslo check your version by going to programs >accessories >system tools >system information. Then look for OS Version. It should also tell you that info.

[TDub]

hahaha, yeah i've heard some weird things about Dell. Too bad, cause its been a good computer. Just now having difficulties with PT LE. I will have to check that when I get home (at work now and not set up for internet at home . . . was hoping not having net set up would be one less worry toward using PT, but . . . ). ANyhow, provided it is sp1 . . . any suggestions on what this might be? Only advise I got from tech support was to try disabling my internal sound card. Did that . . still doesn't work!! I'm really frustrated !

[TDub]

Hey everyone . . . just wondering if anyone has any suggestions for this problem? Probably end up buying new computer but I'm a little wary about that solution, as I see there are people with PIII's that swear by them, and people with newer upgraded cpu's who are having problems!! Again any help would be greatly appreciated!

Dell PIII 933mhz
20gig hd
win xp pro
384mb ram