sandra, i'm a long time builder installer and sevice person.
theres nothing wrong with vista. i have it installed on several computers in my network.
the problem is that some folks install the os on computers not configured for vista. this vista is a new era in os computing. its an attempt to boost sales for computers/computer parts to be able to run vista. in your case, vista usually runs a scan at first to see if the computer has any issues. most average users don't understand the results of the scan.
i'm sure you did understand, and went ahead with the install.
there are many diagnostic programs in google to help you identify the sound card and its drivers. vista is not a con. no one's arm is ever twisted to buy the os. i still use xp on mosty of my network. i do study vista intensely to be able to help other users.
good luck