Thanks GHamer. Now I just need to figure out what to possibly look for and then maybe I can exterminate this damm bug!
PCI Latency Tool-
Set latency for your video card at 64.
Leave all others alone, normally they don't need tweaked.
Make certain the tool is running at startup and that it is reapplying the tweak.
If you do not specifically set it to do this, the change is temporary.
TaskInfo-
As soon as you hear the stutter, open TaskInfo and see which apps have the highest CPU usage. The history will give you a bit to see which is or has been high.
You can configure the history and for this purpose I'd set it as high as it will go.
Everest Home-
I'd look at the IRQs. Perhaps one is shared with the sound card and causing a problem. Usually they do not, but since other avenues have not helped, it is something I'd look at.
Everest Home also gives suggestions if it sees something it thinks is odd.
Click each component and see what if anything it recommends.
Finally, I know you have done it, but look at the System event logs carefully after a stumble too. Easier to do if you empty the Application and System logs before you start MC.
Somehow, somewhere, somebody isn't playing nicely. If none of this gives you any indication, then it may be time to play everyone's favorite, Format and reinstall XP. If you have to go that route, I'd install XP, install the latest MC, allow Windows Update to patch. Run for awhile. All ok? Add a program. All ok? Add another. You get the idea.
I love a mystery!