ok, if you select speakers, then select properties, make sure that the jack listed at the bottom is green and says headphone jack. And make sure it says use this device.
Then go to levels, make sure that and the balance are both set to 100.
Then go to enhancements. If something is checked, try unchecking it.
then after that, go to advanced. I have mine set to the default 16 bit 44100 CD quality.
Now exit out of there pressing ok.
now click configure while speakers is still configured in the other box.
If you are just using 2 little desk speakers, select stereo, press next, then finish.
I know it's gonna sound noobish, but make sure that there is a check by the speakers icon.
Tell me if this changes anything.