My corner of the intarw3b!

I have some annoyances with my (current) favorite linux flavor -Ubuntu Hardy Heron (8.04).

Unfortunately, the default audio config for ubuntu.. pulse audio.. in a word.. sucks.  Hard.
Rip it off and replace it with alsa.. your microphone may not work, but at least the audio output from amarok and the like won't give you a headache with the stuttering and horrible sound quality.
Comprehensive Sound Problem Solutions Guide - Ubuntu Forums