@Fats
Are you using update2? I've read on AW.net that most of the problems with SE audio are gone.
@Kronos
Most of the users bought thier system knowing that something could be not 100% working. Read the thread on AW.net Eyetech itslef discouraged soe users to buy an A1 system. As always i want to say that A1 is working great for me, usb is not a grea problem because in you reset the machine in about 8 seconds. for ide, i'm using a Sil card. When the fix will be available in italy i'll do that of course, better to have all working 100%.
Ben Fudding? I've read comments about no Dma at all on A1 and much worse. I'm sorry you are not so balanced on this issue.