Question : Problem: Sound is scratchy, distorted, and sometimes system hangs for a few seconds

The sound on my laptop is distorted, scratchy, and sometimes the system hangs for a couple of seconds.  I tried certain tweaks,   I installed newest Realtek Driver.  I am at a loss on what to do hear.
NOTE: If i use external speakers then the sound is still distorted.  It is some system setting that is the issue.

Realtek driver info:
Realtek Semiconductor Corp.
9/9/2008
5.10.0.5700

Answer : Problem: Sound is scratchy, distorted, and sometimes system hangs for a few seconds

Boot your PC using a LiveCD like Knoppix or Mepis. If those OS's recognize your soundcard test it by playing some sound music. If you still get bad sound output, then it is a hardware problem and you should get a warranty replacement (if you still have warranty), get the laptop repaired, or live with it if repairing is too dear.

http://knoppix.net
http://mepis.org