Dell Inspiron 1720 audio playback choppy/skipping problem

Hello,

I have a Dell Inspiron 1720 and any time I attempt to play mp3's with either Media Monkey or even Windows Media player, I get a slight choppy or skipping sound.  I have looked at task manager and both my CPU usage and Memory never get above 45%.  I have Windows Vista installed.  Could this be the problem?  I believe the audio device is SigmaTel.  When I do a search for new audio drivers, it states that they are all up to date.  Please help!  I am at my wits end here!

Thanks!