I think that there is far too much variation in sound cards for them to be supported in the generic initial kernel. Perhaps support for whatever the most typical sound setup might be could be compiled in. I don't know. That would only help a subset of new users anyway. My impression is that the 'sound industry' needs to arrive at a common protocol before Linux could achieve generic sound support. Instead, they climbed in bed with Mr. Gates.
Meanwhile, we'd be happy to try to help you compile a kernel if you provide some details as to the "dismal results" you've gotten. Richard Hall Network Services University of Tennessee