Hey everyone, it's time for an update and thanks to your input it's all positive. I don't know how to thank you guys enough. I'm embarassed to admit it but it seems a simple scan and repair program as suggested by Monolithent was all that was required. I've tested Hoster running non-stop for some time and "touch wood", except for the usual laptop "hum" (which I will appreciate advice on by the way) all is well. My first real test will be tonight though when I use it in a real gig for the first time. I'll be holding my breath until the last singer has finished. Once again, you guys "rock".
