Help - Choppy Sound when playing Music/ Sound

Hi Geeks,
Lately Ive encountered problems with my sound. Every time I use Windows Media Player, or any other program that uses sound, the sound I hear is very choppy for about the first minute or so, then it goes back to normal - until a new track starts, then it's back again. It also starts skipping when I maximise and minimise any folders/programs etc I have open at the time.
Has anyone else had this problem at all or does anyone know anything about it?
Im using XP SP2, I've not installed SP3 yet as Im not sure its a good thing (any good reports on here about it?).
I have no malware/viruses/spyware whatsoever on my pc at the moment, my CPU is running fine and everything else seems to be also, so I'm kinda at a loss as to where this problem has come from, but, its a VERY annoying one.
It just appeared one day when i switched my pc on.
Any comments/help greatly appreciated.
Many thanks in advance:
Skinno

 

The first thing that comes to mind is a possible system memory issue, or maybe the CD lens needs cleaning. Try ending some background programs, then try playing some music. If you have Norton or McAfee for antivirus, they're well known for using up system resources.