Recently, I started using Banshee to play music on my work laptop, which runs Ubuntu. However, I found that I had sound multiplexing issues: No other sounds would work when Banshee was playing (or even when it was paused). It looks like despite many other things seemingly sharing the sound device nicely, Banshee didn't play well with others. After some internet searching, I got a pointer to this thread on the Ubuntu Forums. I following the instructions there, except the whole patching SDL thing, I figured I'd only go there if I found that I had an SDL app that didn't work. So far, so good, and it seems like it even works in Wine (the post claims that it doesn't work with Wine), and without using padsp! We'll see if I run into any problems, but so far, I'm quite happy. Anyways, just wanted to share in case someone else has the same problem. (I actually rather like Banshee. It definitely pwns Rhythmbox.)
LinuxWorld is no longer as cool or fun as it once was, but I tend to find it worth it just to get the latest Debian t-shirt. I often donate to the EFF as well when I'm there, and sometimes there is something else neat to see on the floor. It is currently possible to register for a free exhibits pass. They apparently also have www.linuxworldexpo.com/live/12/ehall//SN460564">community days, which you can register for (also free!). I registered for the Ubuntu one, hopefully I'll be able to make at least part of that. Anyways, if you're going to go, drop me a line, and maybe we can meet up at the show.