I use the "cheap" onboard realtek sound card in my Media Center PC and have no issues with audio sync.

Microsoft don't really want you building your own Media Center PC (but most enthusiasts do) they want OEM's to build and test it, so the out of the box experience is a good one.

I have had no major issues with my self build box like the "reviewer" did.

Then again I would say that, i just got a MVP in Media Center Big Smile