@John: Just to clarify, my initial post notes that I run XP. I run only a single user, admin, and no anti-virus on that box. I run it on my home LAN behind a strict linux firewall/router and I download nothing to it and install nothing except from "trusted sources" or if downloaded and scanned on a separate machine. It is a very clean music-only setup with barely five or six apps on it, and has run two older versions of BIAB for years without problems. (I use a Mac or two other XP boxes for all other uses including email and internet browsing.)

It is true, the "Everythingpak" HDD install options were several, but I chose the one to install "everything" to my own, main HDD because I prefer not to have additional devices attached if I don't need it. The install thereafter was "Next, Next, Next..." as far as I can recall, although you are right, I may have selected something along the line which helped create this problem. Also, I have done thorough searches for the file that the error refers to. Finally, as I mentioned, the new version simply does not play songs, it crashes. I am a great fan of BIAB, have used it for years in simple ways on a regular basis. But simple, crystal clear user interfaces and tight, fool-proof documentation I don't consider as among the program's greatest strengths. Finally, the email to BIAB support was a week to ten days ago. I am really not trying to complain, just looking for help to get running again ASAP. Thanks for any suggestions.

@Noel: I understood your meaning anyway. Thanks