How do I bypass KMixer in Windows XP

I was using Window Vista, but decided to use my old laptop with Win XP instead. I will continue to use iTune via USB to Benchmark DAC-1.

Some questions after reading this thread.

1. I followed the instructions in Benchmark website, but I can't adjust the volume once I had my Benchmark attached as the volume was grey out. does that mean I don't need to worry about it any more?
2. if I followed all the steps in Benchmark web, does that mean I don't need ASIO4all?

Want to bring this back up to the top of the pile, as my new Keces 152 USB DAC/Headphone amp is waiting at the p.o. for me to pick up tomorrow a.m. I have a very basic question:
1. If you use i-tunes to manage your music library (I have an ipod for traveling so that kind of makes sense for me) can you also use these other players I have been reading about like Foobar and J. River and so forth?

I have found the easiest and most effective is unmapping the device (example uses Empirical Audio device):

Go to Control Panel - System Hardware - Device Manager - Sound Video and Game Controllers – Empirical 1.1 - Right-Click and select Properties - Audio Devices – Empirical 1.1 - Properties - Set "Do not use audio features" and set "Do not map through this Device"

You will need to reboot and then if you change it back to mapped, then you must re-boot

Steve N.
Empirical Audio

Steve N. - Thanks so much for the detailed and easy to follow explanation. Then do I need to install a different "driver" or other software. I am using a USB DAC (sorry, not yours but its for a 3rd rig in my home office) and just downloaded J. River Jukebox. I'm reasonably competent in following instructions but I am not sure I totally understand the conceptual framework for PC audio.

You dont need any other driver than what your sound device provides, if any.

Just substitute your device for Empirical 1.1 above. I did this recently for a Lynx card. Worked perfectly.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio