Glad to see you made it to the light.
I'm not sure about the "creaking" problem or of your definition of "light weight".
I'm also having trouble with the "third party software that didn't quite work with mac" What is that? Did you go installing Windows software? What sort of software did you install a "lot of".
Repartitioning the disk does not "wipe it clean", it just changes the directories so that the drive appears empty. All the data is still there.
I suggest that you take the installation CD's that came with the machine and, after booting from the CD, do a Format and Install. Follow this up with all the available updates.
Once this is complete and you have set the machine up again, you should have your sound back. If it fails, go back to Apple with your original case number, given to you when you first complained, and continue the troubleshooting. They will tell you to re-install the OS again, because it says so in the troubleshooting guide, but if it then fails, they will fix it under warranty. Tell them about the creaking, too.
Remember, from your description of the problem, it is self induced.
Keep us informed
P
I've recently purchased a brand new ibook g4 (OS X 10.4.2) and have been experiencing some issues with it. Basically, the trackpad, the mouse button, and the area in front of the keyboard (especially on the right side) creak when there is any (light) weight put on them. I noticed this a few days after I had opened the box. It needs to be very quiet to hear this. I'm wondering, does anybody have similar issues? Is this going to turn into a big problem in the future? Why could this thing be happening?
Issue 2: I recently had problems with numerous apps crashing, the system hanging, and the OS itself crashing. This may have been due to installation of some third party software that didn't quite work with mac. Anyway, because I had installed a lot of stuff I decided to reinstall the OS.
I partitioned the disc (which wipes it clean) and I reinstalled OS X using the cd which came with the box. Now that it's all set up it seems to be working ok except for two things (so far). The F1-F5 keys do not work. I spoke with tech support and they were stumped (said they'll get back to me). I can change volume and brightness by going into the respective apps, but these keys have no effect except to cause a sound when I press them (you know, that sound that you get when the OS won't let you do something).
I feel quite let down and frustrated as I'd heard so many good things about mac. I invested about 2 grand into this (including tax and warranty) and this is already happening.
Sorry about the length of my post. I would appreciate any insights that any of you may have.

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