Why only 2 channels w/ latest audio drivers?

This is a weird one. I have been enjoying my speakers, I currently have a 7.1 channel surround system, but the other day all the other channels cut out except for the front two (front left, front right). Here is the kicker. When I go into the driver support software (Realtek HD Audio) and click on the individual speakers, I can get the test tone to play on the other channels loud and clear. All connections are good and I have the latest drivers. Gigabyte GA-M57SLI-S4 motherboard with Realtek HD Audio on-board.
Speakers stopped working suddenly, while switching songs in Winamp. Also, two weeks later, the microphone input also stopped working.

as always, no matter how detailed, questions arise. good question, though.

looks like you did the basic trouble shooting. Do you have another audio program running, or the program you are running your tunes through, is it set to 2 channel output? There could be a conflict somewhere.

2. try reinstalling the drivers, if you have not done so already.

my money is that you have a setting somewhere that is turning off your 7.1 surround sound.

Kicker Audio System