Kubuntu + Google Talk or Skype crackling sound

[Hwasung Lee]

Hello all,

Since I have installed Kubuntu 11.04, I have been experiencing some
crackling sounds. What is odd is that it doesn't happens to all of the
programs. The symptoms:

1. Crackling sound when using Google Talk plugin
2. Crackling sound when using Skype
3. Crackling sound disappears after a few minutes on Google Talk or
Skype, as if my computer is an old vacuum tube amplifier!
4. *No* crackling sound using other programs like flash or Amarok

Does any one know how to fix this thing? I have tried solutions
ranging from a fresh reload of Kubuntu and some other suggestions on
the Ubuntu forum.

Thank you in advance. Mars