Windows XP Volume Control Issues

Factual Questions
1

Hi! I tried googling this, but I never came up anywhere with my exact issue.

Whenever I try to open the volume control in Windows XP, I get a “Master Volume” program being shown running in the taskbar that cannot be restored, maximized, or in any way made visible. I’ve tried fixing the registry entries and reinstalling the volume control off of my install disc, but while the icon shows up in the system tray, and my sound normally plays fine, I can’t actually bring up the volume control itself. (I can change the volume through other applications, or through “adjust volume properties”, but never directly).

Does anyone know how I might fix this, and what could cause it?

2

If I double-click on it, it brings up a volume control. I can also right-click and get two options.

3

Exactly – I only get a taskbar entry when I double-click on it. There is no way for me to actually use the master volume control, even through the Start Menu or the Windows directory itself.

4

Was it always like this since first installation, or only since what change or update?