Can someone please tell me how to get around this problem.
Its a USB headset, there is no driver software.

Its a USB headset, there is no driver software.
Are you running as a standard user? Is UAC enabled or disabled? Have you taken ownership of any files or folders? Have you tweaked your system by disabling / setting to manual start any services?
SFC /SCANNOW
Try running the following form CMD prompt to let it fix your system files
Code:SFC /SCANNOW
Actually, first and foremost I'd return ownership of that file to whatever it was before - that is a hidden and critical system file that should *not* be messed with.
I am searching for that file to see if I even have it.
Mak its plugged into the motherboard so I am sure its powered.
Stormy, its the 3rd one on your list