I haven't followed the latest development on openAL vs directsound in vista. I know that x-fi and audigy will not work without HAL (directsound) since microsoft remove the support of it. X-fi and Audigy user will stuck with software rendered audio.
But seriously Creative has mishandled the situation although its concerned their ownership of tangible rights.
Hurr, my only experience with creative card was only 30 minutes and i sold it to my friend. That was audigy 2 card few years back then.

Nothing beats a dedicated DAC when it comes to stereo playback. No fuss on bloated drivers and unnecessary junks.