That is not the configuration tab 
I noticed that after I posted it--unfortunately, ImageShack is telling me that I have over 500 photos and won't upload any more. I deleted some so I could upload the picture of the configuration tab but apparently you would probably have to start a new account under a different name and email address to upload more (or pay a premium to them). I can tell you what the configuration tab shows though, it is so little it is easy.
Built-In Audio
Profile: Off (this is the top one, the one for HDMI which I don't have)
Built-In Audio
Profile: Analog Surround 5.1 Output
How many speakers do you have connected? Two?
Change the second one to Stereo out if so.
Set the first one to Analogue Stereo Out if the option is present. If only Digital options present themselves leave it off.
Play an audio file and go to the Playback tab.
With the file playing you should get an option for volume slider so you can see if audio is being routed to the selected audio card (drop-down on that tab if more than one card enabled) .... you can enable the Digital/HDMI card on the config tab to see this choice.
On the Output Devices Tab, make sure that you can see a visual indication of the audio playing.
Make adjustments if necessary.
Would it be better/easier if I just installed fresh and started over? At this point I don't know what to do and don't know whether I would gain anything by doing that or not.
Because there is no indication as yet that a reinstall would help, I do not see the point ...... what it might do is cause you to start all over again trying to find the cause of the problem.