so do you have a soundblaster card? is it the Live or PCI512 series? if so use the kernel module EMU10K1 (it should come with ur distro) insmod EMU10K1 or something.
however, its also a question of permissions, whenever i do a fresh install of debian i get that same thing in KDE, id try these steps, they worked for me.
you'll probably need to find your mixer device, which is probably /dev/sound/mixer or /dev/mixer, then make a symbolic link. (ln -s originalfile newfile)
once thats made make sure the mixer/dsp devices are chmod 777 so everybody can enjoy the wealth.
if you can tell me more about your situation (are you root, what kernel modules are installed)