To quote the hype:

"Both the Microsoft-led UAA and the Intel High-Definition Audio spec are
complementary initiatives to replace the aged Audio Codec '97
specification from the 1990s with a true high-definition audio
specification with support for streaming, multi-speaker setups, lower
CPU utilization and overall higher quality. From Microsoft's
perspective, a spokesman said, the new driver is designed to be one
"that just works" --allowing a common host controller interface for all
compliant audio chips."

Should we bother with it?
If so, in what way?