Peter,
From your description, it sounds like you are running audio with generic audio drivers, instead of RealTek's Azalia driver.
You aren't going to mess anything up by installing the manufacturers device driver.
I would leave what you have in place and install the RealTek driver over the top.
R2.70 win7
R3.75 win8
However, I would create a manual Restore Point of my own if you are concerned. Additionally, you should have a back up solution implemented and in place which would protect you from issues any way.