Thanks again guys!
I've had no problem except the noted conflict between MS Mediaplayer & SEIV Gold both trying to play my music CDs.
I figured it out (ie fixed 'my' headspace & timing for those familiar with the ol M2HB.)
I was just concerned before I bought SEIV Gold since I didn't see any (maybe I missed it) official Shrapnel "This game works with MS's XP."
Thanks for the repeated feedback ... and I'll probably play with SEIV for a while. Hopefully I'll have time to start to multiplayer & at least load/play some of the mods.
take care