On Sunday 06 September 2009, Harry Putnam wrote:
> Kernel modules: snd-intel8x0

Assuming you have the right kernel driver compiled and the module loaded 
(search in the help pages of the Intel sound device drivers when you run make 
menuconfig to make sure you have chosen the right one) then you should check:

a) dmesg for any errors when you boot up or load the respective module.
b) Run alsaconf as root which will unmute your card and configure sound.
c) Run alsamixer as plain user to set up the sound as you like it (after you 
check that your user belongs to the audio group).
d) Read http://www.gentoo.org/doc/en/alsa-guide.xml and 
http://en.gentoo-wiki.com/wiki/ALSA in case I have missed something 
important.

Hope this helps.
-- 
Regards,
Mick