Rhythmbox Plays Static
Solution 1:
I think it's crossfading.
See if it's turned on in your preferences, I was having the exact same problem.
If it is turned on, turn it off and then restart Rhythmbox.
Solution 2:
I've logged a bug, it's seems the right thing to do, I've seen this issue around, if this bug affects anyone else, subscribe here: https://bugs.launchpad.net/ubuntu/+source/rhythmbox/+bug/666199
Solution 3:
It's distortion that's coming from the volume conrol in Rhythmbox. Turn down the volume in the application and you're good to go!