Headset problems

I've got a little problem with the mic on my headset.

While I was playing CSS today, my mic suddenly stopped transmitting. Being of a computer-literate upbringing (to a degree ), I knew to check the devices in the recording devices (I run Vista Home Premium 64 bit, btw), and the ones that had the 'USB multi channel audio device', or '2 - USB audio' after reinstalling and relocating the headset, were shown to be 'currently unavailable'. The mic is NOT muted, nor is the volume set at zero. I found every last damn slider relating to the thing and set them ALL to the maximum, and made sure no mute boxes were ticked. A cascade update of mobo, GFX and sound drivers also did nothing. I have seen some other solutions, but they (obviosuly) didn't work properly.

Another problem, though mostly irritating, is that the damn cables keep winding themselves up. To better explain, I'd like you to get a string, or something similar, hold it so they form a U with one hand, then twist the lowest point. The subsequent shortening of the wire is what happens to me in three or four places... Again, it's more of a mild irritant, but it's always worth a shot!!

I'd much rather get an answer for the mic problem. If anybody knows any tips THAT WILL KEEP THE HEADSET IN WARRANTY concerning issue #2, please post them