Can I ask what video card you use?
Truth be told I'm only using an on-board 64 mb Intel Graphic Adapter which came with my system Maniacgorgo.
Dreams runs really smooth, but none of this stuff works right if you don't keep up with the maintenance.
And sometimes the maintenance has to be aggressive, such as Registry Defragmenting. There aren't too many apps that does this.
All of my Stardock programs run flawlessly on XP, but I also feel that the major attribution for this wonderfuly care-free experience is constituted most by my constant system up-keep. A system is suppose to fly with or without this stuff, right?
Get your XP system up to optimum performance, then set your bling up. Problems are no longer an issue once you take charge!
Best of luck to you...