In addition to the Sonar "share audio device", there is a setting for exclusive mode on the Windows side of the sound settings too.
 

abacab
In addition to the Sonar "share audio device", there is a setting for exclusive mode on the Windows side of the sound settings too.
 

Since I've never (IIRC) seen that dialog I have to assume I'm set to whatever the Win10 Upgrade set me to.
 
But when I say I've been able to play Windows Media Player AND SONAR simultaneously I mean from WIN XP Pro on through Win 7 Pro Clean Install through to Win 10 Pro upgrade.

Personally I have been using an external audio interface on my main PC for years as the only audio device, FOR EVERYTHING, without difficulty.  It is much easier to send everything out to one set of monitors/speakers that way. 
 
I have generally kept my onboard audio disabled in the BIOS.  I recall trying to use both audio drivers at one time, but that became impractical for me.
 
One weird thing that I have noticed, is that when using one app that grabs the ASIO driver, such as Sonar, is that if I start another app such as Reaper that needs ASIO, I get the "no driver available" alert.  But Windows, browsers, and other media apps seem to get along fine as long as they are not configured specifically to use ASIO.
 

DethBringa
It seems to be pulling me in the exact opposite direction of where I want to go.
number 1 is gaming with a close 2nd being communication. Anything locking me out of that without a real gain isn't what I'm after. Playing with programs like sonar really is way down the list unless there is a gain without loss.

Actually, something like these are all you probably need for your microphone ... for $99 ... each has one XLR mic input, plus one instrument input.  And nothing you don't really need, except for more bundled software
 
Focusrite Scarlett Solo (2nd Gen) USB Audio Interface
Scarlett Solo is our simplest and most compact interface. It's ideal for singer songwriters and guitar players looking for the easiest way to record studio-quality music onto Mac or PC.
https://www.amazon.com/Fo...ce-Tools/dp/B01E6T56CM
 
M-Audio M-Track 2X2 C-Series
With M-Audio’s C-Series Interfaces, high-quality signal capture has never been easier.
New, pro-grade 'Crystal' Preamps provide musicians and producers with a transparent, low-noise solution that guarantees to get the best out of your microphone and capture your performance the way it was intended to be heard. A +48V Phantom Power Switch ensures compatibility with all microphone types, including sensitive condenser mics.
https://www.amazon.com/M-Audio-M-Track-2X2M-Interface-24-bit/dp/B01FFH5XMC/ref=dp_ob_title_ce?th=1

originally I was going to look at a presonus audiobox but got talked into the tascam. almost feel taSCAM.

Did you do what I recommended? TASCAM interfaces work just fine, lots have been sold.

DethBringa
originally I was going to look at a presonus audiobox but got talked into the tascam. almost feel taSCAM.

This type of post, despite your frustration, will not help your cause.
 
Just a heads up.

Anderton
Did you do what I recommended? TASCAM interfaces work just fine, lots have been sold.

 
Yes, on page 3.

So what the did the settings panel say? And did you have any problems uninstalling the mixer app?

Well the usb driver is older than the one included in the bundle so installing that separate is a no go. But if I want to use sonar I need to first do clean install of drivers+software file then plug in the tascam unit, then set all audio output to my HDMI screen (cant use my speakers), then set my webcam mic as the default mic (cant use my new mic), then set the mixer app to DAW. I also have to exit anything that can access audio (speakers and or mic). Only after all that can I use sonar. BUT if I forget to change all of that and accidentally load up sonar without changing all that I have to go back and re-do all those steps.
 
Long story short, I have to choose.
A) Sonar
or
B) speakers and mic