Do it!

[335th_GRAthos]

Very interesting Bliss, thanks for sharing!

I never had any problems with my sound so I can not comment on the usefulness of a clean installation for those with sound problems. Probably, the fact that I never experienced sound problems is a confirmation that some files on other peoples' computers had gone bad thus a re-install is a good solution.

Regarding your flying time online, I would say that you need to fly intercept against bombers. This is the moment where you see your RAM utilisation growing to unbearable levels.
I have also tested staying on the ground. While on the ground for one hour, absolutely no memory increase.
Therefore, you can well fly for hours as long as you meet certain conditions and the situation you described fits to that category (very little enemy contact and (presume) high alt flying).

~S~