Manually removed each c++ item in control panel. Rebooted. xdmd error removed, kernalbase error remained, back to netvideoplayer error. Reinstalled c++ via Nov 2024 all in one.... netplayer error gone, xdmd error returns. Reboot. No luck.
Turned to .net issues. Can't unistall. Went and removed a few .net optoins (mainly printing options). Rebooted. Errors. Installed 6.55, WORKING!
This was a fresh install and stuff is messed up (looks like PBX lite) but I think we're on the right track. Going to put old version back and will update on results.
Turns out the 'messed up' look was because I backed up my setting and then went vanilla. Transferred over my inis and we're back baby!!!
So to wrap up, I (think) it was a .net issue... there's a chance that doing nothing but installing 6.55 would have fixed it. I think I was using 6.54 with no success. Either way, thank goodness the nightmare is over. "
Thanks for all the help and advice guys! The c++ reinstall really put me on the right path.
Case closed (officially this time)