I am trying to fiddle with linux audio sub-system. Basically, I am trying to understand how audio input/ouput flows (use of audio encoders etc) when running a linux image on Vbox. Anyone know a good place to start or a good book to refer to.
Your best bet is to follow the Linux Audio User Group. They have a number of resources on their website and their mailing list is also quite active.
This should act as a good starter guide: http://lau.linuxaudio.org/Sound-HOWTO.html