It probably would detract from the forums.
I'd love to develop a version of the site in either a program or something like VRML (or the new version, I think it's X3D), Adobe Atmosphere, Flash, or Director that allows from some voice chat in a comfortable setting.
I was actually thinking about it earlier this evening as I was walking home from work, coincidentally enough.
It could serve as a "live source" when we have important announcements at Birdy's or the
AA dinners if streamed via cam, etc.
Still unsure if I'll attempt something at this point.
The main advantage of a non-realtime chat solution like the boards we're on is if someone says something and someone else isn't there to hear it immediately, they won't be lacking the moment because they can just come back and see it on the threads.
Christ I hope I made sense there. Lol.