I am using Ubuntu 12.04. I have been able to get rid of tearing while using xbmc but I would like to get rid of it on youtube videos as well. I installed compizconfig and tried some settings someone had recommended with no luck. I am running an ATI/AMD graphics card.
SnapOverflow
if you use/install catalyst drivers for your graphics card, inside the Catalyst Control Center you'll find tearing setting under the monitor options folder that solves that.