OS: Windows 98SE
RAM: 383MB
Sound Card: SoundMax Integrated Digital Audio

I had a great deal of music transfered to this computer about a month ago and I've been using it primarily for listening purposes, so this is causing me quite a bit of frustration.  It just started the other day, but previously was corrected eventually with repeated restarts.  Today I've had no such luck, and I've worked tirelessly to fix this problem for the duration of the evening.

Anyways, when I restart, the usual Windows 98 start up sound begins, "hiccups" and then DIES out.  After this happens, no sound will play on either WinAmp or the internet.  On WinAmp, in addition to no sound, the song TICKER will play to the 2-second mark and then mysteriously stop.  For this reason, I don't believe it has anything to do with speakers.. however, device manager claims that the soundcard is without error!  ScanDisk and Defragmentation of my drives have done no good either!  Please help if at all possible..

But please, I realize I have a VERY basic computer.. PATHETIC even.  So of course, I know it's wise to update, and I plan to eventually.  Unfortunately, lack of funds are preventing me from being able to do this any time soon.  This system was given to me free and was practically untouched when I got it; it's nothing special, but it does provide me w/ music when I need it.  Anyways, thank you if you read all of this and I hope that perhaps there is something I can do.Providence,If you already know the precise model and version of your sound card go to the website of the manufacturer of it and download the drivers for the win98 o/s. If you can identify the current software associated with the sound card located within your add/remove programs delete them 1st before installing the ONES you find on the web site. Do not uninstall them until you find the drivers. It APPEARS that your current sound card is an integrated one and thus another alternative is to purchase a PCI sound card (very inexpensive) and install it in the computer in any available PCI slot and then install the drivers for it and you should be away to the races. I would try the 1st 1st. goodluck and keep us informed.
P.S. I am still operating a number of computers with win98SE as you are for minimal resource things and have no intention to give them up (yet). truenorth