ESS Technology ES1938S Solo-1 ISA 16-bit Sound Card — SB-Link — Sound Blaster Pro Compatible — DOS/Retro

A genuine ESS Technology ES1938S Solo-1 ISA sound card, removed from a working system when decommissioned. The ES1938S was one of the last and most capable ISA audio controllers produced, featuring the highly sought after SB-Link header for direct motherboard connection — essential for proper DOS game compatibility on late 1990s systems with Intel TX/BX chipset motherboards.

Specifications:

• Brand: ESS Technology
• Chipset: ES1938S Solo-1
• Bus: ISA 16-bit
• Compatibility: Sound Blaster Pro / Windows Sound System
• Audio Amplifier: 2x UTC LM386
• SB-Link: Yes — on-board header for motherboard DOS compatibility
• Ports: Speaker Out, Line Out, Line In, Mic In (all 3.5mm) plus 15-pin Gameport/MIDI
• Compact form factor — suitable for smaller cases
• FCC ID: SC1938
• Manufactured: China

Why the SB-Link matters: On late 1990s PCs with Intel TX/BX chipset motherboards, connecting the SB-Link header enables proper DOS Sound Blaster compatibility for games — without it some systems suffer audio issues in DOS. A must-have feature for serious DOS retro builders.

Perfect for:

• DOS retro builds with Intel TX/BX chipset motherboards
• Windows 95/98 era PC restoration
• Anyone needing proper Sound Blaster Pro compatibility
• Vintage computing collectors

Removed from a working system — untested, sold as seen, no returns. Please verify ISA slot availability before purchasing.