The first problem is that the sound worked the first time I fired it up, but won't work after exiting and getting back into the game...I've tried re-booting the computer and re-loading both game and patch...same thing happened.
I'm guessing your OS is Win XP. If so, go to Reb Rens site and download the patch "sound on"
http://www.xs4all.nl/~rensg/red_baron_utilities.htm
The second problem is my Microsoft Sidewinder joystick with USB plug (which is all I can use on my Dell) won't even work in the game.
Can't help you directly here. I've always used Logitech Digital Joysticks (currently Extreme Digital 3D) with no problem. However, if you post at the Delphi SWISSA board,
http://forums.delphiforums.com/swwisa/start
or
http://forums.delphiforums.com/flight/start
someone will be sure to help you. I expect your question re the Sidewinder has been answered before, just check the archived threads. Or just pose the question, someone will have the answer.
cheers,
shredward