Yes, the MOTU Audio Express is an external device. And like you is the default for all system audio. An exception is that I set BIAB to default to MME with the MOTU. I save ASIO for my recording in REAPER.

It is a magical dance of audio configurations and setup that generally keeps the whole music system running smoothly. However, once in while things go astray.

Thanks for the input. I have my eye on thinks now.

BIAB – 2025, Reaper (current), i7-12700F Processor, 32GB DDR4-3200MHz RAM, 1TB WD Black NVMe SSD, 2TB WDC Blue SSD, 1TB WD Blue, 2 TB SK NVMe, 6 TB External, Motu Audio Express 6x6