'Ran the VST Plugin scan'
To clarify reset, then rescan.

AUD.INI should be in a users appdata folder somewhere.

... Others giving excellent comments...

Thanks.

robert_e_bone
Some background process?  Some antivirus software interferes with Sonar - some folks change settings in antivirus to exclude Sonar paths/pieces, and some temporarily suspend antivirus when running Sonar.  Also, possible problems from Wi-Fi adapters, if present.  (If W-Fi adapter is present, try turning it off or going into Windows Device Manager and disabling it, just prior to launching Sonar, and enabling it after completing the Sonar session).
 
Bob Bone
 

Thanks, I disabled the LAN (then ran a full scan) and disabled all malware detection.  But no change. I will continue the disabling as I try other solutions in case there are multiple causes.

Hello,
 
Please check out this forum link it could be of great help.
Possible Key to SONAR Performance Breakthrough? Check this Out!
 
Also check to see if you have any of ASUS utilities running and test by disengaging them (Asus AI) comes to mind.
Finally, look for any bluetooth services or applications that may be running and also disable/uninstall.  IHTH

bobanon
 
I've put the project files on an SSD and when recording I show a disk load ranging from .08 to .12
 

I have an older SSD and is the only "flaky" part of my system for complex writes (e.g. unzipping X3's installation files on it is a guaranteed BSOD for me). SSDs excel at reading, but not writing, so I have deliberately taken mine "out of the loop" for project work and never had issues. I am not sure if this applies to your specific situation, but wanted to throw it out as an "honorable mention."
 
Another thing you may want to check quickly is the I/O cache in SONAR (Preferences->Audio->(Advance mode at the bottom checked) Sync and Caching). I have found that 512KB (for both Playback and Record I/O Buffer Size) has been the happy medium for most work I have done for my system (too excessive either end can cause pops/clicks or audio engine crashes).

scook
may offer some clue

Thanks, It shows serious problems. I'll be researching how to address these later today. Again much thanks.

LunaTech
Hello,
 
Please check out this forum link it could be of great help.

 
Also check to see if you have any of ASUS utilities running and test by disengaging them (Asus AI) comes to mind.
Finally, look for any bluetooth services or applications that may be running and also disable/uninstall.  IHTH

Thanks, had already disabled RealTec but will disable ASUS AI.

LunaTech
Hello,
...
Also check to see if you have any of ASUS utilities running and test by disengaging them (Asus AI) comes to mind.
...

Thanks again, uninstalling the AI suit removed most the problems shown by LatencyMon.

bobanon
Thanks again, uninstalling the AI suit removed most the problems shown by LatencyMon.

Glad to hear this.  I was searching the net earlier this morning and came across this exact recommendation.
Was just about to post it to this thread.
 

Just a final note of thanks for all the help.
 
Bob

Excellent news... Time to make a backup! :)
 
cheers...