I have had this bit distortion that sounds like an escalating bitcrusher that ends with no sound at all.
This when using Cubase 9.5 and vsti’s.
It also happens when using stand alone vsti’s.
It never ever happens using any other program like iTunes, VLC and such.
I use 2 RME PCI sound cards that connects to my Digiface and Multiface.
The sound comes back when switching buffer rate but the problem reoccur after a few minutes.
Yes, I use the latest drivers and have Windows 7.
Cheers