Then let’s try something else:
Stop Dorico from running and go to the Windows Sound Settings as outline in this thread. Only difference, choose the Realtek device and then follow the way to the advanced settings. There where the options for exlusive access are is also the option for the default format. Choose 44.1 kHz / 16Bit, apply and close. When you then start Dorico, does it come with 44.1 kHz. If yes, then you should be able to switch over to the AirPods.