I can't activate the audio outputs in vst connections

Cubase 7, macbook OS9 mavericks, 2.3 Ghz i7. Just upgraded from Cubase 5 to Cubase 7.

When I go to VST connections “outputs”, it says “not connected”. I click on this, and the option to click “built-in audio” is there. I click it, and nothing happens. Audio device still says “not connected”. (Oddly enough, vst inputs is using my built-in input so that seems to be fine).

Audio is registering on the meters - when I press play I see audio.

I tried to connect using my apogee Quartet, also to no avail. Only difference is with the Quartet, I can select it under VST outputs, but once it is selected, I get a horrible loud hissing sound.

I have also just installed Ableton Live and Pro Tools - both of which work fine with the built-in audio, and with my Quartet. Which leads me to believe this is a Cubase 7 issue. A very frustrating one - especially considering that my other DAWs are running just fine.

Any help with this would be hugely appreciated! Thank you! :frowning: