[Darryl Ramm]

Yep move all .aaxplugin files out of the plugin folder. Leave them out until the problem is found/solved. Pauses/hangs while saving a project can especially be plugins.

Trash prefs (should have already done that). Use the Trasher app if not perfectly sure what to do.

Try with a new empty session, not a copy of an existing session, not from a template.

Make sure no other apps are running.

Is the Windows system fully optimized? Every last thing? Yes even if it worked fine before. Make sure crapware including antivirus software is fully disabled or better uninstalled.

Windows event log may give clues.
Pro Tools log may give clues.

You can google for info on both.

Post a SiSoft Sandra report, which you should already have done... see "Help Us help You" up the top of each DUC web page.