Hello there. I'm using one Master (Mac Pro, 22.12.0.326) and one Slave VEP7 server (iMacPro). I've had those issues with 10G networks and cards. How I resolved my connection problems: Spoiler: I had more problems trying to bypass the router. If you have something like a simple Netgear GS105 (unmanaged gigabit switch) lying around, use that and connect your computers that way.
Set the network to (Auto, first for discovery): iPv4: DHCP. Speed: 1000baseT, Full Duplex. MTU: standard (1500). IPv6: Auto or Link Local Only. AVB mode: Yes. Try to use plain old ethernet with gigabit ethernet cables. Throttle any 5G or 10G ethernet gear down to 1 gigabit speeds.
I removed Little Snitch and I don't run any "Mac Optimizer" apps because they cause problems with Pro Tools and VSL. Turn off your VPN. (Mullvad VPN allows Local Network Sharing, so that one works fine for my setup, even with Pro Tools). If you have more than one ethernet port, dedicate the Intel Gigabit port (En0) to your VSL connections.
In Pro Tools or Logic I use a DAW buffer of 128, a VSL instance buffer of 1, and I get great results and a playable system. Good luck and let me know how it goes.
FWIW, I connect to the slave VSL machine via Screen Sharing. This works from Mojave through Ventura.
Originally Posted by: SegalMusic 
Bump ? Or bummer
I am fine-tuning a similar set-up.
Using Macpros, one master and two slaves.
I did a first config with a 'high speed' Router, and I am trying now without a router.
Has anyone set up one master and 2 slaves without a router, with a direct "LAN network".
Would this have any clear advantages?
Any tips appreciated.