Same explicit dependency with the xfce4-pulseaudio-plugin package.
I'm now much closer to giving pipewire a try.
The f33 xfce4-pulseaudio-plugin package from updates-testing can now work with pipewire and so far so good. I'm of course lacking the features I was using with paprefs, but will try to find in the pipewire docs whether the same can be achieved with pipewire-specific tooling.
My main case was the "simultaneous output devices" to not have to do anything when I switch between bluetooth devices (plural) or physical jack output.
Not sure when I'll get a chance to try Ardour, I haven't used it in months.
Cheers