Well if the bars are moving then you are in the correct place and should be hearing something.
There are three ways to measure where you are at (tape counter) ABS absolute, MTC Midi time code and Bar/beat
When you set up the VR you choose...
I suspect the problem is in the Tascam....Digital Boards
are layered and not easy to see. There's usually a button that changes from the function of the faders...
and also there's usually a menu for routing the signal...
It is very easy to get lost in that....not like old analog boards where everything is in front of you and visable.
I'm not familar with the Tascam board. But I suspect there's a button someplace that's not pushed.
See if you can configure the board to montitor the return
from the VR in the meters....
Good Luck
Terry