How many effects can I run? Understanding CPU

By Landon McCoy · Updated September 10, 2026

The number of simultaneous effects depends on their processing cost. Use the app’s CPU indicator and overload messages instead of a fixed effect count.

Applies to: Stratus and Nimbus.

If an effect will not fit

  1. Look for a CPU Overload message in the app.
  2. Remove an effect you do not need, or choose a simpler alternative.
  3. Check the chain again after the change and leave room for reliable playback.
Stored files and running effects differ. Storage: How many files the device can hold. Processing: How much work the active chain needs. App feedback: Check CPU limits for the complete chain. There is no universal effect count. Choose lighter effects if the chain will not fit.
There is no universal effect count. Choose lighter effects if the chain will not fit. Open image at full size.

NAM improvements in the latest software

Preview: Recent firmware optimization and app updates remove the old one-NAM restriction and have validated three A2-Lite NAM blocks on Stratus. The same software features apply to Nimbus. This is not a guarantee that three NAMs plus any other effects will fit; the full chain still has to pass the CPU budget.

Why old percentages are misleading

Firmware changes can alter processing cost. The app’s budget estimates and measured hardware load are not interchangeable. Earlier fixed NAM/IR percentages in this Help Center have been removed; use the connected device’s current feedback.

Storage is different

The number of files you can store is separate from how many effects can run at once. An IR library is not limited to ten slots in the latest workflow; available device storage still matters.

Still need a hand?

Email support@chaosaudio.com. We’re here to help.

Related articles

Choose an effects orderThe virtual signal chain runs from left to right. Start with a simple chain, then change one position at a time and listen.Use NAM amp and pedal modelsNAM models reproduce a captured amp or pedal response. Stratus and Nimbus share the same native NAM playback features.Use cabinet impulse responses (IRs)A cabinet IR adds the frequency and time response of a captured speaker-and-microphone setup. Use it after an amp model for a typical direct guitar chain.Upload your own NAM models and IR filesUse USE MY OWN to add compatible NAM models or WAV impulse responses to your private Chaos Audio library.Connect TONE3000 and find compatible capturesTONE3000 lets you browse community NAM captures and IRs from the Chaos Audio app. Choose compatible files and read the creator’s notes.