Switch sounds in Preset mode

By Landon McCoy · Updated October 3, 2026

Preset mode switches complete sounds from the presets stored on Stratus, without keeping the app open.

Software preview · September 2026. This guide includes the latest app and firmware workflow. Recent changes are not yet verified as available in every public release. If your controls differ, use the update available to you; do not install development firmware just to match this guide.

Prepare your sounds

  1. Save the presets you want in the app and put them in the desired order.
  2. Connect Stratus and sync the list to its onboard storage.
  3. Select Preset mode from Settings in the latest app, or send MIDI CC18 value 2.
Select a pair. Switch its sounds.. Sync first: Put your preset list on Stratus. Multiknob: Turn or click to select a preset pair. Footswitch: Switch between the two sounds in that pair. Software preview · Preset mode: select in the app, or send CC18 value 2.
Software preview · Preset mode: select in the app, or send CC18 value 2. Open image at full size.

Use the controls

Turn or click the Multiknob to move between preset pairs. Tap the footswitch to switch between the two sounds in the selected pair. The onboard pair navigation provides seven pairs, or fourteen positions; MIDI recalls presets from the synced list by Program Change number.

Before a performance

Test every sound and its level after syncing. A preset can refer to files that still need installation. If Preset mode is unavailable, check that the hardware has a preset list. See preset sync.

Read the preset colors

The first fourteen onboard positions form seven pairs. In order, the pair colors are blue, green, yellow, orange, red, pink, and purple. The first sound in each pair is shown brighter; the second is dimmer. Tap the footswitch to hear the other sound in that pair. The first pair corresponds to MIDI Program Change 0 and 1, the next to 2 and 3, and so on. Program Change numbering on a controller display may start at 1; see the MIDI guide before assigning switches.

The app’s preset list uses these colors to help you match sounds to the pedal. Re-sync after changing the list and check both positions in each pair. If you have an odd number of presets, test the last pair before a performance rather than relying on an empty position as a particular sound.

Watch this task

From the Full Uncut Stratus Tutorial, recorded October 2, 2026. App screens and available controls can vary by version.

More visual references
Top view of Stratus with LED strip above the Multiknob and footswitch below.
Hardware reference: LED strip, Multiknob, and footswitch. Their functions depend on the selected mode. Open image at full size.
Still need a hand?

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

Related articles

Start here: get your first sound from StratusConnect your guitar, power Stratus, and check a basic sound before building your first effects chain.Stratus hardware and connectionsStratus has mono instrument input and output, a Multiknob, a footswitch, an LED strip, a 9V power input, and USB-C.Power Stratus and prevent power noiseUse a center-negative 9V DC supply rated for at least 400mA. An isolated power output is recommended.Use headphones or record directly with StratusConnect Stratus OUT to an audio interface, mixer, or headphone amplifier. Stratus does not have a dedicated headphone output.Update Stratus firmwareUse the official Stratus Update Tool and a USB data cable. Keep Stratus connected and powered until the tool confirms completion.