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Stratus User Manual

The complete guide to getting Stratus set up for jamming 🎸
29 articles

Getting Started

Watch the complete Getting Started video! ✨🎸 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dlYTNyqGX_A This video covers everything you need to know about Stratus, including the latest features like Tuner Mode, AI FX Builder, and mode switching from the app. What's in the Box - Stratus pedal - USB-C cable - Rubber feet - Stickers and documentation Before You Start 1. Download the Chaos Audio app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store - Also available on iPad, macOS, and Android tablets with native layouts! 2. Update Stratus firmware using the Stratus Update Tool for the best experience and access to all features 3. Create a free Chaos Audio account in the app to access all features and enable automatic preset backup App Overview: 3-Tab Layout The Chaos Audio app uses a simple 3-tab layout: | Tab | What It Does | |-----|--------------| | Pedalboard | Build and edit your effects chain, add effects, adjust knobs | | Presets | Browse saved presets, access cloud-synced presets, sync to Stratus | | Settings | Configure modes, MIDI, Bluetooth, and app preferences | Key change: The old Tone Shop and Library tabs are now combined — tap "Add Effect" on the Pedalboard to browse all available effects (owned and purchasable). New Features Overview 🎸 NAM Amp Models (NEW!) Neural Amp Modeler (NAM A2) brings studio-quality amp captures to Stratus: - More accurate than ToneX, Line 6, and Quad Cortex in blind tests - 300,000+ free captures via TONE3000 partnership - Uses ~52.5% CPU — pair with an IR for a complete amp rig 🔊 Impulse Responses (NEW!) Cabinet simulation via IR files: - Uses ~19.4% CPU - TONE3000 integration for thousands of free IRs - Mix and Output controls for blending 📤 Upload Your Own NAMs & IRs (NEW!) Bring your own .nam and .wav files from your computer: - Tap "USE MY OWN" in the NAM or IR categories - Upload from local files - Synced to your Chaos Audio account ☁️ Automatic Preset Backup (NEW!) Your presets now automatically back up to the cloud: - Never lose your presets again - Sync across all your devices - Works automatically when signed in 🎚️ Drag & Drop Reordering (NEW!) Rearrange your effects chain by: - Dragging effects directly on the Pedalboard - Dragging the colored "chips" at the top of the screen Key Features - Preset Mode — 7 slots × 2 presets = 14 sounds at your feet - Stompbox Mode — Toggle individual effects on/off - Looper Mode — 5-minute looper with overdub - Tuner Mode — Built-in chromatic tuner with mute (shows enhanced tuner in app when connected!) - AI FX Builder — Create custom effects with text prompts (115 free builds included) - Mode switching from app — Change modes via Settings on your phone Quick Links - Powering Stratus - Stratus Hardware Overview - Connecting to Stratus - MIDI Control Guide - NAM Amp Models - Impulse Responses Nimbus Users All features described here also apply to Nimbus! The Chaos Audio app works with both Stratus and Nimbus pedals. If you have any questions, feel free to email us at support@chaosaudio.com

Last updated on Jul 01, 2026

• Supported mobile devices

The Chaos Audio app works with Apple iOS devices, Android devices, iPads, macOS computers, and Android tablets — all with native, optimized layouts! Platform Support 📱 iPhone - iPhone 8 or higher (required) - iOS 16 or higher 📱 Android Phones - Android 10 or higher (required) - At least 3GB RAM - At least a quad-core CPU 📲 iPad (NEW!) - iPad with iPadOS 16 or higher - Optimized tablet layout — no more stretched phone UI! - Take advantage of the larger screen for better effect management 💻 macOS (NEW!) - macOS 12.0 (Monterey) or higher - Native Mac app with proper desktop layout - Download from the Mac App Store 📲 Android Tablets (NEW!) - Android 10 or higher - At least 4GB RAM recommended for tablets - Optimized tablet layout for larger screens What's New: Proper Tablet & Desktop Apps Previously, the Chaos Audio app was optimized for smartphones only, and tablet/desktop users got a stretched phone layout. Now we have native layouts for: - ✅ iPad - ✅ macOS - ✅ Android tablets These native layouts take advantage of the larger screen real estate, making it easier to: - See your full effects chain at once - Manage presets in a grid view - Adjust parameters with more precision Download the App - iOS/iPad/macOS: Apple App Store - Android: Google Play Store Recommended Devices For the best experience, we recommend using a device from the last 4 years. Newer devices will have: - Faster Bluetooth connections - Smoother UI performance - Better battery life during long sessions Need Help? If you have any questions, email us at support@chaosaudio.com

Last updated on Jul 01, 2026

• Multiknob functions

Stratus has four modes: Preset Mode (Default) In this mode, the Multiknob is used as a "preset pair selector". Clicking the Multiknob will select the next preset pair to the right of the currently selected preset pair, and turning the Multiknob allows for more precise preset pair selection. Pressing and holding the Multiknob alternates between Stompbox Mode and Preset Mode. Stratus ships in Preset Mode by default with 14 factory presets across 7 slots. Stompbox Mode In this mode, the Multiknob is used as an "effect selector". Clicking the Multiknob will select the next effect to the right of the currently selected effect in your chain, and turning the Multiknob allows for more precise effect selection. Pressing and holding the Multiknob alternates between Stompbox Mode and Preset Mode. Note that the looper and volume control functions are not available while in Stompbox Mode. Looper Mode In this mode, the Multiknob is used as a master output volume control and Looper switch. When the looper is disengaged, turning the Multiknob will adjust Stratus' output volume. While looping, turning the Multiknob will adjust the volume level of your loop rather than the output volume. To enter Looper Mode, press and hold the silver stomp switch for about 3 seconds from either Preset Mode or Stompbox Mode. Tuner Mode (NEW!) To activate the tuner, press and hold both the Multiknob and the silver stomp switch simultaneously for about 3 seconds. The tuner uses 440Hz A standard tuning and auto-detects which string you're playing. The LEDs indicate your tuning: - Center LED green = In tune - Left side (red/orange/yellow) = Flat (tune up) - Right side (red/orange/yellow) = Sharp (tune down) Important: Tuner Mode also mutes your audio output, making it a quick way to mute if needed. Press and hold both switches again to exit Tuner Mode. Switching Modes You can also change Stratus' mode directly from the Chaos Audio mobile app under Settings > Stratus Mode. This requires the latest firmware update.

Last updated on Jul 01, 2026

• Updating Stratus' firmware

To update Stratus' firmware, download the Stratus Update Tool located at chaosaudio.com/pages/stratus-update-tool-app Update Instructions 1. Connect your Stratus to your computer via USB-C. 2. Wait for Stratus to fully boot. 3. Run Stratus Update Tool as described below for your operating system. 4. Click "Check for updates". 5. Click "Connect the Pedal". 6. Click "Update". 7. Stratus will flash red and yellow upon successful update. Do not unplug Stratus until the Stratus Update Tool indicates that the update is 100% complete. Download Instructions Windows 1. Download the Windows application 2. Follow the prompts in the Microsoft Store for easy installation 3. Launch the update tool from your Microsoft Store Library Fixed: Previous issue where the download would get stuck at "Downloading..." has been resolved in the latest version. Mac 1. Download the Mac application 2. Follow the prompts in the App Store for easy installation 3. Launch the update tool from Launchpad (or how you normally would for any other Mac application) NEW: Now supports macOS 12.0 (Monterey) and higher! Previously required macOS 15.0+, but we've expanded compatibility so more Mac users can update their Stratus. Troubleshooting If you're having problems updating your Stratus, try the following steps: 1. Try a different USB-C cable — Some cables are charge-only and don't support data transfer 2. Relaunch the app — Close Stratus Update Tool completely, unplug and re-plug your Stratus, then reopen the app 3. Restart your computer — A fresh restart can resolve connection issues 4. Try a different internet connection — If downloads are failing, switch Wi-Fi networks or try a wired connection 5. Check for virtual machines — If you're getting a "Failed to connect the pedal" error, make sure you're not running a virtual machine (like Parallels for Mac) that might be intercepting the USB connection 6. Windows: Re-download from Microsoft Store — If you previously had the "Downloading..." stuck issue, uninstall and re-download the latest version from the Microsoft Store Need Help? If you have any other questions please email us at support@chaosaudio.com

Last updated on Jul 01, 2026

• Browsing & Adding Effects

The Add Effect browser is where you find and add effects to your Pedalboard. Access it by tapping the + (Add Effect) button on the Pedalboard page. How to Browse Effects 1. Go to the Pedalboard tab 2. Tap the "+" (Add Effect) button 3. Browse by category or search for specific effects You'll see both: - Effects you own — Ready to add immediately - Effects available to purchase — Browse details and buy Effect Categories - Overdrive/Distortion — Drives, fuzzes, and distortion - Delay — Digital, analog, and tape-style delays - Reverb — Rooms, halls, plates, shimmer - Modulation — Chorus, flanger, phaser, tremolo - Compressor/EQ — Dynamics and tone shaping - NAM Amp Models (NEW!) — 300k+ free amp captures via TONE3000 - Impulse Responses (NEW!) — Cabinet simulations - My Created Effects — Your AI-generated effects Getting an Effect 1. Tap on any effect to view its details 2. Tap "Get" to add it to your library 3. While connected to Stratus, tap "Install" to transfer it IMPORTANT: You must tap "Install" while connected to Stratus before the effect will make sound! Cross-Platform Plugins Many effects are cross-platform between Stratus, Mac, and PC (AAX, VST3, AU). Buy once, use everywhere — whether you're in the studio or on stage. NAM & IR Integration The NAM Amp Models and Impulse Responses categories connect to TONE3000, giving you access to 300,000+ free captures: - Create a free TONE3000 account - Browse directly in the app - Downloaded models save to your Chaos Audio account You can also upload your own .nam and .wav files via the "Use My Own" button. Need Help? If you have any questions, email us at support@chaosaudio.com

Last updated on Jul 01, 2026

• Presets Tab

The Presets tab is where you manage your saved presets — both local presets and cloud-synced presets from the Chaos Audio community. Accessing the Presets Tab Tap Presets in the bottom navigation bar. At the top of the screen, you'll see two toggles: - Presets — Your locally saved presets - Cloud — Community presets shared by other users (formerly Chaos Cloud) Your Local Presets The Presets view shows all presets saved to your account: - Color-coded — Each preset has a color matching its Stratus preset slot - MIDI PC numbers — The number next to each preset is its MIDI Program Change number - Drag to reorder — Touch and drag presets to change their order - Swipe to delete — Swipe left on any preset to remove it ☁️ Automatic Cloud Backup (NEW!) Your presets now automatically back up to your Chaos Audio account! This means: - ✅ Presets sync across all your devices - ✅ Never lose presets if you uninstall the app - ✅ Sign in on a new device and your presets are there No action needed — backup happens automatically when signed in. Import & Export You can still manually import and export presets: - Export — Save selected presets as a file to share or backup - Import — Load presets from files (backups, downloads, shared presets) Syncing to Stratus Tap "Sync with Stratus" to download your presets to Stratus' local storage. This is required for: - Preset Mode — Using the 7 slots × 2 presets on the pedal - MIDI control — Triggering presets via MIDI Program Change Note: You must re-sync whenever you add, remove, or reorder presets. Cloud Presets (Community) Tap "Cloud" at the top to browse community-created presets: - Browse presets shared by other users - See which effects each preset uses - Download and add to your library - Rate and review presets Share your own: Create a great preset? Upload it to Cloud for others to enjoy! Quick Access from Pedalboard You can also load presets directly from the Pedalboard page: 1. Tap the ellipsis (...) menu in the top right 2. Select "Load Preset" Need Help? If you have any questions, email us at support@chaosaudio.com

Last updated on Jul 01, 2026

• Pedalboard page

The Pedalboard is your main workspace — it's where you build, tweak, and manage your effects chain. The app uses a simple 3-tab layout: Pedalboard, Presets, and Settings. Understanding the 3-Tab Layout The Chaos Audio app is organized into three main tabs at the bottom of your screen: - Pedalboard — Build and edit your effects chain (you are here!) - Presets — Browse and manage your saved presets, including cloud-synced presets - Settings — Configure Stratus modes, MIDI, and app preferences Adding Effects to Your Chain Tap the "Add Effect" button (+ icon) to browse available effects. This opens the effect browser where you can see: - Effects you own — Ready to add immediately - Effects available for purchase — Browse the full catalog and try before you buy Effect Categories include: - Overdrive/Distortion - Delay - Reverb - Modulation - Compressor/EQ - NAM Amp Models (NEW!) — High-fidelity amp captures - Impulse Responses (NEW!) — Cabinet simulations - AI-Created Effects Adjusting Effect Parameters Tap on any effect to open its exploded view where you can adjust parameters. How knobs work: Touch any knob and drag up/down to adjust the value. This gives you more precise control than circular motion. Tap the stomp switch on any effect to toggle it on/off. Tap "CLOSE" to return to the full pedalboard view. Drag & Drop Reordering NEW! You can now reorder effects in two ways: Method 1: Drag Effects Directly Touch and hold an effect on your pedalboard, then drag it left or right to reposition it in your chain. Method 2: Use the Colored Chips At the top of the Pedalboard screen, you'll see colored "chips" representing each effect in your chain (e.g., "Drive 1 → Compressor → NAM Model → Reverb"). Drag these chips to quickly reorder your signal chain without scrolling through the full pedalboard. Signal Flow: Your chain always flows left to right (→). Effect order matters — try putting your overdrive before or after delay to hear the difference! CPU Usage Stratus has a dynamic effects limit based on CPU usage. The CPU meter at the top shows how much processing power your chain is using. If the CPU limit is reached, you'll see a warning when trying to add more effects. Either: - Remove an effect (swipe left to delete) - Try a less CPU-intensive effect Tip: NAM Amp Models use ~52.5% CPU, while Impulse Responses use ~19.4% CPU. Plan your chain accordingly! Saving Your Pedalboard Tap the ellipses (...) in the top right corner to access the Pedalboard menu: - Save as preset — Save your current chain as a new preset - Load preset — Load an existing preset - Clear pedalboard — Remove all effects Quick save: Tap the preset name at the bottom of the screen. When changes are saved, the asterisk (*) disappears and the background changes from gradient to gray. Need Help? If you have any questions, email us at support@chaosaudio.com

Last updated on Jul 01, 2026

• Stratus Modes

Stratus has three different control modes, and will remember the last-used mode every time it boots up: 1. Looper Mode In Looper Mode, Stratus' foot switch toggles the entire effects chain on or off. Turning the Multiknob adjusts the master volume, and pressing the Multiknob controls the Looper. This is the mode that Stratus arrives in out-of-the-box. 2. Live Control Live Control is the hands-free way to control Stratus, enabling access to locally-stored presets or individual FX-toggling within each preset. Pressing and holding the Multiknob for 3 seconds while in Live Control will swap between Stompbox Mode and Preset Mode. - Stompbox Mode In Stompbox Control, Stratus' foot switch toggles individual effects on or off. Turning or pressing the Multiknob selects a different effect, and the LEDs indicate the status of all effects in your effects chain. One or more effects must be loaded into your chain to enable Live Mode. - Preset Mode In Preset Control, Stratus' foot switch toggles between 2 presets in up to 7 preset pairs, for instant access to up to 14 presets. Turning or pressing the Multiknob selects a different preset pair, and the LEDs indicate the status of which preset pair, and which preset within that pair, is engaged. Preset pairs are color coded with the 7 LEDs and are the first 14 presets you create in the Chaos Audio app. You must sync your presets from the app in order to access presets locally stored on Stratus, but the app is not required after syncing. To swap between Looper Mode and Live Control Modes, simply press and hold Stratus' foot switch for 3 seconds. The LEDs will indicate that the current mode has changed. To swap between Stompbox Mode and Preset Mode (within Live Control), simply press and hold Stratus' Multiknob for 3 seconds. The LEDs will indicate that the current control mode has changed. NOTE: One or more effects must be loaded into your chain to enable Stompbox Mode. Stratus will remember the last mode that was selected and automatically boot into that mode the next time it is used.

Last updated on Aug 19, 2025

• Using Live Mode

Live Mode is the hands-free way to control individual effects, without the need for a MIDI controller. 1. To enter Live Mode, simply add one or more effects to your chain, then press and hold Stratus' foot switch for 3 seconds. By default, it will launch in Stompbox Control. If you do not have any effects in your chain, Live Mode will automatically enter Preset Control. STOMPBOX CONTROL Video Demonstration - Click Here 2. Once in Live Mode (Stompbox Control), tap the foot switch to toggle specific effects ON or OFF. Press or turn the Multiknob to select a different effect. 3. Use the Chaos Audio mobile app to keep track of which effect is selected. - When connected to the mobile app, the app will display the popup for the effect that is currently selected, and will also display the ON/OFF state for the effect in the app in real time. 4. Use Stratus' LEDs to get a quick glance at your position and which effects are enabled. - "WHITE" indicates an effect in that slot that is OFF and NOT SELECTED. - "BLUE" indicates an effect in that slot that is ON and NOT SELECTED. - "DIM PINK" indicates an effect in that slot that is OFF and SELECTED. - "BRIGHT PINK" indicates an effect in that slot that is ON and SELECTED. 5. You can control up to seven effects at a time, all within a single effects chain, when using Stompbox Control. PRESET CONTROL Video Demonstration - Click Here 6. To enter Preset Control while in Live Mode, press and hold Stratus' Multiknob switch for 3 seconds. Pressing and holding the Multiknob will swap back and forth between Stompbox Control and Preset Control when Live Mode is enabled. 7. Once in Preset Control, tap the foot switch to toggle between the 2 presets in your first preset pair. Press or turn the Multiknob to select a different preset pair. 8. Use Stratus' LEDs to get a quick glance at which preset pair is selected and which preset in that pair is enabled. Bright colors indicate the first preset in the pair, dim colors indicate the second preset in the pair. - "WHITE" indicates a preset pair in that slot that is OFF and NOT SELECTED. - "BLUE" indicates preset pair 1 (presets #0 and #1 in the app) - "GREEN" indicates preset pair 2 (presets #2 and #3 in the app) - "YELLOW" indicates preset pair 3 (presets #4 and #5 in the app) - "ORANGE" indicates preset pair 4 (presets #6 and #7 in the app) - "RED" indicates preset pair 5 (presets #8 and #9 in the app) - "PURPLE" indicates preset pair 6 (presets #10 and #11 in the app) - "PINK" indicates preset pair 7 (presets #12 and #13 in the app) All audio processing and effects control is done locally on Stratus, so if your phone dies or disconnects, you're still covered.

Last updated on May 19, 2025

• Tuner Mode

Stratus includes a built-in chromatic tuner that auto-detects strings and mutes your audio while tuning. Activating Tuner Mode Press and hold both the Multiknob and the silver stomp switch simultaneously for about 3 seconds. The LEDs will change to show the tuner interface. How to Read the Hardware Tuner The tuner uses 440Hz A standard tuning and automatically detects which string you're playing: - Center LED (green) = You're in tune! ✓ - LEDs on the left (red/orange/yellow) = You're flat — tune UP - LEDs on the right (red/orange/yellow) = You're sharp — tune DOWN The further the lit LED is from center, the more out of tune you are. Enhanced App Tuner (NEW!) When Stratus's Tuner Mode is active AND your phone is connected, an enhanced chromatic tuner appears in the app! This app-based tuner provides: - More accurate readout — See exact cents sharp/flat - Real-time visual feedback — Large, easy-to-read display - Note detection — Shows the detected note name The tuner automatically appears in the app when you activate Tuner Mode on Stratus, and disappears when you exit Tuner Mode. No extra steps needed! Tip: The app tuner is especially useful in bright outdoor conditions where Stratus's LEDs might be harder to see. Quick Mute Feature Tuner Mode automatically mutes your audio output. This makes it useful as a quick mute switch if you need to silence your signal between songs. Exiting Tuner Mode Press and hold both the Multiknob and silver stomp switch again for about 3 seconds. You'll return to whichever mode you were in before (Preset Mode, Stompbox Mode, or Looper Mode). Firmware Requirement Make sure your Stratus firmware is updated to the latest version to access Tuner Mode and the enhanced app tuner. Use the Stratus Update Tool for Mac or Windows. Need Help? If you have any questions, email us at support@chaosaudio.com

Last updated on Jul 01, 2026

• Preset Mode

Preset Mode is Stratus's default mode and the easiest way to switch between sounds live without needing the mobile app. How Preset Mode Works Stratus has 7 preset slots, and each slot stores 2 presets — giving you up to 14 presets total accessible with your feet. The 7 LEDs at the top of Stratus represent each slot: - Bright color = First preset in that slot (Preset A) - Dim color = Second preset in that slot (Preset B) Switching Between Presets - Tap the silver stomp switch to toggle between the two presets (A/B) in the current slot - Click the Multiknob to move to the next slot - Turn the Multiknob for precise slot selection Color-Coded Slots Each of the 7 slots has a unique color (blue, green, cyan, etc.) making it easy to see which preset pair you're on. The colors match what you see in the mobile app's preset library. Factory Presets Out of the box, Stratus comes with 14 different presets loaded across the 7 slots so you can start playing immediately without opening the app. Loading Your Own Presets To replace the factory presets with your own: 1. Open the Chaos Audio app 2. Go to the Presets tab in your Library 3. Tap "Sync with Stratus" Your presets will download to Stratus over Bluetooth and be available in Preset Mode. Odd Number of Presets If you have an odd number of presets (like 3 or 5), the empty "B" slot will play a clean, unprocessed signal. Switching Modes - Press and hold the Multiknob (~3 sec) to switch to Stompbox Mode - Press and hold the silver stomp switch (~3 sec) to enter Looper Mode

Last updated on Jul 01, 2026

• Looper Mode

Looper Mode gives you a 5-minute looper with overdub capability, plus master volume control. Entering Looper Mode From either Preset Mode or Stompbox Mode, press and hold the silver stomp switch for about 3 seconds. In Looper Mode: - The silver stomp switch becomes a master on/off for your entire effect chain - The Multiknob controls the looper functions Looper Controls (Using the Multiknob) | Action | Function | |--------|----------| | Click once | Start recording (up to 5 minutes) | | Click again | Stop recording, start playback (green LED) | | Click while playing | Enter overdub mode (records on top of loop) | | Click in overdub | Return to normal playback | | Double-click | Pause the loop (preserves your recording) | | Double-click again | Resume playback | | Press and hold | Clear the loop entirely (red flash x3) | LED Indicators - Green = Loop is playing back normally - Red = Recording or overdubbing - Red flash (3x) = Loop has been cleared Volume Control When the looper is disengaged, turning the Multiknob adjusts Stratus's master output volume. While looping, it adjusts the loop playback volume instead. Master Effect Control In Looper Mode, the silver stomp switch acts as a master bypass for your entire effect chain. Tap it to turn all your effects on or off together — useful for switching between clean and processed tones without changing presets. Exiting Looper Mode Press and hold the silver stomp switch for about 3 seconds to return to the mode you were in before (Preset Mode or Stompbox Mode). Your loop will be cleared when you exit.

Last updated on Jul 01, 2026

• AI FX Builder

The AI FX Builder lets you create custom effects by describing what you want in plain text. Our AI system writes custom code to match your prompt — giving you truly unique, one-of-a-kind effects. Getting Started 1. Open the Chaos Audio app 2. Go to the Pedalboard tab 3. Tap the "Add Effect" button 4. Select "Create My Own Effect" or tap the ✨ star icon 5. Type a description of the effect you want 6. Tap Generate Effect Link Your TONE3000 Account (Recommended!) NEW! For better amp and drive-style prompts, we recommend linking your free TONE3000 account to the AI FX Builder. TONE3000 has 300,000+ free NAM amp captures that can inform the AI's understanding of amp tones. When your account is linked, prompts like "Marshall JCM800 style overdrive" or "Fender Twin clean" produce more accurate results. To link your account: 1. Go to build.chaosaudio.com 2. Sign in with your Chaos Audio account 3. Go to Profile Settings 4. Connect your TONE3000 account Free Builds Included Every Stratus owner gets 115 free AI effect builds included. You can see your remaining builds in the AI FX Builder screen. Writing Good Prompts Be as descriptive as you want! Examples: - "Simple delay with tap tempo feel" - "Warm analog-style overdrive with a tight low end" - "Shimmery reverb with octave-up trails" - "Aggressive fuzz with a gated decay" The AI will create custom parameters (up to 10 knobs) based on your description. Advanced Mode: View Generated Code NEW! Want to see the actual code the AI generates for your effects? 1. Go to build.chaosaudio.com 2. Sign in with your Chaos Audio account 3. Go to Profile Settings 4. Enable Advanced mode With Advanced mode enabled, you can view the generated Faust/DSP code for each effect you create. This is great for learning or making manual tweaks! Finding Your Created Effects After generation, your effect appears in the Add Effect browser under: My Created Effects Only YOU can see your created effects — they're private to your account. ⚠️ IMPORTANT: Installing to Stratus After creating an effect, you must install it to Stratus before it will make sound: 1. Tap "Get" to add it to your library 2. While connected to Stratus, tap "Install" 3. Wait for the Bluetooth transfer to complete If you skip this step and add the effect to your pedalboard, you won't hear any sound. The "Install" button will show as a purple/blue gradient if the effect isn't installed yet. Chaining AI Effects You can chain your AI-created effects with: - Other AI effects you've made - Pre-made Chaos Audio effects - Third-party plugins - NAM Amp Models (NEW!) - Impulse Responses (NEW!) Troubleshooting No sound from my AI effect? → Go to Add Effect → My Created Effects and tap "Install" while connected to Stratus. Want to iterate on a complex effect? → Use build.chaosaudio.com for more detailed prompt refinement and code viewing (enable Advanced mode). Amp/drive prompts not sounding right? → Link your TONE3000 account for better amp tone understanding. Need Help? If you have any questions, email us at support@chaosaudio.com

Last updated on Jul 01, 2026

• Installing Effects to Stratus

Effects must be installed to Stratus over Bluetooth before they'll make sound. This applies to all effects — pre-made plugins, AI-created effects, NAM models, IRs, and free downloads. Why Installation is Required When you tap "Get" on an effect, it's added to your app library. But the actual effect code needs to be transferred to Stratus via Bluetooth before it can run on the pedal. How to Install an Effect 1. Connect to Stratus via the Chaos Audio app 2. Go to Pedalboard → Add Effect 3. Find the effect (browse categories or check My Created Effects for AI effects) 4. If it shows "Install" (purple/blue gradient button), tap it 5. Wait for the Bluetooth transfer to complete 6. The button will change to "Installed" when done Checking Installation Status - "Install" button visible = Not yet on Stratus, needs installation - "Installed" label = Already on Stratus, ready to use Common Issue: No Sound from Effect If you add an effect to your pedalboard and hear no change to your sound: 1. Go to Pedalboard → Add Effect 2. Find the effect in its category 3. Check if it says "Install" or "Installed" 4. If it says "Install", tap it while connected to Stratus This is the #1 cause of "my effect isn't working" issues. NAM Models & IRs The same installation process applies to NAM Amp Models and Impulse Responses from TONE3000: 1. Browse and tap "Get" to add to your library 2. Tap "Install" while connected to Stratus 3. Wait for Bluetooth transfer For multi-model packs (NAM or IR packs with variants), switching between models in the dropdown will automatically install and load the new variant. Multiple Effects You can install multiple effects in one session. Just tap "Install" on each one you need. Effects remain installed on Stratus until you clear them manually or do a factory reset. Tip for Gigs Before a gig, double-check that all effects in your presets show "Installed" in the Add Effect browser. Nothing worse than silence when you stomp! Nimbus Users This same process applies to Nimbus — install effects over Bluetooth before using them. Need Help? If you have any questions, email us at support@chaosaudio.com

Last updated on Jul 01, 2026

• Creating & Syncing Presets

Learn how to build your own presets, sync them to Stratus, and keep them backed up across devices. Automatic Cloud Backup (NEW!) Your presets are now automatically backed up to your Chaos Audio account. This means: - ✅ Sync across devices — Log in on any phone/tablet and your presets are there - ✅ Never lose presets — Uninstall the app, get a new phone, or reset your device — your presets are safe - ✅ No extra steps needed — Backup happens automatically when you save a preset Requirement: You must be signed in to your free Chaos Audio account for auto-backup to work. The Presets Tab The app uses a 3-tab layout: Pedalboard, Presets, and Settings. The Presets tab is your library of saved presets. At the top, you can toggle between: - Presets — Your locally saved presets (also backed up to cloud) - Cloud — Access presets synced from other devices This makes it easy to manage presets across multiple phones or tablets. Creating a New Preset 1. Go to the Pedalboard tab 2. Tap "Create New Preset" if you have an existing preset loaded 3. Tap the + button to add effects 4. Adjust your effects and turn them on with the switch icon 5. Tap the preset name at the top (shows an asterisk * if unsaved) 6. Enter a name and tap save The asterisk (*) disappears when your preset is saved. Adjusting Knobs The knobs in the app work like sliders — touch and drag up/down to increase/decrease the value. They don't follow your finger in a circle; this gives you more precise control. Reordering Effects NEW! You can now reorder effects by: - Dragging effects directly on the Pedalboard - Dragging colored chips at the top of the screen Effect order matters — try putting your overdrive before or after delay to hear the difference! Removing Effects Swipe an effect to the left to reveal the delete option. Color-Coded Presets Each preset is assigned a color that corresponds to its position in Stratus's Preset Mode: - First preset = Bright Blue - Second preset = Dim Blue - Third preset = Bright Green - etc. You can see these colors in the Presets tab. Syncing Presets to Stratus To load your presets onto Stratus for use without the app: 1. Make sure you're connected to Stratus 2. Go to the Presets tab 3. Tap "Sync with Stratus" 4. Your presets download to Stratus over Bluetooth Preset Limits Stratus stores 7 slots × 2 presets = 14 total in Preset Mode. Your first 14 presets will fill these slots. Odd Number of Presets If you have an odd number of presets (e.g., 3, 5, 7), the empty "B" slots will play a clean/unprocessed signal. This can be useful if you want quick access to your clean tone! Quick Preset Creation Tap the star icon ✨ on the Pedalboard page to quickly create an AI effect without going to the effect browser. Need Help? If you have any questions, email us at support@chaosaudio.com

Last updated on Jul 01, 2026

• Stratus CPU Usage

Stratus has a powerful processor, but effects do have CPU limits. Here's how to monitor and optimize your chains. Checking CPU Usage On the Pedalboard page, tap "Stratus CPU Usage" to see what percentage of Stratus's processing power your current chain is using. Example: A simple delay + reverb might only use 6% CPU, while a complex chain of 5-6 effects could use 80%+. CPU Usage Per Effect Type Each effect has different CPU requirements. Here's a general guide: Lower CPU (~5-20%) - Simple delays - Basic overdrives/distortions - Utility effects (EQ, compressors) - Basic modulation (chorus, phaser) Medium CPU (~20-40%) - Complex reverbs (shimmer, modulated) - Pitch shifters - Some AI-generated effects Higher CPU - Impulse Responses (IRs): ~19.4% CPU - NAM Amp Models: ~52.5% CPU - Multiple complex effects stacked NAM Amp Models & Impulse Responses NEW! NAM (Neural Amp Modeler) and IR support bring studio-quality amp and cabinet simulation to Stratus: | Effect Type | CPU Usage | |-------------|-----------| | NAM Amp Model | ~52.5% | | Impulse Response | ~19.4% | Planning tip: A single NAM model takes about half your CPU budget. Pair it with an IR (~19.4%) and you'll have ~28% left for additional effects like delay or reverb. What Happens When CPU is Overloaded If your chain exceeds Stratus's CPU capacity, you may hear: - Bitcrushing/digital artifacts - Crackling or popping - Dropped audio samples A CPU limit warning will appear at the top of the Pedalboard page. How to Fix CPU Overload 1. Remove an effect — Swipe left on the most CPU-hungry effect to delete it 2. Replace with a lighter alternative — Swap a complex reverb for a simpler one, or consider whether you need both a NAM model AND an IR 3. Adjust parameters — Some effects use less CPU with certain settings (shorter reverb tails, lower quality modes if available) 4. Simplify your chain — Do you really need 6 effects at once? Sometimes less is more! Example Chains & CPU Budgets Here are some example chains and their approximate CPU usage: Clean Ambient (~45% CPU) - Compressor (5%) + Delay (10%) + Reverb (15%) + IR (19.4%) High-Gain Direct (~72% CPU) - NAM Amp Model (52.5%) + IR (19.4%) Full Rig (~85% CPU) - Overdrive (10%) + NAM Amp Model (52.5%) + IR (19.4%) + Delay (10%) Pro Tips 1. Leave headroom — Aim for under 80% CPU to avoid surprises during performance 2. NAM + IR combo — A NAM amp model + IR is a complete "amp in a box" solution at ~72% CPU 3. Test before the gig — Build your preset and verify CPU usage before you hit the stage 4. Effects vs NAM — If you need lots of effects, consider using a traditional overdrive instead of a NAM model AI-Generated Effects AI effects can vary in CPU usage depending on their complexity. If an AI effect is using too much CPU, try regenerating it with a simpler prompt, or use a pre-made effect instead. Need Help? If you have any questions, email us at support@chaosaudio.com

Last updated on Jul 01, 2026

• NAM Amp Models

NAM (Neural Amp Modeler) brings studio-quality amp captures to Stratus and Nimbus. These AI-trained models recreate the exact sound of real amplifiers — from clean Fender tones to high-gain Mesa stacks. What is NAM? NAM A2-Lite (Neural Amp Modeler Architecture 2) is an open-source technology that uses machine learning to capture the exact behavior of real amplifiers. In blind listening tests, NAM A2 has proven more accurate than ToneX, Line 6 Helix, and Quad Cortex at recreating the original amp sound. Key benefits: - 🎯 Studio-accurate amp tones in a pedal - 🆓 300,000+ free captures via TONE3000 partnership - 🔓 Open source — no proprietary lock-in - 🎛️ 5 adjustable controls for tone shaping How to Add a NAM Amp Model 1. Go to the Pedalboard tab 2. Tap "Add Effect" 3. Browse to NAM AMP MODELS category 4. Select a model you like 5. Tap "Get" to add to your library 6. While connected to Stratus, tap "Install" Important: NAM models must be installed to Stratus over Bluetooth before they'll produce sound. TONE3000 Integration Chaos Audio has partnered with TONE3000 to give you access to over 300,000 free NAM captures created by the community. To access TONE3000 models: 1. Create a free account at tone3000.com 2. In the Chaos Audio app, go to NAM AMP MODELS 3. Sign in with your TONE3000 account when prompted 4. Browse the full library of captures! Models you download from TONE3000 are saved to your Chaos Audio account and sync across devices. NAM Controls Each NAM model has 5 adjustable parameters: | Control | Function | |---------|----------| | Input | Adjust input gain/drive amount | | Bass | Low frequency EQ | | Mid | Midrange frequency EQ | | Treble | High frequency EQ | | Output | Master volume level | These controls let you shape the tone without needing the original amp's exact settings. Multi-Model Packs Some NAM packs from TONE3000 contain multiple amp models (e.g., different gain stages, channels, or mic positions). When you load a multi-model pack, you'll see a dropdown selector to choose which model to use. This lets you quickly A/B different captures without leaving the effect. CPU Usage NAM Amp Models use approximately 52.5% of Stratus's CPU. This means you can run: - NAM + IR + simple effect (like delay) = ~82% CPU ✓ - NAM + IR alone = ~72% CPU ✓ - NAM + multiple complex effects = may exceed limit ⚠️ Tip: If you're using a NAM model, pair it with an Impulse Response (~19.4% CPU) for a complete "amp + cab" sound, leaving room for one or two additional effects. Example Use Cases Direct to PA/Interface: NAM Model → IR → Output (Complete amp + cab simulation, ~72% CPU) Into a Clean Amp: NAM Model → Your Amp's Clean Channel (Use NAM for preamp character, skip the IR) Pedal Platform: Overdrive → NAM Model → IR (Stack your favorite drive pedal in front) Troubleshooting No sound from NAM model? → Make sure you've tapped "Install" while connected to Stratus Model sounds different than expected? → Adjust the Input and Output controls — NAM models are sensitive to gain staging Running out of CPU? → NAM models are CPU-intensive (~52.5%). Remove other effects or use simpler reverbs/delays Need Help? If you have any questions, email us at support@chaosaudio.com

Last updated on Jul 01, 2026

• Impulse Responses (IRs)

Impulse Responses (IRs) simulate the sound of speaker cabinets and microphone placements. Pair an IR with a NAM amp model or overdrive pedal for a complete "amp in a box" experience. What is an Impulse Response? An Impulse Response is a digital snapshot of how a speaker cabinet (and microphone) colors your sound. When you play through an IR, your signal sounds like it's coming through that exact cab and mic setup. Common IR types include: - 🎸 Guitar cabinets (1x12, 2x12, 4x12) - 🔊 Different speaker brands (Celestion, Jensen, Eminence) - 🎤 Various mic positions (on-axis, off-axis, room) How to Add an Impulse Response 1. Go to the Pedalboard tab 2. Tap "Add Effect" 3. Browse to IMPULSE RESPONSES category 4. Select an IR you like 5. Tap "Get" to add to your library 6. While connected to Stratus/Nimbus, tap "Install" Important: IRs must be installed over Bluetooth before they'll produce sound. TONE3000 Integration Chaos Audio has partnered with TONE3000 to give you access to thousands of free IR files created by the community. To access TONE3000 IRs: 1. Create a free account at tone3000.com 2. In the Chaos Audio app, go to IMPULSE RESPONSES 3. Sign in with your TONE3000 account when prompted 4. Browse and download IRs! IRs you download are saved to your Chaos Audio account and sync across devices. IR Controls Each Impulse Response has 2 adjustable parameters: | Control | Default | Function | |---------|---------|----------| | Mix | 100% | Blend between dry signal and IR-processed signal | | Output | 100% | Master volume level | Mix at 100% = Full cab simulation (typical for direct recording) Mix at 50-70% = Blended tone (useful when also using a real amp) Multi-IR Packs Some IR packs from TONE3000 contain multiple cabinet/mic options (e.g., different mic positions, cab combinations). When you load a multi-IR pack, you'll see a dropdown selector to choose which IR to use. This lets you quickly compare different cab sounds without leaving the effect. Technical Specs - Sample length: Truncated to 1024 samples for optimal performance - CPU usage: ~19.4% of Stratus's processing power - File format: .wav files CPU Usage Impulse Responses use approximately 19.4% of Stratus's CPU. This is efficient enough to pair with: - NAM Amp Model (~52.5%) + IR = ~72% CPU ✓ - Multiple overdrives + IR = plenty of room ✓ - Full effects chain + IR = usually fits ✓ Common Signal Chain Setups Direct Recording Setup: Guitar → NAM Amp Model → IR → Audio Interface (Complete amp + cab simulation) Amp-in-the-Room Alternative: Guitar → NAM Amp Model → IR → FRFR Speaker or PA (Full-range speaker reproduces the "in the room" sound) Hybrid Setup: Guitar → Overdrive → IR → Real Amp (clean channel) (Use IR for cab flavor, real amp for power section) IR vs Cab Sim Effects Why use IRs instead of a cab sim effect? - Accuracy — IRs capture the exact response of real cabs - Variety — Thousands of IRs available for any cab/mic combo - Realism — Includes room reflections and mic characteristics - Consistency — Same cab sound in any venue Troubleshooting No sound from IR? → Make sure you've tapped "Install" while connected to Stratus IR sounds too dark/bright? → Adjust the Mix control, or try a different IR with different mic placement Signal too quiet? → Increase the Output control Need Help? If you have any questions, email us at support@chaosaudio.com

Last updated on Jul 01, 2026

• Uploading Your Own NAMs & IRs

Already have your own NAM models or IR files? Upload them directly to your Chaos Audio account and use them on Stratus or Nimbus! Overview The "USE MY OWN" feature lets you upload: - .nam files — Neural Amp Modeler captures - .wav files — Impulse Response files Once uploaded, your files are: - ✅ Saved to your Chaos Audio account - ✅ Synced across all your devices - ✅ Available to install on any Stratus or Nimbus you connect to How to Upload Your Own NAM Model 1. Go to the Pedalboard tab 2. Tap "Add Effect" 3. Select the NAM AMP MODELS category 4. Tap "USE MY OWN" button 5. Select a .nam file from your device 6. Optionally add a custom image for the effect 7. Tap Upload Your NAM model will appear in your library, ready to install to Stratus. How to Upload Your Own Impulse Response 1. Go to the Pedalboard tab 2. Tap "Add Effect" 3. Select the IMPULSE RESPONSES category 4. Tap "USE MY OWN" button 5. Select a .wav file from your device 6. Optionally add a custom image for the effect 7. Tap Upload Your IR will appear in your library, ready to install to Stratus. Supported File Formats | Type | Format | Notes | |------|--------|-------| | NAM Models | .nam | NAM A2-Lite format | | Impulse Responses | .wav | Truncated to 1024 samples on device | Note: IR files are automatically truncated to 1024 samples for optimal performance on Stratus. This provides excellent sound quality while keeping CPU usage low (~19.4%). Adding Custom Images When uploading, you can optionally add a custom image for your NAM model or IR. This helps you identify your uploads in your library. Image tips: - Square images work best - Keep file size reasonable for faster loading - Use images that represent the amp or cab If you don't add an image, a default placeholder will be used. Where to Find NAM Models & IRs Free NAM Models: - TONE3000 — 300,000+ free captures (also available directly in the app!) - ToneHunt — Community NAM captures - r/NeuralAmpModeling subreddit Free Impulse Responses: - TONE3000 — IR packs available - Celestion Impulse Responses — Official Celestion IRs - OwnHammer — Free starter packs available - ML Sound Lab — Free IR packs Syncing Across Devices Uploads are automatically saved to your Chaos Audio account, so: 1. Upload a NAM model on your phone 2. Log in on your tablet 3. Your uploaded NAM model is already there! This makes it easy to prepare your sounds on one device and use them on another. Installing to Stratus/Nimbus After uploading, you still need to install the effect to your pedal: 1. Find your uploaded file in the NAM AMP MODELS or IMPULSE RESPONSES category 2. Make sure Stratus/Nimbus is connected via Bluetooth 3. Tap "Install" 4. Wait for the Bluetooth transfer to complete Tip: The "Install" button shows a gradient color if the effect isn't installed yet. Troubleshooting Can't find the .nam/.wav file on my device? → Make sure the file is saved to a location your device can access (Downloads folder, iCloud Drive, Google Drive, etc.) Upload failed? → Check your internet connection and try again. Large files may take a moment to upload. NAM model doesn't sound right? → Some NAM captures require specific input gain staging. Adjust the Input control on the NAM effect. IR file rejected? → Make sure it's a valid .wav file. Some IR files may use unsupported sample rates — try a different IR. Need Help? If you have any questions, email us at support@chaosaudio.com

Last updated on Jul 01, 2026

• TONE3000 Integration

TONE3000 is a community platform with over 300,000 free NAM amp captures and IR files. Chaos Audio has partnered with TONE3000 to bring this massive library directly into your app! What is TONE3000? TONE3000 is the largest repository of free Neural Amp Modeler (NAM) captures and Impulse Responses. The community has created captures of: - 🎸 Classic amps (Fender, Marshall, Vox, Mesa, etc.) - 🔥 Boutique amps (Friedman, Soldano, Bogner, etc.) - 🎛️ Pedals and preamps - 🔊 Speaker cabinets with various mic positions All 300,000+ models are free — you just need a free TONE3000 account. Creating a TONE3000 Account 1. Go to tone3000.com 2. Click Sign Up 3. Enter your email and create a password 4. Verify your email That's it! Your free account gives you unlimited access to the entire library. Connecting TONE3000 to Chaos Audio Once you have a TONE3000 account: 1. Open the Chaos Audio app 2. Go to Pedalboard → Add Effect 3. Select NAM AMP MODELS or IMPULSE RESPONSES 4. You'll be prompted to sign in with TONE3000 5. Enter your TONE3000 credentials Once connected, you can browse the full TONE3000 library directly in the app! Browsing TONE3000 Models After connecting your account, the NAM AMP MODELS and IMPULSE RESPONSES categories will show: - Featured models — Popular and highly-rated captures - Categories — Browse by amp brand, style, or type - Search — Find specific amps or tones Tap any model to preview its details, then tap "Get" to add it to your library. Saving to Your Chaos Audio Account When you download a model from TONE3000: 1. It's saved to your Chaos Audio account (not just TONE3000) 2. It syncs across all your devices 3. You can install it to any Stratus or Nimbus This means you don't need to re-download models when switching devices. AI FX Builder Integration Bonus: Linking your TONE3000 account also improves the AI FX Builder! When building AI effects with amp-like prompts (e.g., "Marshall JCM800 style overdrive"), the AI can reference TONE3000's database of real amp characteristics for more accurate results. To enable: 1. Go to build.chaosaudio.com 2. Profile Settings → Connect TONE3000 Popular NAM Captures on TONE3000 Here are some highly-rated captures to get you started: Clean Tones: - Fender Twin Reverb - Fender Deluxe Reverb - Vox AC30 Crunch/Overdrive: - Marshall JCM800 - Marshall Plexi - Friedman BE-100 High Gain: - Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier - EVH 5150 - Peavey 6505 Search for any of these in the app to find multiple capture options from different TONE3000 creators. Quality Varies Since TONE3000 is community-created, quality can vary between captures. Tips for finding great models: - ⭐ Check ratings and reviews - 👤 Look for prolific creators with good reputations - 🔊 Download a few options and compare - 📝 Read capture notes (gain settings, guitar used, etc.) CPU Considerations Remember that NAM models use ~52.5% CPU and IRs use ~19.4% CPU. Typical TONE3000 setup: NAM Amp Capture (~52.5%) + IR Pack (~19.4%) = ~72% CPU This leaves room for a simple effect like delay or reverb. Troubleshooting Can't sign in to TONE3000? → Make sure you verified your email address. Try resetting your password at tone3000.com Models not showing up? → Try signing out and back in to refresh your TONE3000 connection Downloaded model won't install? → Make sure Stratus/Nimbus is connected via Bluetooth, then tap "Install" Need Help? If you have any questions, email us at support@chaosaudio.com

Last updated on Jul 01, 2026