User Manual | Help Center

Getting Started

Included in your box, you'll find: - Stratus - USB-C cable - Rubber feet - Stickers and documentation Before using Stratus, you'll need to download the Chaos Audio mobile app. Download our app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Requires an iPhone or Android device. We also recommend updating Stratus' firmware out of the box for the best experience. If you have any other questions, feel free to email us at support@chaosaudio.com

Last updated on Mar 25, 2025

• Download the Chaos Audio app

To download the Chaos Audio app, use the following links: 1. If you're on an iPhone or iPad, click here 2. If you're on an Android device, click here 3. You can also search for "Chaos Audio" in your respective app store and find the Chaos Audio app that way! If you need any additional assistance, please reach out to support@chaosaudio.com

Last updated on Mar 25, 2025

• Supported mobile devices

The Chaos Audio app works with most Apple iOS devices and Android devices. The app is optimized for performance on mobile phones, and tablet optimization is in the pipeline. We recommend using a smart device from the last 4 years for best performance, or more specifically a smart device that meets the following minimum specifications: iOS 1. iPhone 8 or higher (required) 2. iOS 15 or higher Android 1. Android 10 or higher (required) 2. At least 3GB RAM 3. At least a quad-core CPU

Last updated on Mar 25, 2025

• Connecting to Stratus

1. Before using Stratus, you'll need to download the Chaos Audio mobile app. Download our app by clicking here on your smartphone or tablet, or by searching for “Chaos Audio” in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. 2. To power Stratus, use a center-negative 9V power supply capable of at least a 500mA current output. - After plugging Stratus into power (USB or 9V), you'll notice that the LEDs at the top of Stratus begin to display a booting animation where one LED moves from left to right. - Once this animation stops and the LEDs and begin to respond to the stomp switch or knob, your Stratus is powered up and ready to go! 3. Open the Chaos Audio app, register an account (or sign in), then navigate to "Settings" -> "Scan for Devices" 4. The app will scan for all nearby Chaos Audio hardware, and "Stratus" should appear in the list. 5. Tap the text "Stratus" in the list to connect to your pedal. 6. The app will take about 5 seconds to connect. 7. Once the status says "Connected," you're good to go! Happy jamming. 🤘 NOTE: You cannot connect to Stratus through your phone or tablet's native settings. You MUST use the Chaos Audio app to connect to Stratus. If you have any other questions please email us at support@chaosaudio.comConnecting to Stratus

Last updated on Mar 26, 2025

• Stratus hardware overview

LEDs – The interactive LED strip lets you know when Stratus is booting, the status of your effects chain, currently selected presets, your current volume, and much more. Multiknob – The Multiknob controls a variety of functions, including output volume, the Looper, and the currently selected preset or effect while in Live Mode. Foot Switch – This momentary switch functions as an on/off button for your entire effects chain when in Master Mode, or toggles individual effects/presets when in Live Mode. USB-C Port – This port can be used to power Stratus, download firmware updates from the Stratus Update Tool, and can be used to send and receive MIDI commands. When connected to a MIDI controller via a USB host port, you can send MIDI PC messages to instantly load your favorite presets. DC Power – This port accepts a 9V center-negative power supply capable of at least 400mA to power Stratus. We HIGHLY recommend that you power Stratus via its own isolated, dedicated power supply (do not daisy-chain!). Audio Jacks – There are two mono, quarter-inch audio jacks, one on each side of Stratus, labeled "IN" and "OUT". Connect your instrument to the jack labelled "IN" and connect your amp or recording interface to the jack labelled "OUT". If you have any other questions, please email us at support@chaosaudio.com

Last updated on Mar 26, 2025

• Multiknob functions

Stratus has two modes: Master 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. Instructions for the Looper can be found here. Live Mode - Stompbox Control 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 Control and Preset Control. Note that the looper and volume control functions are not available while in Live Mode. Instructions for Live Mode can be found here. Live Mode - Preset Control 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 Control and Preset Control. Note that the looper and volume control functions are not available while in Live Mode. Instructions for Live Mode can be found here.

Last updated on Mar 26, 2025

• Powering Stratus

To power Stratus, we recommend using the 9V DC input. The USB-C port is capable of powering Stratus but may incur additional noise within the audio signal. CenterNegative.webp WARNING: Only use a center-negative, 9V power supply capable of at least 400mA current output! We also recommend using an isolated power supply, not connected to any other effects pedals. Daisy-chaining power or using non-isolated power may result in additional noise. If you own other guitar pedals, you will most likely have a power supply that matches these specs. If you are unsure or do not have a proper power supply, the Chaos Audio Power Supply is the option that we recommend. Once you’ve plugged in the device, you'll notice that the LEDs at the top of Stratus will begin to display a blue and pink gradient boot animation. Chaos_Audio_-_Boot_GIF_AdobeExpress.GIF Once the LEDs stop pulsing and respond to the stomp switch being pressed or knob being turned, your device is powered up and ready to go! Chaos_Audio_-_On_GIF_AdobeExpress.GIF If you have any other questions, feel free to email us at support@chaosaudio.com

Last updated on Mar 26, 2025

• Updating Stratus' firmware

To update Stratus' firmware, download the Stratus Update Tool located at www.chaosaudio.com/downloads 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. 8. 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 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) NOTE: Must be running macOS Big Sur 11.0 or higher. **TROUBLESHOOTING ** If you're having problems updating your Stratus, try the following steps: 1. Try using a different USB-C cable to complete the update. 2. Try relaunching Stratus Update Tool, and try unplugging and re-plugging your Stratus pedal. 3. Try restarting your computer. 4. If you're getting a "Failed to connect the pedal" error, please make sure the pedal is fully booted and that you're not simultaneously running a virtual machine (like Parallels for Mac). If you have any other questions please email us at support@chaosaudio.com

Last updated on Mar 26, 2025

• Mobile App Setup

- Enable wireless communications (other than Wi-Fi and cellular data) in your smartphone or tablet settings. - Make sure Stratus is powered on and that the LEDs are responsive. IMG_5814.png - Tap the "Settings" icon in the navigation bar (located at the bottom right-hand corner). IMG_8364.PNG - Scan for your Stratus named "Stratus". IMG_7603.PNG - Tap the device name to connect, then tap "Yes" to confirm. IMG_7604.PNG - Wait for the connection status to show "Connected". IMG_7605.PNG - Tap the "i" icon to access additional settings. IMG_7606.PNG - You can rename your Stratus pedal by tapping the option "RENAME". IMG_7607.PNG If you have any other questions feel free to email us at support@chaosaudio.com

Last updated on Mar 26, 2025

• Tone Shop

Tone Shop™ is our online platform which consists of plugins created by Chaos Audio and other brands! You must download plugins from Tone Shop™ into your Library and install them onto your Stratus® before they are able to be used on your Stratus pedal. All Tone Shop™ plugins are cross-platform between Stratus®, Mac, and PC (AAX, VST3, AU). Buy a plugin once, and use that plugin on every platform! Whether you're in the studio or on stage, Tone Shop™ has you covered. Plugins are sorted into different categories. IMG_F635725AC172-1.jpeg Tap "Explore" to see all plugins. IMG_B4670C5A2495-1.jpeg Tap on a plugin to view its details. NOTE: If you see the screen below, you must connect to your Stratus pedal wirelessly from the app before installing the plugin. IMG_FEE07E7D7617-1.jpeg Tap "GET" to save the plugin to your Library. IMG_207C01024731-1.jpeg If the plugin is not installed, tap "INSTALL" to begin the installation process. NOTE: If you connect to your Stratus and tap "GET" but do not tap "INSTALL", you will still be able to add that plugin to your Pedalboard, but you will not notice a change to your guitar signal. If you encounter this issue, ensure you: 1. are connected to Stratus 2. tap "GET" on the desired plugin 3. tap "INSTALL" and complete the plugin installation in full. IMG_A1CAFA8C861E-1.jpeg Do not close the app or let your Stratus® power off during installation. IMG_A766C08B1F98-1.jpeg The button will display "INSTALLED" when the plugin is installed and is ready to be used in your Pedalboard. IMG_BBFDD6ABE7B2-1.jpeg If you have any other questions, please email us at support@chaosaudio.com - - - -

Last updated on Mar 26, 2025

• Library page

This page shows any saved plugins or presets on your mobile device. Once you save a plugin from Tone Shop, it will stay in your "Effects" tab for easy access. "Presets" can be easily added to your effects chain from this page as well. Saved plugins are stored within your Library. IMG_3212.PNG Saved presets are also easily accessible via your Library. You can backup or share presets by tapping "Export" (this will save your selected presets as a file), and you can import presets from backups or from downloads online by tapping "Import" and selecting the associated presets file. Tapping "Sync with Stratus" downloads all of your presets into Stratus' local storage. This is handy for Preset Control in Live Mode, or when using a MIDI controller. NOTE: The number located to the left of each preset is the MIDI PC # associated with that preset. You can also drag and drop presets to change their order or drag a preset to the left to delete it. IMG_3213.PNG You can also save and load presets from the Pedalboard screen. IMG_5804.PNG IMG_5805.PNG If you have any other questions, please email us at support@chaosaudio.com

Last updated on Mar 26, 2025

• Pedalboard page

This page contains your virtual effects chain. Tap the plus (+) button in the center of your screen to begin adding plugins from your library. Once you add a plugin, you can tap the pedal artwork once to open the pedal parameters and adjust them as needed. Tap on the plus (+) button to add the first plugin to your chain. IMG_47E9D3AE8A93-1.jpeg Once loaded, you can tap the stomp switch to toggle the plugin or tap elsewhere on the plugin to open each pedal's exploded view. Exploded view increases the size of the pedal artwork and allows you to adjust parameters. IMG_8365.PNG Touch any knob and move your finger up or down to adjust any given parameter. You can toggle the stomp switch from this view as well. Once finished, tap the "CLOSE" button to return to the full pedalboard view. IMG_8366.PNG You can continue to add new plugins to your chain by tapping the plus (+) button to the left or right of the plugin currently displayed. The order of your plugins will impact how your FX chain sounds, similar to analog pedalboards. The signal chain in the mobile app always flows from left to right (-->). IMG_8367.PNG Stratus has a dynamic effects limit, as some plugins take more processing power than others. If Stratus' CPU limit has been reached, this message will appear when attempting to add another plugin. Either remove an existing effect from your Pedalboard or attempt to load a different plugin. IMG_8368.PNG Tap on the ellipses (...) in the top right corner to access the Pedalboard menu. From here you can save presets, load a preset, or clear your entire pedalboard. IMG_5804.PNG If you have any other questions feel free to email us at support@chaosaudio.com

Last updated on Mar 26, 2025

• Effects chain flow

Most physical pedal boards are set up for the effects to flow from right to left. On the Chaos Audio app, you build your pedal board starting from left and adding to the right. We chose to have the effects chain laid out this way so the app feels consistent with typical app ergonomics.

Last updated on Mar 26, 2025

• 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 Mar 26, 2025

• Using the Looper

1. Make sure your Stratus is updated to the latest software version using the Stratus Update Tool. 2. Stratus' looper lives within the black Multiknob located below the LED strip 3. To start looping, press the Multiknob once. Stratus will begin recording (LEDs will flash red). 4. To begin playback, press the Multiknob a second time (LEDs will flash green). 5. To begin overdubbing (simultaneous playback and recording), press the Multiknob a third time (LEDs will flash yellow). Subsequent Multiknob presses will alternate between playback and overdubbing. 6. To clear your loop, press and hold the Multiknob for 3 seconds (LEDs will rapidly flash red 3 times). 7. To pause your loop, double-tap the Multiknob. You can resume playback by tapping the Multiknob once. Looper_3up.png The Looper is accessed through Stratus' hardware. There is no Looper functionality in the mobile app itself. The Looper features up to 5 minutes of recording time and unlimited overdubs. If you have any issues or feedback for the Looper, please reach out to support@chaosaudio.com

Last updated on Mar 26, 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 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 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 Mar 26, 2025

• General troubleshooting

Our best advice for troubleshooting is: 1. Check your connection to Stratus® in the Chaos Audio mobile app if your pedal is not functioning as intended. 2. Restart Stratus and see if the issue is resolved. - Unplug Stratus from power - Wait at least 10 seconds - Plug Stratus back in 1. Make sure your pedal's firmware is up to date using the Stratus Update Tool. 2. Make sure your Chaos Audio mobile app is up to date. 3. Reach out to us at support@chaosaudio.com. We'll help you resolve your issue. If you have any other questions, please email us at support@chaosaudio.com

Last updated on Mar 26, 2025