Articles on: MIDI Foot Controllers

Fast Step Mode (Beta)

Fast Step Mode (Preset Utility)

Overview

Fast Step Mode is a new option available under the Preset Utility message type on the MC8 Pro.

This mode improves the responsiveness of rapid footswitch stepping by temporarily delaying the LCD refresh after each switch press.


Why Fast Step Mode Exists

Under normal operation, the MC8 Pro refreshes the LCD immediately after every switch press. While this provides instant visual feedback, the LCD refresh process takes a small amount of processing time.


If multiple switches are pressed very quickly in succession, the controller may not be able to register every press because it is busy updating the display.

Fast Step Mode solves this by delaying the LCD refresh, allowing the controller to prioritize switch detection first.


Benefits

When Fast Step Mode is enabled:

  • Rapid switch stepping becomes more reliable
  • Fast consecutive presses are more likely to register correctly
  • Switching through presets or banks quickly feels more responsive

This is especially useful for users who:

  • Step through presets rapidly during live performance
  • Use rhythmic or fast tap-style footswitch interactions
  • Need maximum switch responsiveness


Trade-Off

Because the LCD refresh is delayed, visual updates on the screen may appear slightly behind the actual switch presses.

This is expected behavior and is the intended trade-off for improved stepping speed.


When to Use Fast Step Mode

Enable Fast Step Mode if you notice:

  • Missed switch presses during rapid stepping
  • Inconsistent response when pressing switches quickly
  • Better performance is needed over immediate LCD updates

If you prefer instant screen feedback and do not perform rapid consecutive presses, you may leave Fast Step Mode disabled.


How to Enable

  1. Edit a preset
  2. Add or edit a Preset Utility message
  3. Enable Fast Step Mode
  4. Save the preset


Once enabled, the MC8 Pro will delay LCD refreshes to improve fast switch registration.

Updated on: 28/05/2026

Was this article helpful?

Share your feedback

Cancel

Thank you!