User Manual

4.6 Hosted vs. Standalone
The SoftStep can operate in two different modes —!Hosted mode and Standalone mode. While
functionality is generally the same between the two modes, there are some differences —!each with
their own benefits and drawbacks.
Hosted Mode
First and foremost, Hosted mode requires the SoftStep be connected to a computer with the
Advanced Editor running.
When in Hosted mode, the SoftStep transmits its raw sensor data (as CC messages) to the SoftStep
Editor. The editor then takes the raw data and processes it into the correct MIDI (as defined in the
modlines), then outputs it over the virtual MIDI port, SoftStep Share (Mac only —!Windows users
should see the SoftStep Share section for more info on third-party alternatives).
Standalone Mode
When in Standalone mode, the SoftStep behaves like a “standard” MIDI controller —!all MIDI data
comes directly from the SoftStep. The editor does not need to be running in order to to operate
the SoftStep in Standalone mode.
Differences between Hosted and Standalone mode
State Recall
When in Hosted mode, state recall is available. This means that X/Y Increment, toggle, and LED
states will be remembered when switching between presets. In Standalone mode state recall is
not available for SoftStep 1 hardware — states will not be remembered when changing presets.
SoftStep 2 hardware does offer state recall when in Standalone mode.
Live Editor Feedback
When running the editor in Hosted mode the modlines provide live feedback — the raw,
result, and value number boxes update in real time to show what is going on in the modlines.
This behavior does not occur when in Standalone mode.
Source List
Standalone mode does not support the full list of sources and message types that Hosted
mode does. In Standalone mode, the sources list does not include MIDI A-H, Top, Bottom, the
trigger latch sources, or most Nav sources. Message types not included in Standalone mode
are OSC, Garageband, Aftertouch, Poly Aftertouch, Y Inc Set, or X Inc Set.
A complete list of sources and messages types can be found in the Sources and Message
Types section, respectively.
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