sbujuetc Chocolate Plus Wireless MIDI Foot Controller Review: The Ultra-Portable Solution for Hands-Free Music Control

As a digital musician and performer, I have often found myself in a precarious “hand-juggling” act. Picture this: you are in the middle of a complex guitar solo or a live synth progression, and you need to switch a preset, toggle a delay, or start a loop on your tablet or laptop. Taking your hands off your instrument even for a split second can break the creative flow and result in a clumsy performance. We’ve all been there—hovering over a touchscreen or fumbling with a mouse while trying to maintain a rhythm. This is exactly the problem that the sbujuetc Chocolate Plus Wireless MIDI Foot Controller aims to solve. For anyone using digital audio workstations (DAWs), mobile modeling apps, or software like Bias FX or Loopy Pro, a hands-free interface isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity to keep the music moving. Without a reliable way to trigger commands with your feet, you are essentially tethered to your screen, losing the physical freedom that makes live performance so rewarding.

What to Consider Before Buying a Computer Recording MIDI Controller

A Computer Recording MIDI controller is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for bridging the gap between physical performance and digital flexibility. In the modern era of music production, our “instruments” are often software-based, residing inside thin tablets or powerful laptops. However, interacting with software through a screen is inherently anti-performative. A MIDI foot controller acts as the translator, allowing your feet to handle the “utility” tasks—like switching patches or starting a metronome—so your hands can focus on the art. By introducing a tactile, physical interface into your digital workflow, you regain the ability to perform with your whole body, which is crucial for both stage presence and home recording efficiency.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the limitations of a “hands-only” setup, such as a guitarist using a mobile modeler like the Valeton GP-5, a keyboardist triggering scene changes in MainStage, or a solo performer managing a looper app. It is perfect for those who prioritize portability and want to minimize cable clutter. However, it might not be suitable for those who require dozens of switches for complex orchestral triggering or those who prefer the weighted feel of traditional expression pedals built into larger, more expensive units. If you need 12 switches and three expression pedals, this compact unit won’t be your primary tool, but for the traveling musician, it is a game-changer.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: Consider where this will live. If you have a crowded pedalboard, you need something slim. The sbujuetc Chocolate Plus Wireless MIDI Foot Controller is remarkably compact at 215mm, making it easy to squeeze into the front pocket of a gig bag or onto a crowded stage floor. Always measure your available “foot real estate” before buying.
• Connectivity Options: While many controllers use traditional 5-pin MIDI cables, the modern standard is moving toward Bluetooth and USB. If you are working with an iPad or a smartphone, wireless Bluetooth connectivity is essential to avoid using dongles. Look for controllers that offer low-latency wireless performance to ensure your “stomps” happen in real-time.
• Software Customization: Hardware is only half the battle. You need to ensure the device has a companion app or software that allows you to remap the buttons. A controller that can’t be programmed to send different MIDI CC or PC commands is essentially a paperweight. Look for “advanced customization” features that allow for toggles, momentary switches, and custom banks.
• Build Quality & Power: Since you will literally be stepping on this device, metal construction is a must for longevity. Furthermore, consider the power source. A rechargeable battery is far superior to disposable 9Vs or being tethered to a wall outlet, especially for portable “busking” setups or tidy home studios.

While the sbujuetc Chocolate Plus Wireless MIDI Foot Controller is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions and Key Features: Unboxing the sbujuetc Chocolate Plus Wireless MIDI Foot Controller

When I first pulled the sbujuetc Chocolate Plus Wireless MIDI Foot Controller out of its packaging, the first thing that struck me was the weight. Despite its small footprint, it has a reassuring heft thanks to its full metal housing. In a market where many budget controllers feel like hollow plastic toys, this unit feels like it could survive a rigorous tour schedule. The design is minimalist and sleek—just four sturdy switches on a black metal bar. It’s incredibly low-profile, standing only about 38mm tall, which means you don’t have to lift your foot high off the ground to activate it, reducing fatigue during long sets.

Setting it up was a straightforward affair. It comes with a USB cable for charging and wired connection, though the real magic is the Bluetooth integration. This is a 2025 model year device, and it feels modern. Comparing it to older, bulkier foot controllers I’ve used in the past, the lack of a “clunky” external power brick is a massive relief. I suggest you check the latest pricing and features to see how this value-packed unit fits into your budget. It’s clearly designed for the musician who values a “plug-and-play” (or rather “pair-and-play”) philosophy without sacrificing the ruggedness required for live performance.

A Deep Dive into the Performance of the sbujuetc Chocolate Plus Wireless MIDI Foot Controller

Wireless Connectivity and Low-Latency Response

The core selling point of the sbujuetc Chocolate Plus Wireless MIDI Foot Controller is its wireless capability. In my testing, I paired it with an iPad Pro running various guitar apps and a Windows laptop running Ableton Live. The pairing process via Bluetooth was remarkably fast. We found that the latency—the delay between pressing the switch and the sound changing—was virtually imperceptible. This is a critical factor; even a few milliseconds of lag can ruin a performance if you’re trying to time a loop perfectly. The sbujuetc Chocolate Plus Wireless MIDI Foot Controller uses an advanced Bluetooth protocol that keeps the connection stable even in environments with some signal interference.

I took this unit into a room with multiple active Wi-Fi routers and other Bluetooth devices to see if the connection would drop. To my surprise, it remained rock solid. This reliability makes it a viable tool for stage use where wireless interference is common. For those who are still skeptical of wireless tech, you can always plug it in via the included USB cable, but once you experience its portable control power without cables, you won’t want to go back. It truly liberates your performance space.

The Hardware Experience: Durability and Foot-Switch Tactility

When you are performing, you need to feel the “click” to know your command has been sent. The four switches on the sbujuetc Chocolate Plus Wireless MIDI Foot Controller are “soft-touch” but offer enough resistance to provide tactile feedback. They aren’t the loud, mechanical “crunch” switches found on some vintage pedals, which is actually a benefit if you are recording in a studio and don’t want the sound of the switches bleeding into your microphones. The metal chassis doesn’t flex, even when I applied significant pressure. This is a rechargeable MIDI solution that feels like it was built to last years of stomping.

Another detail I appreciated was the spacing of the switches. Despite the unit being only 215mm wide, the buttons are spaced far enough apart that I didn’t accidentally hit two at once with my size 11 shoes. This is a common flaw in “mini” controllers, but sbujuetc seems to have found the “Goldilocks” zone of size versus usability. Whether you are using it for fast forward/rewind in a DAW or toggling distortion on and off, the physical interaction is satisfying and reliable. It’s a highly customizable wireless foot controller that understands the physical needs of a working musician.

Advanced Customization via CubeSuite Software

To truly unlock the potential of this device, you have to use the CubeSuite software. This is where you program what each button does. You can set them to send Program Change (PC) messages to switch presets or Control Change (CC) messages to toggle effects. My experience with the software was mixed but ultimately successful. While the interface isn’t as polished as some high-end desktop software, it is functional and allows for deep “under the hood” tweaks. For instance, I was able to set a “long press” function on one of the buttons to trigger a secondary command, effectively giving me more than just four options.

We noticed that many users who initially struggled with the software found that watching a few tutorials made a world of difference. Once I understood the logic of the app, I could map the sbujuetc Chocolate Plus Wireless MIDI Foot Controller to my Valeton GP-5 in minutes. It supports various platforms including Android, Windows, and iOS, making it one of the most versatile controllers in its price bracket. If you are looking for a device that grows with your needs, you should read more about its technical specs regarding MIDI mapping.

Battery Life and Field Performance

There is nothing worse than a piece of gear dying in the middle of a set. The 300mAh lithium battery in the sbujuetc Chocolate Plus Wireless MIDI Foot Controller is rated for 12 hours. In my real-world testing, I found this estimate to be quite accurate. I used it for several three-hour practice sessions over the course of a week without needing to recharge it once. This makes it an ideal companion for weekend buskers or musicians who don’t want to add another “charging chore” to their daily routine. The USB charging is quick, usually reaching a full charge in about two hours.

The “portable” in the name isn’t just marketing. Because it’s so light (0.01kg according to the spec sheet, though it feels a bit more substantial due to the metal), it doesn’t add any noticeable weight to your bag. I’ve used it in home studio settings where I just needed a quick way to hit “Record” and “Stop” while sitting at my drum kit, and it worked flawlessly. This level of convenience is a feature that really sets it apart from the bulky, plastic controllers of the past. To see it in action, you can see its full feature set and user reviews from other professional performers.

What Other Users Are Saying

The general sentiment surrounding the sbujuetc Chocolate Plus Wireless MIDI Foot Controller is one of impressed utility balanced with a slight frustration regarding the software. Most users agree that for the price, the hardware is unbeatable. One user noted, “Hardware wise feels ok… the iOS and Android apps are very low quality,” which mirrors my experience that the software requires a bit of patience. However, another user pointed out that it is “a must-have for the Valeton GP-5 pedal,” noting that it was “easy to configure” after watching a few YouTube videos.

Another reviewer highlighted its versatility, stating it “works excellent with my guitar modelers” and mentioned successful integration with both Valeton and Sonicake devices. This feedback is relevant because it confirms that while the companion app might feel “unreliable” to some, the actual MIDI functionality—once programmed—is flawless. The consensus is clear: if you are willing to spend 20 minutes learning the software, the sbujuetc Chocolate Plus Wireless MIDI Foot Controller becomes an indispensable part of your rig.

How the sbujuetc Chocolate Plus Wireless MIDI Foot Controller Compares to Alternatives

While the Chocolate Plus is a specialized foot controller, it’s helpful to see how it fits into the broader world of MIDI controllers. Depending on whether you need keys, pads, or just foot switches, your choice might change.

1. M-AUDIO Hammer 88 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

The M-AUDIO Hammer 88 is a completely different beast, designed for the serious pianist who needs a “real piano” feel. While the sbujuetc Chocolate Plus is about portability and foot control, the Hammer 88 is a stationary desk unit with 88 fully-weighted keys. If you are looking to control a DAW from a keyboard perspective, the Hammer 88 is superior, but it obviously cannot be used as a foot-switched preset toggler. These two products actually complement each other well; you could use the Hammer 88 for your main performance and the sbujuetc Chocolate Plus Wireless MIDI Foot Controller to switch your piano patches hands-free.

2. Akai Professional MPD218 USB MIDI Controller with MPC Pads

The Akai MPD218 is the go-to for beatmakers and finger-drummers. It features 16 thick MPC pads and six assignable knobs. This is perfect for those who want to produce music by hand, triggering drum samples or twisting filters. Compared to the sbujuetc Chocolate Plus, the Akai offers more hands-on control for production but lacks the “hands-free” benefit. If you are a guitarist or a live looper, the Akai won’t help you much while your hands are on your instrument, which is where the Chocolate Plus truly shines. Both are portable, but they serve different roles in the creative process.

3. Arturia MiniLab 3 25-Key MIDI Controller

The Arturia MiniLab 3 is perhaps the most versatile of the bunch, offering 25 mini-keys, pads, and faders in a small footprint. It’s an all-in-one “studio in a bag.” However, even with its small size, it’s not designed to be stepped on. The sbujuetc Chocolate Plus Wireless MIDI Foot Controller is a better choice for someone who already has their sound source and just needs a “remote control” for their feet. If you are a producer who needs to play melodies and trigger pads, the MiniLab is the winner. If you are a performer who needs to switch scenes while playing a physical instrument, stick with the Chocolate Plus.

Final Verdict: Is the sbujuetc Chocolate Plus Wireless MIDI Foot Controller Worth It?

After putting the sbujuetc Chocolate Plus Wireless MIDI Foot Controller through its paces, I can confidently say it is one of the best value-for-money accessories a digital musician can own. Its combination of a rugged metal build, reliable Bluetooth connectivity, and a long-lasting rechargeable battery makes it a standout in a niche market. While the CubeSuite software might not be the most intuitive at first glance, the payoff for those who spend a little time with it is a fully customized, ultra-portable control center that fits in the palm of your hand—or under the sole of your shoe.

I would highly recommend this to any guitar player using mobile apps, any live performer who needs to manage their DAW without stopping the music, or even home studio owners who want a wireless “transport” controller to hit record from across the room. It solves the “hands-full” problem elegantly and affordably. If you are ready to declutter your setup and take full control of your digital rig, you should explore the current deals and add this versatile tool to your arsenal today. It’s a small investment that offers a massive upgrade to your performance workflow.