I struggled with the same thing. No autoload on the buttons/footswitches.
I bought a Digitech FS 3x and a longish TRS cable.
Now I can mount the H-9 where ever I want on my board and just leave the FS3x on one side or the other on the floor. And the FS3X will auto load. one of the options is increment or De increment on the buttons, and autoload or just up and down then confirm. I am used to not having the confirm function myself and was elated to find this, Then I have the other button on the FS3x as the tap tempo.
I'm pretty happy at this point, My other option was going to be to attach a piece of stiff foam to the large button/wheel and use it to access it with my foot. I hope this helps
