Opus model response time unacceptable for /month tier

Problem

Claude Code with Opus model (claude-opus-4-6) consistently takes 3-5+ minutes in "Synthesizing" phase before producing any output. This happens on every message, not just complex tasks.

Context

• Plan: Max tier ($200/month)
• Model: claude-opus-4-6
• Multiple MCP servers configured (typical power-user setup)
• Large project context (CLAUDE.md, MEMORY.md, system reminders)

User Impact

• 3-5 minute wait per message is not acceptable at this price point
• "Fast mode" (/fast) should be the default, not an opt-in workaround
• The existence of a "fast mode" implies the normal mode is artificially slow, which feels like a poor product decision
• Users paying $200/month should get the best experience by default

Suggestion

1. Make fast mode the default for paying users
2. Optimize context processing — large CLAUDE.md + multiple MCP servers shouldn't cause multi-minute delays
3. Be transparent about why "Synthesizing" takes so long

This feedback comes directly from a frustrated power user who loves the product but finds the wait times disrespectful given the price.