My router has a depth stop and integral back-off wheel so that I can set the final depth and lock it, and then back off the router for a small first cut, and the steps on the adjustment wheel allow 1/8" incremental cuts. I do use this when not confused. It is obviously necessary with larger bits of understandable geometry, and I have broke a 1/4" Dia. straight bit at a depth of 5/8", just trying to get a good estimate of the depth I had set in a test piece, after a short distance. Forget about it with a smaller bit, or a larger I guess.
I just did a bunch of 1/4" roundover, and also 1/4" rogee at the edge of some 5/8" mdf. I did it all at the final depth, no increments. These are small bits, 1/4", so think I just got away with it. I was prepared for it to let go at any time, but I had already started. I was using the companies best Ti-C bit set. But I do not know the teachings when it comes to these kind of profile bits. What is the rule. Is there any difference from other bits? To be honest the question is a little premature because me ain't even considered what type of bits need only one pass because of the actual profile generated, if necessarily possible. If I don't find out I may be in for a rough ride.