The BBE Sound Inc. Two Timer is an analog delay pedal built around a simple idea: two independent delay times in one compact box, switchable by foot. MusicRadar, covering its introduction, described it as "essentially two analogue delays in one compact package"1. It sits in the wider family of delay pedals, but its dual-time layout sets it apart from single-setting analog delays.
Two delay times, one footswitch away
The Two Timer's headline feature is its pair of independent delay times. Both are foot switchable via the Time 1/Time 2 mode switch, so a player can set a short slapback on one side and a longer repeat on the other and move between them mid-song without touching a knob1. Alongside the two times, the pedal offers repeat and mix functions for shaping the effect1.
The delay range runs from 0 ms to 330 ms1, which covers the territory most analog delay players use: doubling and slapback at the short end, and longer, darker repeats toward the top of the range.
Analog circuit and origins
The pedal uses a BBD, or Bucket Brigade Delay, chip. MusicRadar noted this was chosen "along with BBD (Bucket Brigade Delay) for the warmth and character only analogue can deliver"1. Bucket brigade chips are the component that gives classic analog delays their slightly darkened, softened repeats, in contrast to the clean repeats of digital delay.
MusicRadar described the Two Timer as "Inspired by the long discontinued Boss DM-2"1, the compact analog delay that established this style of circuit. The Two Timer's contribution is the second delay time and the footswitch to move between them.
Bypass and warranty
The Two Timer uses true hardwire bypass, which MusicRadar described as giving "a clean signal path when the effect is bypassed"1. The unit is guaranteed for 5 years1.
The Two Timer was introduced in February 2008 at a US list price of $2091. It is not a current new release, so today's prices will come from the used market.
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Questions
Is the BBE Sound Two Timer true bypass?
Yes. The Two Timer uses true hardwire bypass, which MusicRadar reported at the pedal's 2008 introduction. That means the effect is taken out of the signal path entirely when the pedal is off, so your guitar's signal reaches the amp without passing through the delay circuitry.
What circuit is the BBE Two Timer based on?
MusicRadar described the Two Timer as inspired by the long discontinued Boss DM-2, the compact analogue delay Boss released in the early 1980s. The Two Timer takes that idea further by offering two independent delay times in one pedal rather than a single setting.
Does the BBE Two Timer use a bucket brigade chip?
Yes. The Two Timer uses a BBD, or Bucket Brigade Delay, chip, the component that gives analogue delays their warmth and character. MusicRadar noted it was chosen for the warmth and character only analogue can deliver.
How do you switch between the two delay times on the Two Timer?
The Two Timer offers two independent delay times, both foot switchable via the Time 1/Time 2 mode switch. That lets you set one delay time for a verse and another for a chorus, for example, and change between them without bending down to turn a knob.
How much does the BBE Sound Two Timer cost?
When BBE Sound Inc. introduced the Two Timer in February 2008, MusicRadar reported a US list price of $209. Prices on the used market today will differ, since the pedal is no longer a new release.
What is the warranty on the BBE Two Timer?
MusicRadar reported at the pedal's introduction that the unit is guaranteed for 5 years, a notably long warranty for a compact stompbox.
Sources (1)
- BBE Sound Two Timer pedal, MusicRadar, 2008-02-04
