BECOS FX CompIQ TWAIN Mk2 Dual Band/Stacked Compressor with DITOS for Guitar and Bass

CompIQ TWAIN is a precision tool for dynamic audio processing of bass and guitar signals, which gives tremendous control over compression parameters and then some. It features adaptive auto attack & release timing presets and independent compression controls for knee, threshold, ratio, and make-up gain – on each band. It can work as a dual-band compressor/limiter with variable crossover point, or as a stacked compressor with separate controls for each analog engine – at the flick of a switch.

The Twain MK2 version removes both saturation engines on the dry line, which were intended to add controlled harmonic distortion for dual-band processing on MK1. Instead, it adds a multi-function switch for Feed Forward / Feed-Back compression mode for each band, or a combination of Feed-Forward for Lows and Feed-Back for Highs. It also includes a variable Side-Chain Filter with cut or boost in the control signal for both bands, an updated input preamp with ±12dB boost or cut, and a signal peak level indicator for input and output. Additionally, we offer the optional DITOS transformer-balanced DI output to send the signal to a mixing desk, recording interface, or other processor down the line.

In Feed-Forward mode, compression is fast and accurate, utilizing a pre-VCA copy of the input signal. This mode can range from subtle compression to brick-wall limiting, depending on the control settings. The newly introduced “old-school” Feed-Back compression delivers a smoother response, ideal for transparently evening out playing dynamics, using a post-VCA copy of the audio signal for dynamic processing. A combination of the two modes is available, providing compression and up to limiting for the lows (Feed Forward) and smooth compression for the highs (Feed-Back).

With the flip of a switch, the two independent engines can be stacked in series to slow down compression further, achieving a thick & gluing or fine smoothing, optical-like compression feel. This mode benefits from the variable Side-Chain Filters on both lows and highs. The Side-Chain capabilities now include a variable Lo-cut/boost filter specifically designed for bass instruments (±12dB @ 90Hz, 12dB/octave), which helps prevent premature engagement of the lows compressor. The matching variable Hi-cut/boost filter (±7dB @ 3kHz, 12dB/octave) further smooths out the compression feel for the highs. These enhancements manage optimal compression across lows, mids, and highs, delivering professional dynamics and extending the threshold range down to -50dBu when boosting their frequencies in the side-chain.

The optional DITOS board features a transformer-coupled balanced output in 1/4″ TRS format for direct recording or signal sending. It can also serve as an unbalanced floating output to another pedal or amplifier, capturing output transformer warmth. The main output is always functional.

The Twain Pro MK2 retains the highest performance 4320 THAT Analog Engine® enhanced by Burr-Brown™ FET signal conditioning throughout the circuit, rendering tight and punchy lows, and warm-ringing highs. It provides the musical response of studio quality vintage analog circuitry processing, with full controls for professional compression and limiting in a very compact format.

The DITOS Transformer-Coupled Balanced Output DI is an optional feature that uses ultra-quiet FET Burr-Brown™ technology and advanced line drivers for high performance, signal conditioning, and a warm, musical tone. The 1/4″ TRS output supports direct recording, connection to a mixing console, or acts as an unbalanced floating output with a TS mono plug for linking to another pedal or amplifier. It includes an internal ground-lift jumper to resolve ground-loop noise; we recommend leaving the jumper on unless internal circuit ground lift is needed. When the main VCA output is in true bypass, DITOS still receives input from it, functioning as a consecutive device. Twain and DITOS share active components, even without the DITOS balanced output installed. This always-connected active load results in a slight signal level difference between Twain’s powered and non-powered VCA output true bypass. When not powered, the DITOS can’t output any signal.

• Functions as Dual-Band compressor or Stacking compressors in series
• Two independent 4320 THAT Analog Engines® with RMS-level sensors coupled with high-performance Blackmer® VCA’s
• DITOS transformer-coupled balanced output (10KΩ impedance; can function as floating unbalanced output as well)
• Input Preamp with trimming for -12dB of attenuation and up to +12dB of gain
• Peak level indicator for signals above -2dBu at input preamp and +2dBu at final output buffer
• Variable 70Hz to 1KHz Linkwitz–Riley Crossover
• Independent Ratio, Threshold, and Make-up Gain
• Independent Compression Knee (Soft/Hard)
• Independent Dynamic Auto Timing presets (Auto Fast / Auto Slower)
• Selectable Feed Forward / Feed-Back / Combined compression mode
• Side Chain Frequency Compensation for balancing the triggering potential of Lows & Highs – equivalent to a frequency-based progressive threshold
• Side Chain Filters with cut & boost function on Lows and Highs engines
• Dry / Wet Mix knob for parallel compression in either of the working modes
• 6-LED gain reduction display on each band
• True Bypass on/off footswitch
• 9-18V DC external power supply (not included), center negative, 12mm long barrel plug
• Road-ready, durable, black-powdered aluminum enclosure (Hammond)
• 3-years warranty (direct to manufacturer, international, transferable)
• Hand-assembled in Vienna, Austria

For more information about the CompIQ series of compressors, please see Becos FX's CompIQ 101