Boss HM-2 Heavy Metal Distortion

The Boss HM-2 Heavy Metal Distortion, introduced in 1983 and discontinued in 1991, is a legendary pedal known for its aggressive "chainsaw" tone. Originally designed to emulate the sound of a cranked Marshall stack, the HM-2 became iconic in the Swedish death metal scene, particularly for its role in defining the genre's signature guitar sound. Despite moderate success during its initial run, the pedal gained cult status after its discontinuation and was reissued as the HM-2W Waza Craft edition in 2021.

History and Design

Origins: The HM-2 was developed by Boss to provide heavy distortion with a pronounced midrange and cutting high-end. It featured a unique EQ design with "Color Mix" knobs for boosting lows and highs, alongside Level and Distortion controls.
Production: Initially manufactured in Japan (1983–1988) and later in Taiwan (1988–1991), it was succeeded by the HM-3 Hyper Metal. The pedal's resurgence in popularity led to the release of the HM-2W Waza Craft edition, which added modern features like a Custom mode for enhanced aggression.
Swedish Death Metal: The HM-2 became synonymous with Swedish death metal after bands like Entombed used it with all knobs maxed out ("dimed") to create their iconic buzzsaw guitar tones.

Popular Settings

Swedish Chainsaw: All knobs maxed (Level, Low, High, Distortion). This setting produces the signature grinding tone of Swedish death metal.
Classic Distortion: Level at 3 o'clock, Low at 2 o'clock, High at noon, Distortion at 9 o'clock. Offers a more balanced distortion for rock or heavy blues.
Boosted Overdrive: Level maxed, Low and High at noon, Distortion at minimum. Ideal for pushing an amp into natural breakup.

Notable Players

Entombed: Used the HM-2 to create the iconic guitar tone on their Left Hand Path album, cementing its place in death metal history.
Kurt Ballou (Converge): Known for incorporating it into his rig for extreme metal tones.
Nails and Rotten Sound: Both bands have utilized the HM-2's grinding distortion in their modern extreme metal sounds.

Legacy

The Boss HM-2 Heavy Metal Distortion is celebrated as one of the most influential pedals in metal music. Its aggressive tone has inspired countless clones and adaptations while remaining a favorite among fans of heavy music. With its reissue as the HM-2W Waza Craft edition, Boss has ensured that this legendary pedal continues to shape heavy music for generations to come.