Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $45
Budget/Beginner
$80
$181+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 3 merchants for "The "Heavy Metal" Distortion Pedal". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Dive into the depths of sonic chaos with the "Heavy Metal" Distortion Pedal, a quintessential tool for guitarists seeking the unmistakable crunch and bite of extreme metal. This pedal is not just a piece of equipment—it's a rite of passage for any serious metalhead. With a legendary circuit that has inspired countless imitations, the "Heavy Metal" Distortion Pedal delivers an aggressive tone that cuts through the mix with precision. Its robust construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of stage and studio alike, making it a reliable companion for every gig and recording session.
The pedal's intuitive controls allow you to sculpt your sound with ease, offering an impressive range of tonal possibilities. Turn up the gain for a ferocious, saturated distortion or dial it back for a gritty, articulate crunch. This pedal doesn't just amplify your sound—it transforms it, giving you the power to carve out your own niche in the metal landscape.
Whether you're shredding solos or laying down earth-shattering riffs, the "Heavy Metal" Distortion Pedal is your key to unlocking the full potential of your guitar's voice. Perfect for both veterans of the metal scene and newcomers alike, this pedal is more than just an effect—it's a vital part of your musical identity.
Key Features:
- Legendary circuit design for authentic heavy metal tone
- Robust construction for durability
- Intuitive controls for extensive tone shaping
- Versatile gain range for varied distortion levels
- Ideal for gigs, studio recordings, and practice sessions
Product specs
| Brand | Boss |
| Model | HM-2 Heavy Metal (Black Label) |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 1983 - 1988 |
| Made In | Japan |
| Categories | Distortion Pedals, Overdrive and Boost Pedals |
FAQs
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What kind of sound can I expect from the Boss HM-2 Heavy Metal distortion pedal?
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The Boss HM-2 Heavy Metal pedal is renowned for its aggressive, chainsaw-like distortion, ideal for heavy metal genres. It delivers a thick, saturated tone that cuts through mixes, making it a staple for metal guitarists seeking an intense sound.
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Is the Boss HM-2 Heavy Metal pedal suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the Boss HM-2 is well-suited for live performances due to its robust build and ability to produce a powerful, distinctive distortion that projects well in a live setting.
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Can the Boss HM-2 Heavy Metal pedal be used with a bass guitar?
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While primarily designed for electric guitars, the Boss HM-2 can be used with a bass guitar to achieve an aggressive, gritty distortion that complements heavy music styles.
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What are the main controls on the Boss HM-2 Heavy Metal pedal?
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The Boss HM-2 features four main controls: Level, Color Mix (High and Low), and Distortion. These allow for precise adjustment of output volume, tone shaping, and distortion intensity.
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Does the Boss HM-2 Heavy Metal pedal require a specific power supply?
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The Boss HM-2 can be powered by a 9V battery or a standard 9V DC power supply, making it compatible with most pedalboard setups.
Videos
Ola Englund
DEATH VS DEATH METAL - BOSS HM2 vs BEHRINGER HM300
Reviews
PROS
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Delivers iconic Swedish Death Metal and shoegaze tones effectively
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Interactive EQ controls provide versatile sound shaping
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Robust build quality typical of BOSS products
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Excellent for creating a rich, heavy metal chainsaw sound
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Capable of producing unique, aggressive distortion tones
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Works well with other pedals for diverse noise creation
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Ideal for loud, modern guitar setups needing distinct sound separation
CONS
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Limited gain range, often used at maximum setting
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Unsuitable for clean channels; requires a distorted amp
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Not versatile for genres outside heavy metal
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Can produce harsh, screeching tones unsuitable for all listeners
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about The "Heavy Metal" Distortion Pedal.
Features and functionality
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Owners note EQ knobs are touchy but powerful, with a gain jump at zero and mid control jump after 12 o'clock.
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The Empress Heavy and Friedman BE-OD excel in versatility, covering a wide range of high-gain sounds with detailed EQ options.
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The EQD Life Pedal combines a RAT circuit, a green ringer octave, and a clean boost, offering a multi-faceted approach to distortion.
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For a hi-fi sound, users suggest rolling down the guitar volume, noting significant tonal improvement.
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A favored EQ setting among users is the low knob at 3 o'clock and the mid knob at 1 o'clock, delivering an optimal sound balance.
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Use cases and applications
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Delivers thick, doomy low-end growl ideal for styles like shoegaze, capturing the signature sounds of My Bloody Valentine.
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The Boss RE20 Space Echo is favored for metal due to its dark, cavernous reverb and tape echo, enhancing eerie atmospheres in metal tracks.
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For doom metal, the traditional red germanium Fuzz Face, when boosted, provides a rich, organic texture and dynamic response with P90s.
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Owners highlight that the HM300 is excellent for lead solo tones with a fuzz violin-like saturation that remains tight and articulate.
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When used for harmony lead lines, the pedal offers clear articulation and natural pick attack, enhancing musical complexity.
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Comparisons
User experience
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Priced at $20, users are impressed by the pedal's ability to quickly dial in desired tones and its overall performance.
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After switching from the GE-7, users find the Walrus Audio Emissary provides a better mid boost for the DS-1X, enhancing tightness and clarity.
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Some users find the "all knobs dimed" setting less appealing, preferring more nuanced settings for a richer tone.
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Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Genre Usage
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