Boss HM-2W Heavy Metal Waza

Produced between 1983 and 1991, the BOSS HM-2 Heavy Metal is a true legend in the history of distortion pedals. Its distinctive “chainsaw” sound with all controls at maximum is the unmistakable voice of Swedish death metal, while its slightly more subtle settings can be heard in mainstream and shoegaze tracks. Hardcore fans of the HM-2 have been requesting it for years, and now this iconic pedal is reborn three decades later in a special Waza Craft edition. The HM-2W offers the authentic analog sound of the original in all its glory, plus a host of modern enhancements to elevate its performance.

When it was introduced in 1983, the HM-2 was one of the first “amp in a box” pedals, utilizing an innovative BOSS circuit to replicate the sound of British stack amplifiers from the early '80s—very successful in a rapidly expanding genre like heavy metal. As its production cycle neared its end, pioneering Swedish death metal bands adopted the HM-2 for its primary guitar tones, and a new generation of musicians took great interest in its aggressively distinctive voice and well-defined midrange. The pedal's enormous influence and popularity led to constant requests to BOSS for a reissue, and we are now pleased to announce the HM-2W to dedicated fans worldwide.

Standard Mode

In Standard mode, the HM-2W delivers the sound and response of the original HM-2 with absolute authenticity. Additionally, modern improvements have been incorporated without affecting the core sound, such as reduced noise floor and an increased maximum level by 3 dB. With the premium Waza Craft buffer, the sound improves when the pedal is in Bypass mode. With all controls at maximum, you get the quintessential Swedish death metal tone, and the sensitive distortion and tone controls allow you to craft a wide range of sounds for other styles.

Custom Mode

The HM-2W's Custom mode offers a similar tonal character to Standard mode but pushes the boundaries even further. The gain stage is more powerful and includes a higher proportion of fundamental guitar tone, enhancing attack and edge. Additionally, the bass and mid-high frequencies have been fine-tuned to produce a rounder, more defined sound.

About Roland and Boss

Boss is a manufacturer of effects pedals for electric guitar and bass. It is a division of Roland Corporation, a Japanese company specializing in musical equipment and accessories. For many years, Boss has produced a range of guitar effect products, including “compact” (single-pedal) and “twin” (dual-pedal) effects, multi-effects units, electronic tuners, and pedalboards. Recently, they have expanded their product line to include Digital Studios, Rhythm Machines, and other electronic gear.