Behringer HM300 Heavy Metal Distortion Pedal - Pink

Level the house with the most extreme and sought-after hard rock/heavy metal distortion of the '80...

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eBayHeavy Metal Distortion Guitar Effects Pedal 80s HM-300 Style Pink Ultra High
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Product Information

Full details

This guide is for guitarists seeking the extreme, sought-after hard rock and heavy metal distortion tones of the 1980s. The Behringer HM300 offers ultra-high gain circuitry for thick, obscene distortion with endless sustain, enabling iconic metal sounds. A potential caveat is its intense nature, which may require careful EQ and gain management for optimal use in various settings.

All features

ColourPink
BrandBehringer

Extended Product Information

FAQs

What kind of distortion does the HM300 produce?

The HM300 is designed to deliver extreme, high-gain distortion reminiscent of the '80s hard rock and heavy metal era, characterized by thick, saturated tones and significant sustain.

Can I power the HM300 with a standard power supply?

Yes, the HM300 can be powered by a standard 9-volt DC power supply with a center-negative plug (like the BEHRINGER PSU-SB). A 9-volt battery can also be used.

How do I adjust the tone of the distortion?

You can shape the tone using the dedicated "Distortion," "Level," "Low," and "High" controls. The "Low" and "High" knobs provide a 2-band EQ to fine-tune the bass and treble frequencies.

Is this pedal suitable for genres other than metal?

While optimized for metal, its extreme gain can be dialed back for heavier hard rock or punk tones. However, it is less suited for blues, classic rock, or genres requiring milder overdrive.

What is the 'sustain' feature?

The ultra-high gain circuitry provides extended note decay, meaning when you play a note, it rings out for a long time before fading, which is ideal for lead guitar playing.

How do I know when the battery needs replacing?

The Status LED will dim or flicker when the 9-volt battery is low, indicating it's time for a replacement.

Does the pedal affect my clean tone when bypassed?

No, the HM300 features true bypass circuitry, meaning your original guitar signal remains unaffected when the pedal is switched off.

Troubleshooting

No sound when the pedal is engaged.

Check that the instrument cables are securely plugged into both the guitar and the amplifier. Ensure the 9V battery is installed correctly or that the external power supply is connected and functioning. Verify the effect is switched on (Status LED should be lit).

Excessive noise or hum.

Reduce the "Distortion" knob. Ensure that the "Level" is not set too high. Try a different power supply or a fresh 9V battery. Keep audio cables away from power cables. Check if your guitar's single-coil pickups are causing interference and consider using the pedal with humbuckers.

Tone is too muddy or too thin.

Adjust the "Low" and "High" EQ controls. For muddiness, reduce the "Low" control. For a thinner tone, increase the "High" control or decrease the "Low" control. Ensure the "Distortion" and "Level" settings are appropriate for your desired sound.

Volume drop when effect is bypassed.

This pedal features true bypass, meaning the signal passes directly through when off. If you experience a significant volume loss, check your cable lengths and connections, or consider using a buffer pedal before or after the HM300.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Achieves authentic '80s hard rock and heavy metal distortion.
  • Offers extensive gain and sustain for extreme sounds.
  • Provides essential EQ controls for detailed tone shaping.
  • Robust construction ensures long-term reliability.
  • Affordable entry into high-gain distortion pedals.

Cons

  • Can be overly aggressive or noisy if not dialed in carefully.
  • EQ might require significant adjustment to fit different rigs.
  • Limited to primarily distortion sounds, lacks versatility in other effects.
  • Requires external power supply or 9V battery (not included).

Setup, Compatibility & Care

Setup:

  1. Connect your guitar to the "Input" jack using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable.
  2. Connect your amplifier to the "Output" jack using another 1/4-inch instrument cable.
  3. Power the pedal using a 9-volt battery (inserted into the compartment on the underside) or a compatible 9V DC power supply (center negative, like the BEHRINGER PSU-SB, not included).

Compatibility:

The HM300 is compatible with virtually all electric guitars and amplifiers. It is designed to work well with both solid-state and tube amplifiers, whether they are clean or have some inherent overdrive.

Care:

  • Keep the pedal away from excessive moisture and extreme temperatures.
  • After use, disconnect any power source and cables.
  • Clean the exterior with a dry or slightly damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners.
  • Periodically check the battery and replace it when the Status LED becomes dim or flickers.
  • Avoid dropping or subjecting the pedal to rough handling.

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