A-Designs HM2 Compressor Nail – Stereo Tube Compressor for Tracking, Mixing & Mastering
The A-Designs HM2 Compressor Nail is a dual-channel, hybrid tube/solid-state compressor designed for precision, punch, and musical transparency across the entire signal chain.
Whether used on the mix bus, for mastering, or during tracking, the HM2 Nail delivers exceptional control and sonic integrity — from subtle glue to rich, analog depth and warmth.
Its design combines tube coloration with solid-state accuracy, offering effortless dynamics shaping that remains smooth and musical even under heavy compression.
Key Features
- Stereo tube compressor/limiter for mastering, mixing, and tracking applications.
- Hybrid design – combines Class A discrete solid-state circuits with a tube output stage.
- Dual-mono or linked stereo operation for versatile studio integration.
- Auto and Manual Attack/Release modes for precision or program-dependent response.
- Threshold, Ratio, Attack, Release, Mix, and Gain controls for detailed dynamic shaping.
- Parallel compression (Mix knob) allows seamless blending of dry and compressed signals.
- Hard/Soft Knee selector for switching between aggressive and transparent behavior.
- LED gain reduction meters with fast, accurate response.
- Transformer-balanced I/O with massive headroom and low noise.
- Hand-built in the USA for world-class reliability and sonic excellence.
Applications
- Mix Bus: Add analog warmth, depth, and glue with subtle tube harmonics.
- Mastering: Achieve cohesive loudness and dynamic control with transparency.
- Vocals & Instruments: Maintain clarity and punch without harshness.
- Tracking: Use light compression to enhance presence and tonal richness at the source.
Technical Specifications
| Unit Type | Stereo Tube Compressor / Limiter |
|---|---|
| Circuit Type | Hybrid solid-state and tube design, Class A |
| Channels | Dual mono or stereo link |
| Controls | Threshold, Ratio, Attack, Release, Mix (Parallel), Gain, Hard/Soft Knee, Auto Mode |
| Ratio | Variable 1.5:1 to 20:1 |
| Attack Time | 0.1 – 100 ms (manual) or program-dependent (auto) |
| Release Time | 50 ms – 3 s (manual) or program-dependent (auto) |
| Frequency Response | 20 Hz – 20 kHz ±0.5 dB |
| THD + N | < 0.05% typical (1 kHz @ +4 dBu) |
| Input/Output | Balanced XLR (transformer-coupled) |
| Power Supply | Internal universal power supply (100–240V AC) |
| Form Factor | 2U rackmount chassis |
| Weight | Approx. 7.3 kg |
| Origin | Hand-built in the USA by A-Designs Audio |
Why Choose the A-Designs HM2 Nail?
The A-Designs HM2 Nail has earned its reputation as one of the most musical and flexible stereo compressors in modern production.
It offers the sonic warmth of tubes with the precision of discrete solid-state circuitry, making it equally at home in tracking, mixing, and mastering workflows.
From subtle dynamic control to bold compression character, the Nail provides depth, cohesion, and analog magic that make every mix sound finished and professional.