Warm Audio WA-87 R2 Condenser Microphone

Warm Audio's WA-87 multi-pattern condenser microphone raised eyebrows with its quality and authentic sonics, bringing an "87-style" condenser to a wider audience at an astounding price. The WA-87 R2 (Revision 2) ups the ante, bringing the vibe, performance and sound of the 1960s mic that served as inspiration even closer.

The WA-87 is based on the classic '60s circuit widely considered one of the finest studio microphones ever designed. Warm Audio spent countless hours honing in on the sound of the vintage version. The WA-87 R2 uses top-quality components like a NOS Fairchild transistor and high-bandwidth polystyrene and film capacitors from Wima. A redesigned Cinemag USA output transformer provides a slightly increased output level and improved frequency response. The R2 maintains the same capsule the WA-87 uses, which was designed to the exact specifications of those found in the vintage mics. The result is an incredibly accurate sonic replica of what is arguably the most widely used studio microphone in popular recording history.

Encased in a heavier, stronger and larger nickel-plated brass body, the WA-87 R2 has a new rounded head basket shape which adds additional space around the capsule for a more pleasing sonic signature. With authentic vintage warmth and a smooth detailed top end, Warm Audio believes this mic performs on par with microphones costing five times as much or more. As with the mic from which it takes its inspiration, the WA-87 R2 excels at recording virtually anything—vocals, drum overheads, guitars, piano, auxiliary percussion, brass, strings and more. Three polar patterns (cardioid, omni, and figure 8) make sure you’re covered for a wide variety of applications, and an 80Hz high pass filter reduces low frequency rumble if needed. The switchable -10dB pad comes in handy when you want to record extremely loud sources and not overload the internal electronics.