Warm Audio WA-87 R2

Warm Audio WA-87 R2 – an authentic reproduction of a legendary late-1960s large-diaphragm FET condenser microphone, widely considered one of the greatest studio microphones ever designed. This Revision 2 model represents a significant upgrade over the original WA-87, featuring premium components and enhanced performance that brings it even closer to the vintage 87-style sound that shaped countless iconic recordings from Paul McCartney and David Bowie to Calvin Harris and Ed Sheeran.

WA-87 R2 delivers the smooth bass and midrange character of the vintage original while adding pristine top-end clarity that engineers have pursued for decades. The signature 7-10kHz presence boost provides a radio-friendly edge to lead vocals and any source that needs to stand out in the mix. Built with all-discrete premium circuitry featuring a NOS (New Old Stock) Fairchild transistor, high-bandwidth polystyrene and film capacitors from WIMA and Nichicon, and a custom-wound CineMag USA output transformer (CM-13113) with improved frequency response and increased output level compared to the original WA-87.

The WA-87-B-50V capsule is a faithful reproduction of the classic dual-backplate K87 capsule with four-wire termination, featuring a 6-micron thick, gold-sputtered NOS Mylar diaphragm sourced from a premium Australian supplier. The R2 features a redesigned nickel-plated brass body that is larger, heavier, and stronger than its predecessor, with a rounded head basket that creates additional space around the capsule for a more pleasing sonic signature. Three switchable polar patterns (cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8) provide versatility for any recording application, from intimate vocals to room ambience. The -10dB pad handles extremely loud sources without overloading internal electronics, while the 80Hz high-pass filter eliminates low-frequency rumble. Includes wooden storage case, shock mount, and hard mount. Requires 48V phantom power. Available in nickel or black finish.

KEY FEATURES

• Authentic reproduction of vintage late-1960s 87-style FET condenser microphone
• WA-87-B-50V capsule – faithful reproduction of classic dual-backplate K87 capsule
• 6-micron gold-sputtered NOS Mylar diaphragm from premium Australian supplier
• All-discrete premium circuitry with NOS Fairchild transistor
• High-bandwidth WIMA and Nichicon polystyrene/film capacitors
• Custom-wound CineMag USA output transformer (CM-13113)
• Improved frequency response and increased output level vs. original WA-87
• Nickel-plated brass body – larger, heavier, and stronger design
• Rounded head basket for additional capsule space and improved sonic signature
• Three switchable polar patterns: cardioid, omnidirectional, figure-8
• Signature 7-10kHz presence boost for clarity and definition
• Smooth bass and midrange with pristine top-end
• -10dB pad for recording loud sources
• 80Hz high-pass filter for low-frequency rumble reduction
• Exceptional versatility: vocals, drums, guitars, piano, brass, strings
• Available in nickel or black finish

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Type: Large-diaphragm FET condenser microphone
• Capsule: WA-87-B-50V – reproduction of classic K87 dual-backplate, four-wire termination
• Diaphragm: 6-micron thickness, 1-inch diameter, gold-sputtered membrane, NOS Mylar (PET film)
• Polar Patterns: Cardioid, omnidirectional, figure-8 (switchable)
• Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
• Output Impedance: 150Ω
• Maximum SPL: 125 dB SPL @ 1kHz, 0.5% THD (without pad)
• Maximum SPL with Pad: 132 dB SPL (with -10dB pad engaged)
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 82 dB (A-weighted)
• Self-Noise: 11 dB (A-weighted)
• Equivalent Noise: -117 dB
• High-Pass Filter: 80Hz (switchable)
• Pad: -10dB (switchable)
• Output Transformer: Custom-wound CineMag USA (CM-13113)
• Output Connector: 24k gold-plated 3-pin XLR (Pin 1 = GND, Pin 2 = +, Pin 3 = -)
• Power Requirement: 48V phantom power
• Body Material: Nickel-plated brass
• Dimensions: 10" (254mm) length × 2.36" (60mm) diameter
• Weight: 1.6 lbs (725g) microphone only
• Finish Options: Nickel or Black
• Included Accessories: Wooden storage case, shock mount, hard mount
• Optional Accessory: Flight case (available separately)