Its acclaimed compressors and preamps disrupted the price/performance ratio of professional audio. When Warm Audio turned its attention to microphones with the WA-87, they set the bar high: one of the most iconic large-diaphragm, multi-pattern FET condenser microphones in history. To say they succeeded would be an understatement: the original WA-87 was a bestseller. Now, with the WA87 R2, Warm Audio has made its modern classic better than ever. Featuring a sleek new design with a rounded grille, optimized metallurgy and performance enhancements that include a genuine Cinemag transformer; the Warm Audio WA87 R2 is a workhorse microphone that deserves a place in your microphone closet.

Affordable modern incarnation of a legendary microphone

Flash back to any top recording studio in the 1970s. You'll see the venerable '87 everywhere. In toms, overheads, guitar cabs, brass, congas, vocals — you name it. We know that vintage has a warmer, more indulgent sound character. It's these circuit designs — dating back half a century — that Warm Audio followed closely for the WA87 R2. Stellar performance, top-notch parts, and incredible value: that's the Warm formula—and the WA87 R2 nails it.

What can the WA87 R2 do for you?

Every studio needs at least one pair of high-quality large-diaphragm condenser microphones, and the Warm Audio WA87 R2 is designed after a legendary one. You can use the WA87 R2 on anything — with world-class results. It's great for vocals. It makes the drums sound huge. It's a must-have for adding a little space to complement a nearby dynamic or ribbon in a guitar cabinet. It's the ideal choice for any acoustic instrument — strings, brass, woodwind or percussion. We even used it on the kick drum (where the 10dB pad comes in handy)! It is equipped with an 80Hz high-pass filter that is useful in eliminating mud and low-end noise. And its three polar patterns further enhance this microphone's already impressive versatility.

Explore the sonic possibilities

The WA87 R2's three selectable polar patterns—cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8—offer immense flexibility when it comes to exploring the sonic possibilities offered by different recording techniques. The Figure-8 (bi-directional) is perfect for capturing head-to-head recordings, like two background singers on one microphone. This pattern also features aggressive lateral rejection, making it a useful option for miking backline amplifiers and speaker cabinets. With two of these excellent microphones, you can implement stereo techniques such as spaced pair (A/B), XY (including Blumlein), ORTF matrix, and mid-side (MS). You can even mic an entire symphony orchestra and the hall environment you're in with just three judiciously positioned WA87 R2 microphones set to omni.

Quality components make a big difference

Warm Audio doesn't skimp on components, but they order parts and assemble them in quantity, which keeps costs low and provides incredible value. The WA87 R2 is assembled with premium, fully discrete components such as NOS Fairchild transistors, WIMA/Nichicon capacitors, and a genuine US-made Cinemag output transformer. The microphone also features a custom reproduction of the renowned K-87 dual diaphragm/dual backplate capsule used in the vintage '87s. Premium parts and meticulous design deliver a superior-sounding microphone—one that doesn't cost a fortune. Try the WA87 R2 in your studio and you'll hear what we're talking about.

Characteristics

• 3 selectable polar patterns: cardioid, omnidirectional and figure 8;
• Designed after a classic studio standard large diaphragm FET condenser microphone;
• Incorporates a faithful reproduction of the original vintage 87 style circuit;
• Vintage K87 Double Backplate WA87-B-50V Capsule Reproduction;
• Exceptional build quality with premium, completely discreet components;
• NOS Fairchild transistors and WIMA/Nichicon capacitors;
• Cinemag USA custom output transformer;
• Nickel-plated brass body; 10dB cushion; 80 Hz high-pass filter;
• Diaphragm: 6 micron, 1 inch gold-plated membrane;
• Frequency response from 20kHz to 20kHz; -117dB noise;
• SPL (0.5% THD): 132dB (pad on), 125dB (pad off);
• 24k gold-plated 3-pin XLR (150 ohms);
• Includes shock mount, rigid mount and wooden storage box.
• Also available in black. If you want this option, contact us.

Specifications