Warm Audio WA-87 R2 FET Condenser Microphone

Description

The Original Hitmaker
The Warm Audio WA-87 R2 is an authentic reproduction of a truly iconic mic from the late-60s that is widely considered to be one of the greatest studio microphones ever designed. The original hitmaker and most popular studio lead vocal microphone of all time, the original boasts an artist roster that spans Paul McCartney and David Bowie all the way to Calvin Harris and Ed Sheeran. Just like the coveted originals built from the late 60’s to early 70’s, the WA-87 R2 delivers the unmistakably smooth bass and midrange while adding the pristine top end that engineers have chased for decades.

True to the Legacy. True to the Sound
To bring this iconic sound to life, the WA-87 R2 uses top-quality components like a NOS Fairchild transistor and high-bandwidth polystyrene and film capacitors from Wima. The centerpiece of the WA-87 R2 is a custom-wound Cinemag USA output transformer. Our meticulous R&D process allowed us to dial in a true-to-original output level and frequency response that matches performance expectations across world-class recording facilities. Our capsule is designed to the exact specifications of the original K87-style unit found in the best sounding vintage mics from 1968-1972. The result is an accurate sonic replica of arguably the widest-used studio microphone in popular recording history.

Legendary Sound for Vocals and Beyond
Just like the vintage microphone, the WA-87 R2 excels at recording anything you put in front of it. The signature 7-10kHz bump adds that pristine, radio-friendly edge to lead vocals and any source that need to stand out in a professional mix. Three polar patterns (cardioid, omni, and figure 8) gives you the versatility and flexibility for any application you encounter in the professional or home studio. The WA-87 R2 captures acoustic guitar, guitar cabinets, and drum overheads with the legendary pristine detail found in the original. The 80Hz high pass filter reduces low-frequency rumble to save you from otherwise inevitable EQ and mixing headaches. The switchable -10dB pad is crucial for when you want to record extremely loud sources without overloading the internal electronics.

WA-87 R2: Updated And Upgraded
In 2016, we at Warm Audio introduced one of the most talked-about 87-style FET condenser microphones in the industry. Since that release, we took everything we learned about recreating vintage microphones to bring it even closer to the sound, vibe, and performance of the original 60s classic. Our obsession with perfection drove us to continue research and develop the WA-87 concept. The result: The WA-87 R2 released in 2021. The WA-87 R2 delivers the most true sound of late-60s FET condenser innovation. Time machine not required.

Premium Components, Elite Build Quality, Superior Sound

WA-87-B-50V Capsule
The WA-87-B-50V capsule is a reproduction of the classic dual backplate (four-wire termination) k87 capsule found in the original. This capsule captures incredible detail across the 20Hz – 20kHz frequency response. With an especially pleasing and equally renowned high-end, the capsule inside the WA-87 R2 will quickly make this a favorite mic on lead vocals and much more.

American-Made Transformer From CineMag
The history of CineMag transformers goes all the way back to the 1940’s with connections to some of the most sought-after audio equipment of the last century. Like all CineMag transformers, the unit in the WA-87 R2 is American-made and built to exacting standards. The harmonic coloration provided by the transformer gives the WA-87 R2 true analog excellence.

NOS Fairchild Transistors & Premium Capacitors
The WA-87-B-50V capsule is a reproduction of the classic dual backplate (four-wire termination) k87 capsule found in the original. This capsule captures incredible detail across the 20Hz – 20kHz frequency response. With an especially pleasing and equally renowned high-end, the capsule inside the WA-87 R2 will quickly make this a favorite mic on lead vocals and much more.

Authentic Appearance & Elite Build Quality
The WA-87 R2 is encased in an ultra-durable nickel-plated brass body with an updated headbasket shape adding additional space around the capsule. Every single WA-87 R2 is meticulously hand-inspected at Warm HQ in Austin,TX by real musicians and engineers with passion for superior sound.

Specifications:

* Large diaphragm studio condenser microphone, with a faithful reproduction of the original vintage 87-style circuit
* ALL DISCRETE PREMIUM COMPONENTS, INCLUDING A NOS FAIRCHILD TRANSISTOR AND WIMA/NICHICON CAPACITORS
* Custom Cinemag USA output transformer
* WA-87-B-50V capsule—reproduction of classic dual backplate (four-wire termination) K87 capsule
* Nickel-plated brass body
* Three polar patterns: cardioid, figure-of-eight, and omnidirectional
*  -10dB pad and 80Hz high pass filter
* Frequency response: 20Hz – 20kHz
* SPL: .5% THD @ 125dB (without pad), 132dB
* Diaphragm: 6-micron thickness, gold-sputtered membrane, NOS mylar (PET film)
* Noise: -117dB
* Included accessories: wooden storage case, hard mount, and shock mount. (Optional flight case available)
* Weight (Fully Boxed): 6.5 lbs / 3 kg
* Color: available in nickel or black finish