Warm Audio

The new WA-MBA is a professional broadcast microphone boom for radio, television, studio and home use with a robust design. Thanks to easy-to-operate clamping hinges, it enables the microphone to be positioned securely in any position for the best possible sound quality. The internal cable management system allows invisible cable routing for a visually appealing workplace.

If there's one mic preamp that professional engineers of all ages around the world adore in equal measure and that has shaped the sound of countless rock and pop albums over the last 50 years like no other, it's definitely the 1073. The 1073 has been used massively in studio and live applications for decades and is still considered the "holy grail" of mic preamps today. The Warm Audio WA73 family offers one and two channel recreations of this classic British preamp (with & without EQ), all of which pay careful and humble homage to the original circuitry.The WA73 family of preamps are boutique preamps that can be very well categorised as studio and live workhorses at the same time. The classic 1073 circuit is known as a versatile tool that harmonises fantastically with all types of microphones, from condenser to dynamic and ribbon. The newly launched WA73 family is equally suitable for all types of microphones and sources such as vocals, acoustic and electric guitars, bass, drums, percussion, orchestra, keyboards, and even as a sound shaping tool to perform partial or full mixes. With 80 dB of gain, a fully discrete balanced signal path equipped with high quality Carnhill transformers and a versatile 3-band inductor EQ (on WA73-EQ and WA273-EQ products), there is no recording, mixing or engineering task that the WA73, WA73-EQ, WA273 and WA273-EQ can't handle and excite.Hand-wired, hand-assembled:The classic 1073 was hand-wired and so is the WA73 family. According to a number of audio gurus, part of the classic sound character of the 1073 is due to the hand-wired circuitry of the units. The entire WA73 preamp family (including the EQs) is authentically hand-wired and hand-assembled, including the PCB components, which are all assembled by hand.UK Custom Carnhill Transformer:1073 enthusiasts are unequivocal about the importance of components in classic circuits. A very common topic of conversation is the transformers. Various versions of transformers have been used in classic vintage equipment over the years. The most popular of these were the very first versions from Marinair Radar. Marinair Radar transformers are considered the first choice for 1073 preamps due to their sonic characteristics. Warm Audio worked closely with the renowned manufacturer Carnhill Transformers from Cambridgeshire, UK, to develop the most faithful possible replicas of these coveted transformers. These fantastic Carnhill transformers are used throughout the WA73 family. As a result, the WA73 family comes closer to the sound of the early vintage devices than any other modern 1073 preamp.Signal path and capacitors:An important part of classic British circuitry that is not often talked about is the different types of capacitors and output transistors that were used. In order to maintain the integrity of the original design, it became apparent in the development process that it was important to use tantalum and polystyrene capacitors in the signal path and certain output transistors that behave much more smoothly in the high gain settings than what is typically found in modern 1073 replicas.

The WA-251 was designed to provide a new generation of recording enthusiasts with a classic microphone design at an affordable price. We spent a lot of time listening through a variety of 251 microphones to determine what people loved about them (and why), how different components affected the sound, and how we could give the WA-251 a personality that pays homage to the vintage classic while standing on its own.The WA-251 is a large diaphragm tube microphone with output transformer, selectable polar pattern and a large condenser, based on the classic 251 used in numerous hit productions over the last 50+ years. The WA-251 is aimed equally at professional and home studios as well as live and broadcast applications and sounds great on vocals, acoustic and electric guitar and bass, drums, piano, strings, brass and woodwinds and a wide range of other sources.The 251 achieved its greatest popularity in the 1960s and is now recognised as one of the best condenser microphones of all time. The classic is still often used in professional recording studios today, but is now extremely rare and correspondingly expensive to buy.The capsule:The WA-251 uses a customised reproduction of the original CK12 capsule used in the original 251s - designed with a comparable hole pattern and frequency response. Our version of this capsule (model no. WA-12-B-60v) is carefully crafted by an Australian capsule manufacturer to vintage specifications. We are delighted to be able to offer such a great re-incarnation of the CK12 capsule, as it is the sonic centrepiece and most important part of the formula.The tube:We use a Slovakian JJ 12AY7 vacuum tube in the WA-251. We carefully compared a selection of tubes from three manufacturers and fell in love with the JJ 12AY7. The frequency response of the JJ tube and the way it blends into the circuit with a smooth, vintage sound convinced us.The transformer:The WA-251 is equipped with an American-made CineMag USA transformer. This transformer helps to preserve the existing top end and the HUGE bottom end that you would expect from a 251-style condenser microphone.The cable:One component of a tube microphone that is often overlooked is the 7-pin cable that connects the microphone to the preamplifier. The manufacturer has learnt a lot about 7-pin cables and the drastic influence of shielding and cable cross-section on the sound of a tube microphone during the intensive listening tests of the WA-251 and other microphones. Warm Audio has chosen Gotham Audio from Switzerland as its partner. The meticulously crafted 7-pin high-end GAC-7 cable is used for the WA-251. The use of this cable enhances the top-end presence and the overall impression of the sound image, especially in the stereo mix, by reducing phase shifts and parasitic effects that often occur in cheap cables. Gotham cabling is quite expensive, as it certainly belongs to the higher quality class, and should therefore not simply be seen as a small addition to the overall WA-251 package.The capacitors:The WA-251 uses polystyrene coupling capacitors, wima film capacitors and a French solenoid capacitor in the output.

The Warm Audio WA-412 offers 4 channels of classic American console sound in a slim 1U housing. The microphone and instrument preamplifier delivers big, expressive lows and open, silky highs. Equipped with 100% discrete 6pin operational amplifiers and custom Altran USA transformers in the inputs and outputs, the WA-412 offers an incredibly good price/performance ratio and delivers everything the ear desires.More features:The WA-412 offers all the features that a user would expect from the WA-412 model and more. In addition to the classic functions and controls such as 48V phantom power switch, phase reverse switch, mic/line switch and a -20dB pad, the WA-412 has a TONE switch on each channel, which can be used to switch the impedance from 150Ohm to 600Ohm, and an output trim, which enables creative work with gain and saturation.Better components:Each channel is equipped with a 100% discrete 6-pin opamp, which is placed on a socket and can be replaced if necessary. Discrete opamp circuits are known for their high headroom and low distortion. Furthermore, specially wound Altran transformers - made in the USA - are used in the inputs and outputs, which are responsible for the clear and open character of the WA-412.The careful selection of high-quality components has made the WA-412 a real workhorse that delivers first-class quality and always gives the signal a touch of vintage console magic.

The Warm Audio Fen-tone™ is inspired by a classic ribbon microphone from the 1950s, built with improved, modern components to deliver iconic sounds. Like B&O's original design, the Warm Audio Fen-tone has a compact, pencil-like design with vented sides that can be easily placed in tight recording situations. Unlike the original, the Fen-tone features modern upgrades such as a custom Japanese ribbon, a neodymium magnet and a CineMag USA transformer to deliver the iconic ribbon sounds popular in contemporary music on electric guitars, overheads, wind instruments and many other instruments. Fen-tone also features a pure analogue 26 dB JFET in-line preamp that enables active use - a key advantage for direct use of the mic with low-power audio interface preamps.

Over Drive Disorder Pedal:The ODD Box V1 (Over Drive Disorder) from Warm Audio is inspired by a legendary OD pedal with a "cranked amp" sound. Based on the "V1" model of the original, the ODD Box V1 offers tonal versatility and is perfect for "boosting", "breakup" or "high gain" sounds. The op-amp based circuit delivers all the sounds of a rich tube amplifier and serves as inspiration for the sound aesthetics of the pedal. True to this idea, the ODD Box V1 delivers a massive and powerful sound that is appreciated by many musicians such as Billy Gibbons, Mark Hoppus, Eric Johnson, J Mascis, Paul Gilbert and many others.UK/US switch:The "UK" setting adds distortion, boosts the upper mids and increases the volume - giving this setting a more "British" amplifier sound. The "US" setting reduces the saturation in the gain stage, making the ODD Box V1 more like a "boost" and better suited to traditional "American" amplifier sounds.Built like an iconic boutique OD:To deliver the sound favoured by the artist, the ODD Box V1 is built with high-quality components, including a TLO82CP op amp, 2N7000 transistors and hand-picked capacitors and resistors.

Whether guitar, bass, keyboards or any other stringed instrument: the conversion of instrument signals into microphone signals should not affect the sound. This is where WarmAudio comes in and presents DI boxes that are designed for maximum sound integrity. From the individually wound CineMag USA transformer to the robust metal knob and switches. Even after long cable runs, the sound is warm and rich. This is made possible by the use of high-quality, discrete components. The robust aluminium housing and all switches, knobs and connectors used are designed for daily use in the studio or on stage and can withstand even the heaviest loads.The WarmAudio DI is available in passive and active versions. The active version is ideal for all low-level instruments with passive pickups. Clever detail: if there is no supply voltage (48v phantom power, 2*9V block), it can also be operated passively. The passive version, on the other hand, is ideal for keyboards and other high-level sources, but also harmonises very well with passive pickups thanks to its extremely wide transmission range.As a practical novelty, both devices have an adjustable pad. In the range from -3dB to -30dB, the level can be optimally adjusted to the instrument used and annoying distortions are avoided.No loadbox function, speaker/loadbox must be connected to the "Thru" socket for use on the speaker out of an amp.

A classic - reissued:The WA-14 is based on the classic 414 condenser microphone, which has been used on countless hits and continues to enjoy unrestricted popularity. Warm Audio has based the WA-14 on the classic circuit design of the original, including the coveted CK12 capsule and a premium CineMag USA transformer. Whether for vocals, aggressive guitars or on hard percussive instruments, the WA-14 always knows how to impress and delivers the sound of the classic 414 microphone that sound engineers around the world appreciate and love.High-quality components make a better microphone:With the custom transformer from CineMag USA, the 100% discrete circuit design with high-quality components and the high-quality LK-12-B-60V double-diaphragm capsule, Warm Audio has succeeded in creating another replica of a classic microphone that is second to none.

The 1967 original became one of the most sought-after and widely used studio microphones of its time, recording a huge collection of some of the most memorable songs of the last 50 years - from the Beatles, Led Zeppelin and Temptations to Nirvana.The original microphones are still highly sought after, but flawless examples often command upwards of $8000, putting them out of reach for most studios.Fortunately, Warm Audio has now changed this scenario with the release of the new WA-67! The WA-67 is based on an EF86 pentode tube and has the same smooth and creamy sound as the original. It enhances all signals and is fast becoming the first choice for vocals, guitars, drum toms and overheads, piano, brass and strings.To do justice to the characteristics of the specially manufactured capsule and the EF86 tube, Warm Audio has equipped the circuit with boutique components of the highest quality. Polystyrene capacitors with oversized capacitance, polypropylene capacitors from Wima and a large output capacitor from Solen are used. The custom-built large-core transformer from Lundahl plays an important role in the WA-67's butter-soft high frequencies and huge three-dimensional sound.

Warm Audio presented the predecessor model WA-87 back in 2016 and made the coveted vintage sound of the original affordable for everyone. Now the Texan manufacturer has consistently updated the model based on the experience gained to exceed expectations once again.The WA-87 R2 (Revision 2) therefore features a discrete circuit design with premium components such as new-old-stock Fairchild transistors, WIMA and Nichicon capacitors and is complemented by an improved CineMag USA output transformer. The capsule used is an in-house development precisely modelled on the classic double-diaphragm capsule with a gold-vaporised 6 µm NOS Mylar diaphragm.Thanks to authentic vintage warmth and a soft, detailed top end, the WA-87 R2 comes even closer to the ever-popular sound and vibe of the original classic from the swinging sixties.

Warm Audio presented the predecessor model WA-87 back in 2016 and made the coveted vintage sound of the original affordable for everyone. Now the Texan manufacturer has consistently updated the model based on the experience gained to exceed expectations once again.The WA-87 R2 (Revision 2) therefore features a discrete circuit design with premium components such as new-old-stock Fairchild transistors, WIMA and Nichicon capacitors and is complemented by an improved CineMag USA output transformer. The capsule used is an in-house development precisely modelled on the classic double-diaphragm capsule with a gold-vaporised 6 µm NOS Mylar diaphragm.Thanks to authentic vintage warmth and a soft, detailed top end, the WA-87 R2 comes even closer to the ever-popular sound and vibe of the original classic from the swinging sixties.

If there's one mic preamp that professional engineers of all ages around the world adore in equal measure and that has shaped the sound of countless rock and pop albums over the last 50 years like no other, it's definitely the 1073. The 1073 has been used massively in studio and live applications for decades and is still considered the "holy grail" of mic preamps today. The Warm Audio WA73 family offers one and two channel recreations of this classic British preamp (with & without EQ), all of which pay careful and humble homage to the original circuitry.The WA73 family of preamps are boutique preamps that can be very well categorised as studio and live workhorses at the same time. The classic 1073 circuit is known as a versatile tool that harmonises fantastically with all types of microphones, from condenser to dynamic and ribbon. The newly launched WA73 family is equally suitable for all types of microphones and sources such as vocals, acoustic and electric guitars, bass, drums, percussion, orchestra, keyboards, and even as a sound shaping tool to perform partial or full mixes. With 80 dB of gain, a fully discrete balanced signal path equipped with high quality Carnhill transformers and a versatile 3-band inductor EQ (on WA73-EQ and WA273-EQ products), there is no recording, mixing or engineering task that the WA73, WA73-EQ, WA273 and WA273-EQ can't handle and excite.Hand-wired, hand-assembled:The classic 1073 was hand-wired and so is the WA73 family. According to a number of audio gurus, part of the classic sound character of the 1073 is due to the hand-wired circuitry of the units. The entire WA73 preamp family (including the EQs) is authentically hand-wired and hand-assembled, including the PCB components, which are all assembled by hand.UK Custom Carnhill Transformer:1073 enthusiasts are unequivocal about the importance of components in classic circuits. A very common topic of conversation is the transformers. Various versions of transformers have been used in classic vintage equipment over the years. The most popular of these were the very first versions from Marinair Radar. Marinair Radar transformers are considered the first choice for 1073 preamps due to their sonic characteristics. Warm Audio worked closely with the renowned manufacturer Carnhill Transformers from Cambridgeshire, UK, to develop the most faithful possible replicas of these coveted transformers. These fantastic Carnhill transformers are used throughout the WA73 family. As a result, the WA73 family comes closer to the sound of the early vintage devices than any other modern 1073 preamp.Signal path and capacitors:An important part of classic British circuitry that is not often talked about is the different types of capacitors and output transistors that were used. To maintain the integrity of the original design, it became apparent in the development process that it was important to use tantalum and polystyrene capacitors in the signal path and certain output transistors that behave much more smoothly in the high gain settings than what is typically found in modern 1073 replicas.UK Blore Edwards EQ switch:A great sounding 1073 circuit should also be as reliable as it sounds. The complex dual-concentric potentiometers in the EQ sections of the WA73-EQ and WA273-EQ are made in the UK by Blore Edwards, who manufacture switches and pots to military specifications. The use of Blore Edwards components is exceptional for 1073-style preamps/EQs in this price range and once again demonstrates the importance Warm Audio places on the high quality of its affordable products.

With the WA-8000, Warm Audio presents a tube condenser microphone for sophisticated vocal recordings. Inspired by a design from the early 1990s, the WA-8000 lives up to the sonic heritage that still inspires die-hard fans today. The mids are natural, open and extremely clear, perfect for capturing every detail of a vocal performance. The WA-8000 is designed to the exact specifications of the original and offers the true sound of modern R&B and hip-hop at an attractive price.