Warm Audio
WA-44
Best vintage tone for professional studio recordings.
Experience the classic sound of vintage recording with the Warm Audio WA-44 ribbon microphone. This meticulously crafted microphone faithfully reproduces the character of iconic studio ribbon mics, delivering a warm, rich, and sultry tone perfect for vocals and instruments. Its figure-of-eight polar pattern, custom CineMag USA transformer, and powerful neodymium magnet ensure a robust output and a smooth, classic sound profile. Built with boutique quality, the WA-44 offers a pronounced proximity effect and a tamed top end for a truly vintage recording experience.
$749.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
317
/ 565
#317 in Microphone Preamps
Price vs Category Average
-54%
Below average
Type
Studio Ribbon Microphone
/ Studio Ribbon Microphone
Who it's for
- Recording artists and producers desiring iconic, warm vocal and instrument sounds
- Project studio owners and engineers seeking premium tube sound without breaking the bank
- Discerning audio professionals who value robust construction and quality internal components
Who should skip it
- Engineers needing flexible polar patterns for varied studio recording applications
- Users prioritizing streamlined setups and minimal additional equipment
- Producers requiring a neutral, transparent, or contemporary microphone sound
Performance breakdown
Vintage Character
Captures the sultry, rich textures of legendary studio ribbon microphones perfectly.
Build Integrity
Boutique-level construction ensures long-term durability for demanding studio environments.
Output Strength
Neodymium magnet design provides a robust signal for a ribbon microphone.
Proximity Effect
Delivers that classic, intimate vocal warmth through pronounced low-end response.
High-Frequency Response
Tamed top end creates a smooth, fatigue-free sound for digital recording.
Off-Axis Rejection
Figure-eight pattern effectively isolates sources by minimizing unwanted side noise.
Key Specs
Type
Studio Ribbon Microphone
Polar Pattern
Figure-8
Frequency Response
20Hz - 20kHz
Max SPL
140 dB SPL
Output Impedance
270 Ohm
Dimensions
120 mm x 70 mm x 318 mm
Weight
0.28 kg
Diaphragm
2.5-micron thick aluminum ribbon
Features
- Faithful reproduction of legendary studio ribbon microphone
- Warm, vintage, sultry tones for vocals and instruments
- Custom CineMag USA transformer for classic sound
- Powerful neodymium magnet for strong output
- 2.5-micron thick aluminum ribbon
- Figure-of-eight polar pattern minimizes side noise
- Boutique quality construction for durability
- Pronounced proximity effect for vocal warmth
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the WA 44 for its exceptional build quality and authentic vintage sound. Many users find it delivers a rich, warm tone reminiscent of classic recordings, making it a valuable addition to any studio. Its robust construction inspires confidence, and the sonic character is frequently highlighted as a significant upgrade for its price point. The general consensus points to a high quality microphone offering substantial value.
Know before you buy
The WA-44 provides a classic, warm vintage sound characterized by a rich low-end and smooth, natural highs. It is particularly effective at taming harsh frequencies and adding weight to loud sound sources.
Yes, the WA-44 is built to handle loud sources with a maximum SPL of 140 dB. Its robust construction and figure-of-eight pattern make it a reliable choice for capturing high-energy instruments without distortion.
The figure-of-eight pattern captures sound equally from the front and back while rejecting sound from the sides. This is ideal for capturing two singers at once, recording duets, or isolating specific instruments in a room.
No, the WA-44 is a passive ribbon microphone and does not require phantom power. In fact, you should keep 48V phantom power turned off on your preamp or interface to prevent potential damage to the ribbon element.
The CineMag transformer is a key component in achieving the mic's signature vintage character. It helps shape the frequency response and provides the necessary impedance matching to ensure a full, professional-grade signal output.
While the 2.5-micron aluminum ribbon is precision-engineered for high-quality audio, it is sensitive to physical shock and direct blasts of air. Always use a pop filter for vocal recording and store the microphone in its provided case when not in use.
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Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$749