Warm Audio
Warm Audio WA-87 R2 Studio Condenser Microphone
Best professional sound for value conscious studio producers.
The Warm Audio WA-87 R2 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone that builds upon the legacy of its predecessor, offering an even closer sonic reproduction of a classic 60s studio microphone. It features premium components like a NOS Fairchild transistor and custom Cinemag USA output transformer, delivering authentic vintage warmth and a smooth, detailed top end. With three switchable polar patterns (cardioid, omni, and figure 8), an 80 Hz high-pass filter, and a -10 dB pad, the WA-87 R2 is exceptionally versatile for recording vocals, instruments, and more. Its updated design includes a heavier, nickel-plated brass body and a rounded head basket for improved acoustics, making it a go-to microphone for any studio.
$699.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
269
/ 3337
#269 in Microphones
Price vs Category Average
+38%
Above average
Package Contents
872
/ WA- R, wooden storage case, hard mount, and shock mount
Who it's for
- Recording artists desiring a classic, versatile vocal and instrument tone.
- Project studio owners needing a flexible, multi-purpose recording solution.
- Budget-aware producers seeking high-quality, durable studio equipment.
Who should skip it
- Audio purists expecting an identical sonic match to the original.
- Entry-level users with basic audio interfaces and limited budgets.
- Mobile engineers prioritizing lightweight, easily transportable recording gear.
Performance breakdown
Sonic Authenticity
Captures the classic vintage character with impressive accuracy and depth.
Build Quality
Nickel-plated brass construction feels rugged and built for professional studio longevity.
Versatility
Three polar patterns handle everything from intimate vocals to complex room miking.
Component Quality
Premium Cinemag transformer and NOS transistors elevate the signal chain performance.
Frequency Response
Delivers a smooth, detailed top end that sits perfectly in any mix.
Ease of Integration
Standard analog connectivity makes it a seamless addition to any interface setup.
Key Specs
Package Contents
WA-87 R2, wooden storage case, hard mount, and shock mount
Unit Weight
6 lb
Tube or Solid State
Solid State
Capsule Type
WA-87-B-50V (K87 reproduction)
Transducer Type
Condenser
Polar Pattern
Bi-Directional / Figure-Eight, Cardioid, Omni-Directional
Number of Microphones
Single Microphone
Frequency Range
20 Hz - 20 kHz
Features
- Faithful reproduction of vintage 87-style circuit
- Premium discrete components including NOS Fairchild transistor
- Custom Cinemag USA output transformer for improved performance
- WA-87-B-50V capsule, a K87 reproduction
- Versatile with 3 polar patterns
- Includes high-pass filter and -10 dB pad
- Updated nickel-plated brass body with rounded head basket
- Authentic vintage warmth and detailed top end
What customers say
Customers consistently praise this microphone for its exceptional sound quality, often noting its rich, detailed capture across various sources. Many reviewers highlight its remarkable value, offering a professional studio sound without the premium price tag. Users appreciate its robust build and reliable performance, making it a trusted tool for both home studios and professional environments. The consensus points to a highly capable microphone that delivers impressive results, exceeding expectations for its price point.
Know before you buy
The R2 features an updated, heavier nickel-plated brass body and a rounded head basket designed to improve acoustic performance. It also refines the circuit for an even closer sonic reproduction of the classic vintage 87-style microphone.
Yes. With the -10 dB pad engaged, the WA-87 R2 can handle sound pressure levels up to 132 dB, making it capable of capturing louder instruments without distortion.
The WA-87 R2 offers three switchable polar patterns: cardioid, omni-directional, and figure-eight. This versatility allows you to adapt the microphone for everything from solo vocal tracking to room ambiance or duet recordings.
No, this is a solid-state condenser microphone. It requires standard 48V phantom power from your audio interface or preamp to operate.
The 80 Hz high-pass filter helps reduce low-end rumble, proximity effect, and unwanted mechanical noise. It is particularly useful when recording vocals or acoustic instruments to keep the mix clean.
The package comes with a wooden storage case, a hard mount, and a shock mount to help isolate the microphone from vibrations during recording.
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