Warm Audio WA87 R2 – Large Diaphragm Transformer-Balanced Condenser Microphone (Black)

OVERVIEW

Premium Components • Elite Build Quality • Superior Sound

The Warm Audio WA87 R2 is a premium large-diaphragm FET condenser microphone that faithfully recreates the sound and character of one of the most revered studio microphones ever produced. Designed around an authentic K87-style dual-backplate capsule with gold-sputtered membranes and NOS Mylar film, this microphone delivers the smooth midrange, controlled low-end, and polished top-end detail that have defined countless classic vocal and instrument recordings for decades.

Each microphone features a USA-made CineMag output transformer and a premium NOS Fairchild transistor, along with ultra-premium WIMA and Nichicon capacitors to capture the rich harmonic character and natural presence associated with vintage 87-style microphones. The signature high-frequency lift around the 7–10kHz range helps vocals, acoustic instruments, guitar cabinets, and room recordings cut through mixes with clarity and articulation while maintaining a refined and balanced tone.

Built for professional studio environments, the WA87 R2 offers exceptional flexibility with selectable cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8 polar patterns, along with an 80Hz high-pass filter and a -10dB pad for increased headroom on louder sound sources. Hand-inspected in Austin, Texas, using premium components throughout, the WA87 R2 provides classic studio microphone performance with modern reliability and precise stereo consistency.

 

K87-Style Capsule

The K87-style capsule is an authentic reproduction of the original classic dual backplate (four-wire termination) K87 capsule found on vintage 87-style mics. This capsule captures incredible detail across the 20Hz – 20kHz frequency response and is known for delivering incredible high-end that is especially pleasing and equally renowned. The capsule inside the WA-87 R2 will quickly make this a favourite mic for lead vocals and much more.

 

 

 

 

-10dB Switch for Added Headroom

The -10 pad provides more headroom to record loud sources with the impressive detail of a large-diaphragm condenser.

 

 

 

 

 

 

3 Polar Patterns

Three polar patterns (omni, cardioid, and figure-8) give you a variety of options to choose how you want to capture sound and reject noise.

 

 

 

 

 

 

High-Pass Filter Switch

The switchable 80 Hz high-pass filter makes it easy to remove unruly bass noise from sources before you even hit record.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Anyone looking for a top-class large-diaphragm condenser microphone should put the R2 on their audition list, especially if you want a smooth and detailed midrange more than the artificial excitement of brighter models. – MusicTech

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

The Original Hitmaker

The 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 mics ever designed. Original 87s boast an artist roster that spans Paul McCartney & David Bowie, all the way to Calvin Harris & Ed Sheeran.

Legendary Sound for Vocals and Beyond

Like the original, the WA-87 R2 delivers noticeably smooth bass and mids while adding the pristine top end that engineers have chased for decades. The signature 7-10kHz bump adds a radio-friendly edge to lead vocals and any source that needs to stand out in a mix. Three polar patterns give you versatility for any application.

Applications

Vocals – Radio-Ready Vocals:

Up-front vocals with commanding presence and clear top-end.

Acoustic Guitar – Brilliance On Steel-Strings:

Clear, articulate tone on acoustic guitars.

Electric Guitar – Detailed Cab Tone:

Detail and present top-end for guitars that need to stand out.

Room Mics – Rich Room Sounds:

Capture the brilliance of cymbals, strings, and instruments in the room.

FEATURES

• Large-diaphragm transformer-balanced condenser microphone
• Authentic K87-style dual-backplate capsule inspired by vintage 87-style designs
• USA-made CineMag output transformer for rich analog character and balanced tone
• NOS Fairchild transistor for classic vintage-style sonic response
• Smooth low-end and midrange with polished, detailed top-end clarity
• Signature presence boost helps vocals and instruments stand out in a mix
• Three selectable polar patterns for versatile studio applications
• Switchable high-pass filter for reducing unwanted low-frequency rumble
• Switchable -10dB pad for recording louder sound sources with added headroom
• Ideal for vocals, acoustic guitars, guitar cabinets, room recordings, strings, and overheads
• Premium WIMA and Nichicon capacitors for high-quality signal transfer
• Hand-tested and inspected in Austin, Texas
• Black finish – also available in Nickel
• Includes shockmount, hard mount, and a protective wooden storage case
• Five-year manufacturer warranty

POLAR PATTERNS

TECHNICAL SPECS

Product Type: Large-Diaphragm FET Condenser Microphone

Switches:

• -10 dB Pad
• 80 Hz High-Pass Filter

Polar Patterns: 3

• Omnidirectional
• Cardioid
• Figure-8

Internal Components:

• Custom K87-Style Capsule with Gold-Sputtered Membrane & NOS Mylar (Pet Film) – a Faithful Reproduction of the Classic Dual Backplate (Four-Wire Termination) Capsule Found on Vintage 87-Style Mics
• 1 x NOS Fairchild Transistor
• Premium Capacitors
• Cinemag USA Output Transformer

SPL: .5% THD @ 125 dB (without Pad) | 132 dB with Pad

Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz

Noise: -117dB

Colour/Finish: Black

Included Accessories:

• 1 x Shockmount
• 1 x Hard Mount
• Protective Wooden Storage Case

Dimensions:

• Height/Length — 35.5cm (14”)
• Diameter — 5cm (2”)

Weight:

• Box with Full Contents — 9.3 kg (20.5 lbs)
• Mic Only — 1.36 kg (3 lbs)

Warranty: 5-Years

DOWNLOADS & SUPPORT

• User Manual
• Product Registration