Warm Audio WA-47 Tube Condenser Microphone

The Warm Audio WA-47 Tube Condenser Microphone is a high-end offering from Warm Audio, designed to faithfully recreate the sound and feel of the legendary Neumann U47 tube microphone. The U47 is one of the most iconic and sought-after microphones in recording history, used on countless classic albums for vocals, drums, and instruments. Warm Audio’s goal with the WA-47 is to provide that coveted vintage tone at a price point accessible to more studios and musicians.

• Microphone Type: Tube Condenser. This means it employs a vacuum tube in its circuitry, which contributes to its characteristic warmth, harmonic richness, and smooth sound. Like all tube microphones, it requires an external power supply (included), which connects to the microphone via a special 7-pin cable and then to a standard wall outlet.
• Diaphragm: Features a custom reproduction of the vintage K47-style capsule (Warm Audio’s WA-47-B-80v model). This is a large, gold-sputtered, dual-plate, 6-micron Mylar diaphragm, meticulously engineered to match the original ’47 capsule’s design and sonic characteristics. The capsule is the heart of the microphone’s sound.
• Tube Type: The WA-47 uses a JJ Slovak 5751 vacuum tube. This specific tube is chosen for its low gain and low noise properties, which allows the sonic qualities of the capsule and transformer to shine through more prominently, contributing to a smooth, vintage-flavored tone.
• Output Transformer: A critical component for a true ’47 style sound, the WA-47 utilizes an American-made TAB-Funkenwerk (AMI) USA output transformer with large-core, imported German laminations. This transformer is renowned for providing the creamy smooth high end and a “larger-than-life” bottom end.
• Capacitors: The circuit employs high-quality capacitors including a polystyrene coupling capacitor for uncompressed high-end response, WIMA film capacitors, and an imported Solen French capacitor on its output.
• Multiple Polar Patterns: A key feature for versatility, offering 9 selectable patterns controlled via a switch on the external power supply:
  • Cardioid: Standard directional pattern, excellent for isolating vocals and instruments.
  • Omnidirectional: Captures sound equally from all directions, great for room ambiance or ensemble recording.
  • Figure-8 (Bidirectional): Picks up sound from the front and rear, ideal for duets or specific ambient miking techniques.
  • Plus 6 mixed patterns: These intermediate patterns offer even finer control over the microphone’s pickup, allowing for precise tailoring to the recording environment and source.
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz. This wide response ensures it captures the full sonic spectrum with detail. The sound profile aims for the U47’s signature warm lows, rich mids, and smooth, detailed highs.
• Max SPL (Sound Pressure Level): 140 dB SPL (<0.5% THD). This high SPL handling capability makes the WA-47 incredibly versatile, allowing it to capture very loud sources like kick drums, loud guitar amplifiers, and powerful vocals without distortion.
• Equivalent Noise Level (Self-Noise): 11 dBA (A-weighted). While tube microphones inherently have slightly higher self-noise than some FET condensers, 11 dBA is an excellent low noise figure for a tube mic, ensuring clean, professional-quality recordings.
• Dynamic Range: 130 dBA. This wide dynamic range allows the microphone to capture both very quiet nuances and loud transients with clarity.
• Connectivity: The microphone connects to its dedicated power supply unit via a premium 7-pin Gotham Audio GAC-7 cable (included). The power supply then has a standard 3-pin XLR output to connect to your audio interface or mixer.
• Build Quality: Features a heavy, nickel-plated brass body and headbasket, reflecting its premium construction and durability. It feels substantial and looks like a classic studio microphone.
• Included Accessories: The WA-47 comes as a complete package, including:
  • External Power Supply Unit (with voltage selector for 115v/230v)
  • 7-pin Gotham Audio GAC-7 cable (high-quality and crucial for optimal tube mic performance)
  • Wooden Microphone Box for safe storage
  • Vibration-reducing Shockmount
  • IEC power cable

Performance and Sound Quality:

• The Coveted ’47 Sound: The primary appeal of the WA-47 is its faithful rendition of the U47’s iconic sound. This is characterized by:
  • Warmth and Depth: Especially in the low-mids and mid-range, contributing to a rich, full-bodied sound.
  • Smooth Highs: A silky, non-harsh high end that makes it flattering for vocals and acoustic instruments, helping them sit well in a mix without being piercing.
  • Presence and Detail: It captures a natural presence that brings vocals and instruments forward in the mix, with excellent detail and articulation.
  • “Larger Than Life” Character: The tube and transformer combination adds a sonic texture and weight that makes sources sound bigger and more authoritative.
• Extreme Versatility: With its 9 polar patterns, high SPL handling, and classic tone, the WA-47 is a true workhorse microphone for almost any recording scenario:
  • Vocals: Often considered a “magic mic” for lead vocals, bringing out richness and clarity.
  • Acoustic Guitars: Captures warmth, woodiness, and string detail beautifully.
  • Electric Guitar & Bass Cabs: Its high SPL handling combined with its warm tube character makes it exceptional for miking loud amplifiers, adding depth and punch.
  • Drums: Fantastic for kick drum (especially with a foam pop filter), room mics, or mono overheads.
  • Pianos, Strings, Brass, Woodwinds: Excels at capturing the full range and nuances of these instruments.
• Professional Results: The WA-47 is designed to deliver professional-grade recordings that can compete with those made on much more expensive equipment.

Target Audience:

• Serious Home, Project, and Professional Studio Owners: Who are looking for a versatile, flagship tube condenser microphone to elevate their recordings.
• Vocalists and Musicians: Seeking a professional, classic, warm, and detailed sound for their voice and instruments.
• Engineers and Producers: Who desire the revered “47 sound” for a wide array of sources without the prohibitive cost and maintenance of a vintage unit.
• Anyone: Looking to add a truly high-end, characterful, and versatile tube microphone to their collection.