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Warm Audio WA-251 Tube Condenser Microphone
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SKU: WA251
Testimonials:
"We used a pair of WA-251s for drum overhead. They’ve provided a huge upgrade over the previous mics we were using. We replaced the ribbons we’ve been using with these guys, raised them up a bit higher and they are slamming." Jimmy Eat World
Here's What Warm Audio Say About the WA-251
Sound Like A Legend
The WA-251 was created to offer a classic microphone design to a new generation of recording artists at an affordable price. We spent a great deal of time listening to different ‘251 microphones to determine what people liked about them and why, how various styles of components impact the tone, and how to give the WA-251 microphone a signature that pays homage to the vintage classic, but also stands out on its own.
The WA-251 is an all vacuum tube, large diaphragm, transformer balanced, multi-pattern, large condenser microphone, based on the classic ‘251 that has been used on countless hit records for the last 50+ years. The WA-251 is designed for pro studio, home studio, live, and broadcast applications and sounds great on vocals, acoustic/electric guitars, acoustic/electric bass, drums, piano, strings, brass/woodwind instruments, and an array of other sources.
Design
The classic ‘251 became extremely popular as a vocal microphone in the 1960’s and is now considered to be one of the greatest condenser microphones ever created. The classic ‘251 is still widely used today in professional recording studios but has become extremely rare and cost prohibitive to acquire.
Designing our WA-251 to sound like the classic ‘251 was no easy task, especially since some of the vintage components are no longer manufactured or available. We are pleased to release such a gorgeous sounding classic to the market at a price that’s reachable to more people than ever before.
All Brass Capsule
The WA-12-B-60V is an all-brass, edge-terminated capsule that captures all the smoothness, rich top end, and warm vintage sonics of the original CK12 capsule. The WA-12-B-60V uses a variant CEK-12 back plate as a basis, which overcomes manufacturing limitations of the original CK12 capsule. The o-ring and housing of the WA-12-B-60V are all made from brass (no teflon parts), and the diaphragm is 24k gold sputtered 6 micron, NOS PET film (mylar). The end result is a very consistent, reliable capsule which matches the frequency response and tonality of the classic 1970's classic capsule.
The Tube
A Slovak Republic JJ 12AY7 vacuum tube is used in the WA-251. We auditioned 3 tube brands and fell in love with the JJ 12AY7. The frequency response of the JJ tube, and the way it contributes to the circuit is tonally smooth and vintage in nature.
The Transformer
The WA-251 utilizes an American made CineMag USA transformer. This transformer helps provide the present top end and the LARGE bottom end one would hope to get from a 251-style condenser microphone.
The Capacitors
The WA-251 proudly uses polystyrene coupling capacitors, wima film capacitors throughout, and an imported Solen French capacitor on its output.
The Cable
One component of a tube microphone that is often overlooked is the 7 pin cable that connects the microphone to its power supply. When auditioning the WA-251 and other tube microphones we learned quite a bit about 7 pin cables and how the shielding and wire gauge size can drastically change the sonics of a tube microphone. We have partnered with Gotham Audio in Switzerland to use their very carefully built high-end 7 pin “GAC-7 cable”. Using this cable increases top end presence and the overall size of the recorded image in the stereo field by reducing phase shift and the parasitic effect often experienced in poorly built cables. Gotham Cabling is very expensive and boutique in nature and shouldn’t be considered a small addition to the WA-251 package.
In the Box
- Power Supply x1
- XLR Cable x1
- Wooden Storage Case x1
- Shockmount x1
- WA-251 x1
Specifications
- Custom WA-12-B-60V edge terminated, dual-backplate, all-brass vintage CK12-style capsule
- Cinemag USA output transformer
- JJ Slovak 12AY7 vacuum tube
- Gotham 5 meter GAC-7, 7-pin tube microphone cable
- WIMA, Solen French, and polystyrene capacitors
- Polar Patterns: 3 patterns - cardioid, omni, figure-of-eight
- Frequency Range: 20 Hz~20 kHz
- Output Impedance: 200 Ohms
- Maximum SPL: 132dB (<0.5% THD)
- Rated Load Impedance: ≥2kOhms
- S/N Ratio: 80dBA
- Equivalent Noise: 12dBA (IEC651)
- External IEC grounded PSU
- Total Weight (Mic, PSU, shockmount, cables): 12lbs
- Mic Dimensions: 247mm x 46mm
- Dynamic Range: 125dBA
- Includes: Microphone, wood box, PSU, shock-mount and gotham cable
- Brand
- Warm Audio
- Capsule Type
- Condenser
- Instrument
- VocalsInstrumentBrass
- Polar Pattern
- Multi
- Includes Shockmount
- Yes
- Diaphragm Size
- Large
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How do I use instant finance?
It's simple! Just add the products you want to your basket and click the "Checkout" button in your basket. Go through the checkout process and tick the "Finance" option under "Select Your Payment Method". You can then choose which finance term you'd like to apply for, and change your deposit if you wish.
At the end of the checkout you'll be taken to the V12 Finance web site. This is where your finance application is processed. Assuming your application is accepted you'll be able to place your deposit and confirm your order right there.
Then, your order will come through to Andertons and we'll send you the goods. Get approval before 3pm and we'll send your order out the same working day (stock permitting) for next working day delivery!
Who can apply for finance?
You must: spend over £300, be at least 18 years of age, have been a UK resident for 3 years or more, be able to make repayments by Direct Debit, be in regular employment (minimum of 16 hours per week) including self-employment, or in permanent residence with your partner who is in regular employment.
Read More About Online FinanceAndertons Music Company's Registered Office: 58-59 Woodbridge Road, Guildford, GU1 4RF. Andertons Music Company acts as a credit broker and not a lender and only offers credit products from Secure Trust Bank PLC trading as V12 Retail Finance. Not all products offered by Secure Trust Bank PLC are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Andertons Music Company is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, firm registration number 716155. Credit provided subject to age and status.
