Styled in a black finish, the Warm Audio WA-87 R2 Large-Diaphragm Multipattern Condenser Microphone is the second, upgraded version of the mic that helped establish Warm Audio’s reputation in the pro-audio gear sphere. The original WA-87 already brought the sound of a classic, vintage, and most importantly, expensive microphone to hard-working engineers on a budget. The WA-87 R2 upgrades many features to make it sound even better and even closer to the original. For instance, more top-shelf components are used throughout, such as an NOS Fairchild transistor, a CineMag USA transformer, and film capacitors from Wima. Plus, it has switchable pad and high-pass filter settings for on-mic optimization of the signal.

You’ll note an increased output level over the original as well as an improved frequency response across its 20 Hz to 20 kHz range. The latter is made possible by a new, rounded head-basket shape, which ensures the capsule has additional space in the housing, and accounts for the pleasing sonic signature, which is even closer to the sound of the original vintage mic. This mic can be used to capture audio in many environments, such as recording studios, live stage, and theaters. It is suitable for all sorts of voice and instrument applications with its selectable omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-8 polar patterns. The mic ships with a shockmount, a hard mount, and a wood box for storage.