Description
The Warm Audio WA-67 Tube Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone is a significant offering from Warm Audio, known for their meticulous recreations of classic studio gear at accessible prices.
This particular microphone aims to emulate the legendary Neumann U67, a highly coveted tube condenser microphone used on countless hit records from the 1960s onwards.
Features and Specifications:
- Microphone Type: Tube Condenser. This means it uses a vacuum tube in its circuitry to achieve its signature warm, rich, and harmonically complex sound. It requires an external power supply (included), which in turn plugs into a standard wall outlet.
- Diaphragm: Features a custom reproduction of the vintage K67-style capsule. This is a large, gold-sputtered Mylar diaphragm (6 microns thick), meticulously designed to replicate the response and character of the original ’67 capsule. This is crucial for achieving the iconic U67 sound.
- Tube Type: The heart of its tube sound comes from a premium EF86 pentode tube. This specific tube is renowned for its smooth, creamy clarity and brilliance, and was a key component in the original U67.
- Multiple Polar Patterns: A major selling point, offering three selectable patterns directly on the mic body:
- Cardioid: Ideal for isolating a single sound source like vocals, acoustic instruments, or guitar amps, rejecting off-axis noise.
- Omnidirectional: Picks up sound equally from all directions, perfect for capturing room ambience, choirs, or ensemble recordings.
- Figure-8 (Bidirectional): Picks up sound equally from the front and rear, while rejecting sound from the sides. Great for duets or capturing an instrument with its specific room reflections.
- On-Board Controls (Switches): The WA-67 is equipped with useful switches for greater flexibility:
- Attenuation Pad (-10 dB): Allows the microphone to handle very high Sound Pressure Levels (SPLs) without distortion, making it suitable for loud sources like drums or loud guitar cabinets.
- High-Pass Filter (80 Hz): Rolls off low frequencies below 80 Hz. This helps to reduce unwanted rumble, hum, and control the proximity effect, leading to cleaner recordings.
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz. This wide frequency range ensures it captures the full audible spectrum with the detailed and often “buttery smooth” character associated with the ’67.
- Max SPL (Sound Pressure Level): 138 dB SPL (at 0.5% THD). With the -10 dB pad engaged, it can handle even higher SPLs, making it very versatile.
- Equivalent Noise Level (Self-Noise): 17 dBA (A-weighted). While higher than some modern FET condensers, this is a very respectable and low self-noise figure for a tube microphone, reflecting the inherent noise characteristics of tube circuitry but remaining well within professional studio standards.
- Premium Components: Warm Audio emphasizes using top-shelf components to complete the vintage-style circuit. This includes:
- A custom large-core transformer from Lundahl (Sweden), which plays a significant role in its smooth high-frequency response and rich dimensionality.
- High-bandwidth polystyrene capacitors.
- Boutique polypropylene capacitors from WIMA and Solen.
- Connectivity: The microphone connects to its external power supply via a 7-pin XLR cable (premium Gotham Audio 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 nickel-plated brass body and headbasket, providing both strength, durability, and additional shielding from extraneous handling noise. It feels substantial and premium.
- Included Accessories: The WA-67 comes as a complete package, typically including:
- External Power Supply Unit
- 7-pin Gotham Audio cable (high-quality cable crucial for tube mic performance)
- Wooden Case for the microphone
- Shockmount (vibration-reducing spider-type)
- Hardmount (standard mic clip)
Performance and Sound Quality:
- The “67 Sound”: The primary draw of the WA-67 is its faithful recreation of the original ’67’s sonic character. This translates to a sound that is often described as:
- Warm and Rich: Especially in the low-mids and mid-range, providing a full-bodied sound.
- Smooth and Creamy High End: Unlike some brighter condensers, the ’67 style tends to be more forgiving in the upper frequencies, making it excellent for vocals that need presence without harshness.
- Detailed and Articulate: Despite the warmth, it still captures intricate details and transients with clarity.
- Dimensional: The tube and transformer combination contributes to a sense of depth and realism in recordings.
- Exceptional Versatility: Thanks to its multi-pattern capability, pad, and HPF, the WA-67 is a true workhorse:
- Vocals: A top choice for lead and backing vocals, known for flattering various voice types.
- Acoustic Guitars & Pianos: Captures richness and detail.
- Electric Guitar & Bass Amps: Handles high SPLs with authority, adding character and warmth.
- Drums: Excellent as a mono or stereo overhead, or for kick and room miking.
- Strings, Brass, Woodwinds: Delivers a full and natural sound.
- Pro-Grade Performance: While significantly more affordable than a vintage U67, the WA-67 delivers a professional-grade sound that can sit confidently in commercial mixes.
- Serious Home and Project Studio Owners: Who are looking for a high-end, characterful tube condenser microphone to elevate their recordings.
- Vocalists and Musicians: Seeking a professional, vintage-inspired sound for their voice and instruments.
- Engineers and Producers: Who want the “67 sound” without the exorbitant cost and maintenance of a vintage unit.
- Anyone: Looking to add a versatile, warm, and rich-sounding tube microphone to their collection.
It’s highly recommended to check with local music stores in Multan or prominent online retailers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing and stock availability. The Warm Audio WA-67 is a significant investment, but it’s renowned for delivering a truly high-end, classic tube microphone experience at a fraction of the cost of its vintage inspiration.
