Warm Audio WA-87JR Studio Vocal Microphone – Nickel

Overview

Styled in a nickel finish, the Warm Audio WA-87 R2 Large-Diaphragm Multipattern Condenser Microphone is the upgraded version of the mic that helped establish Warm Audio's reputation in professional audio. The original WA-87 delivered the sound of a classic, vintage, and expensive microphone to engineers on a budget. The R2 version improves on that with premium components like an NOS Fairchild transistor, CineMag USA transformer, and Wima film capacitors. It also includes switchable pad and high-pass filter settings for signal optimization.

The WA-87 R2 offers increased output and improved frequency response (20 Hz to 20 kHz), thanks to its new rounded head-basket design that enhances the capsule’s sonic performance. Ideal for studios, live stages, and theaters, it supports omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-8 polar patterns. Included accessories: shockmount, hard mount, and wood storage box.

New in the R2

• Rounded head-basket shape for enhanced sonic character
• Improved frequency response compared to the original version

Premium Components

Based on a classic 1960s circuit, the WA-87 R2 uses top-tier components to closely match the vintage sound. These include:

• NOS Fairchild transistor
• High-bandwidth polystyrene and Wima film capacitors
• Custom-wound CineMag USA output transformer
• WA-87 capsule built to vintage specifications

Versatility

The WA-87 R2 excels at recording vocals, drum overheads, guitars, piano, percussion, brass, strings, and more. It offers three polar patterns (cardioid, omnidirectional, figure-8), an 80 Hz high-pass filter to reduce rumble, and a -10 dB pad for loud sources.

Design & Build

The microphone features a heavier, stronger nickel-plated brass body and a redesigned head-basket for improved acoustic performance.

Features at a Glance

• Large-diaphragm studio condenser microphone
• Vintage 87-style circuit reproduction
• Discrete premium components: NOS Fairchild transistor, Wima/Nichicon capacitors
• Custom CineMag USA output transformer
• WA-87-B-50V capsule (dual backplate K87 design)
• Nickel-plated brass body
• Cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8 polar patterns
• Switchable -10 dB pad and 80 Hz high-pass filter
• 6-micron gold-sputtered diaphragm with NOS Mylar (PET film)
• XLR 3-pin output connector
• Requires 48V phantom power
• Includes shockmount, hard mount, and wood box

Video