Warm Audio WA-47 Large-Diaphragm Tube Condenser Microphone User Manual

Introduction

The Warm Audio WA-47 is a large-diaphragm tube condenser microphone designed to recreate the classic sound of vintage studio microphones. It features discrete, transformer-balanced vacuum tube circuitry and a custom reproduction capsule, aiming to deliver a warm, bold tone suitable for a variety of recording applications.

This microphone is engineered to provide high-quality audio capture for professional and home studio environments, offering a versatile tool for vocals, acoustic instruments, and more.

Package Contents

WA-47 Large-Diaphragm Tube Condenser Microphone
Wood Presentation Box
External Power Supply Unit (PSU)
Shockmount
XLR Cable (for microphone connection to PSU)
Power Cable (for PSU)

Setup Guide

Follow these steps to set up your Warm Audio WA-47 microphone:

Unpacking: Carefully remove all components from the wood presentation box. Inspect for any visible damage.
Mounting the Microphone: Attach the WA-47 microphone securely to the provided shockmount. Ensure the microphone is firmly seated to prevent accidental drops and to isolate it from vibrations.
Connecting to PSU: Use the specialized XLR cable provided to connect the microphone to the external Power Supply Unit (PSU). This cable carries both audio signal and power to the tube.
Powering the PSU: Connect the power cable to the PSU and then to a suitable electrical outlet.
Connecting to Audio Interface/Preamp: Connect the output of the PSU to your audio interface or microphone preamplifier using a standard XLR cable. Ensure your audio interface or preamp is set to receive a line-level signal, as the PSU provides the necessary gain.
Power On: Once all connections are secure, switch on the PSU. Allow the tube microphone a few minutes to warm up for optimal performance.

A detailed view of the Warm Audio WA-47 large-diaphragm tube condenser microphone, showcasing its metallic silver body and intricate mesh grille. This image illustrates the microphone's primary design and connection point.

Operating Instructions

The WA-47 offers versatile recording options with its multiple polar patterns:

Polar Patterns: The WA-47 features 9 selectable polar patterns, allowing for flexibility in various recording scenarios. These typically include Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Figure-8, and intermediate patterns. Refer to the PSU for pattern selection controls.
Application: This microphone is well-suited for capturing vocals, acoustic guitars, drums, and other instruments, providing a rich and full sound.
Placement: Experiment with microphone placement relative to the sound source to achieve the desired tonal characteristics and minimize unwanted room reflections.

Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your WA-47 microphone:

Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the microphone and PSU. Avoid using liquid cleaners or abrasive materials.
Storage: When not in use, store the microphone in its wood presentation box to protect it from dust, moisture, and physical damage.
Tube Replacement: The vacuum tube inside the microphone has a finite lifespan. If you notice a degradation in sound quality, increased noise, or intermittent operation, the tube may need replacement. This should ideally be performed by a qualified technician or by following specific instructions from Warm Audio.
Handling: Always handle the microphone and its components with care. Avoid dropping or subjecting them to strong impacts.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your WA-47 microphone, consider the following:

Problem	Possible Cause / Solution
No Sound Output	Ensure all cables (microphone to PSU, PSU to interface, power) are securely connected. Verify the PSU is powered on and its indicator light is active. Check the input selection and gain settings on your audio interface/preamp. Allow sufficient warm-up time for the tube.
Low Output / Weak Signal	Increase the gain on your audio interface/preamp. Ensure the microphone is properly oriented towards the sound source. The vacuum tube may be aging and require replacement.
Excessive Noise (Hiss, Hum)	Check for ground loops; try plugging equipment into the same power strip. Ensure all cables are in good condition and properly shielded. The tube may be faulty or nearing end-of-life. Environmental electrical interference.
Physical Damage (e.g., detached capsule)	Immediately cease use and contact Warm Audio customer support for repair or replacement. Do not attempt to fix internal components yourself.

If the issue persists after attempting these solutions, please contact Warm Audio customer support for further assistance.

Specifications

Feature	Detail
Model Name	WA-47
Microphone Form Factor	Large Diaphragm
Polar Patterns	9 (selectable)
Connectivity Technology	XLR
Power Source	Corded Electric (External PSU)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio	70 dB
Item Weight	11.58 Pounds
Product Dimensions (L x W x H)	19 x 13.8 x 5.75 inches
Material	Wood (for presentation box), Nickel (microphone finish)
Manufacturer	V-007076 Warm Audio LLC
UPC	713541493117
Item Model Number	55-90003
Date First Available	December 20, 2017

Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact Warm Audio directly. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.

Warm Audio Contact Information:

Visit the official Warm Audio website for the most current contact details and support resources.
Refer to the documentation included with your product for specific warranty terms and conditions.

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Warm Audio WA-47