Warm Audio WA87 R2 Large-diaphragm Condenser Microphone User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your Warm Audio WA87 R2 Large-diaphragm Condenser Microphone. The WA87 R2 is designed for professional audio recording applications, offering multiple polar patterns and robust construction.

2. Safety Instructions

• Always handle the microphone with care to prevent damage to the capsule and internal components.
• Avoid exposing the microphone to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
• Ensure proper phantom power (48V) is supplied by your audio interface or mixer. Incorrect power can damage the microphone.
• Disconnect the microphone from power before cleaning or performing any maintenance.
• Do not attempt to open the microphone casing, as this may void the warranty and expose sensitive electronics.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in your package:

• Warm Audio WA87 R2 Microphone
• Shockmount
• Hard Mount
• Wooden Storage Box

4. Product Overview

The Warm Audio WA87 R2 is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone featuring three switchable polar patterns, a 10dB pad, and a high-pass filter. Its design incorporates a genuine CineMag transformer for enhanced performance.

Front view of the Warm Audio WA87 R2 microphone, showcasing its nickel-plated brass body, metal grille, and the Warm Audio logo. The polar pattern switch is visible above the logo, allowing selection between cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8 patterns.

5. Setup

1. Mounting: Secure the WA87 R2 microphone into the provided shockmount or hard mount. Attach the mount to a standard microphone stand.
2. Connection: Connect an XLR cable from the microphone's output to an XLR input on your audio interface or mixer.
3. Phantom Power: Activate 48V phantom power on your audio interface or mixer. The microphone requires phantom power to operate.
4. Gain Staging: Adjust the input gain on your audio interface or mixer to achieve an appropriate signal level without clipping.

6. Operating

6.1 Polar Patterns

The WA87 R2 offers three selectable polar patterns via a switch on the microphone body:

• Cardioid (Heart-shaped symbol): Picks up sound primarily from the front, rejecting sound from the sides and rear. Ideal for vocals and single instruments.
• Omnidirectional (Circle symbol): Picks up sound equally from all directions. Suitable for capturing room ambiance or multiple sources.
• Figure-8 (Figure-eight symbol): Picks up sound equally from the front and rear, rejecting sound from the sides. Useful for duets or M/S stereo recording.

6.2 10dB Pad

A 10dB pad switch is located on the microphone body. Engage this switch when recording very loud sound sources to prevent input overload and distortion.

6.3 High-Pass Filter

The high-pass filter switch reduces low-frequency rumble and proximity effect. Activate this filter when recording vocals or instruments where excessive bass frequencies are undesirable.

7. Maintenance

• Keep the microphone clean by wiping it with a soft, dry cloth.
• Store the microphone in its protective wooden box when not in use to shield it from dust and physical damage.
• Avoid touching the microphone capsule directly, as oils and debris can affect performance.

8. Troubleshooting

• No Sound: Ensure 48V phantom power is enabled on your audio interface/mixer. Check all cable connections. Verify input gain is set appropriately.
• Distorted Sound: Engage the 10dB pad if recording loud sources. Reduce input gain on your audio interface/mixer.
• Excessive Bass/Rumble: Activate the high-pass filter. Ensure proper microphone placement to minimize proximity effect.
• Intermittent Signal: Check XLR cable for damage or loose connections. Try a different XLR cable.

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Warm Audio website or contact your authorized dealer. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

You can visit the Warm Audio store for additional resources: Warm Audio Store