Rode PodMic vs Warm Audio WA-87 R2
A side-by-side look at Rode PodMic and Warm Audio WA-87 R2 for podcasters: pricing, features, and where each one wins.
Rode PodMic
Purpose-built broadcast dynamic that punches above its price
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Check price on Amazon
Warm Audio WA-87 R2
U87-style FET condenser with three polar patterns at a fraction of the price
See site
Check price on AmazonAt a glance
| Rode PodMic | Warm Audio WA-87 R2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | See site | See site |
| Free plan | No | No |
| Free trial | No | No |
| Best for | Podcasters who want a focused XLR dynamic mic with a tight cardioid pattern and minimal setup fuss | Studio-focused podcasters who want professional multi-pattern condenser flexibility without spending on a Neumann |
Key features
Rode PodMic
- Dynamic cardioid, XLR only
- 20 Hz - 20 kHz frequency response
- Internal pop filter
- Internal shock mount
- Integrated swing mount
- 320 ohm output impedance
Warm Audio WA-87 R2
- Frequency response 20 Hz to 20 kHz
- Switchable 80 Hz high-pass filter and -10 dB pad
- Large-diaphragm FET condenser XLR, requires 48V phantom power
- Three polar patterns: cardioid, omni, and figure-8
- NOS Fairchild transistor and Cinemag USA output transformer
- Maximum SPL 125 dB (132 dB with pad engaged)
Pros and cons
Rode PodMic
Pros
- Warm broadcast tone straight out of the box
- Internal pop filter reduces plosives without an external screen
- Solid all-metal build
- Great value for a dedicated XLR dynamic
Cons
- XLR only - no USB option (see PodMic USB for that)
- Still needs adequate gain from your interface
- No headphone monitoring built in
Warm Audio WA-87 R2
Pros
- Three polar patterns enable cardioid, omni, and figure-8 recording configurations
- Premium passive components (Fairchild NOS transistor, Cinemag transformer) at accessible price
- U87-inspired voicing with full, present character
- High SPL ceiling handles a wide range of sources
Cons
- Condenser sensitivity demands acoustic treatment
- Requires 48V phantom power
- Multi-pattern capability is underutilized in basic solo podcast setups
The verdict
Choose Rode PodMic if
Podcasters who want a focused XLR dynamic mic with a tight cardioid pattern and minimal setup fuss.
Rode nailed the value proposition here - the PodMic sounds like a more expensive mic and the internal pop filter actually works, which means you can get close to the capsule without fighting plosives. The swing mount is convenient and…
Choose Warm Audio WA-87 R2 if
Studio-focused podcasters who want professional multi-pattern condenser flexibility without spending on a Neumann.
The WA-87 R2 is the most honest U87 homage on the market - Warm Audio builds it with premium passive components and does not hide what they are doing. The cardioid pattern sounds full and detailed, with the characteristic presence…