Warm Audio WA-87 R2

U87-style FET condenser with three polar patterns at a fraction of the price

Best for: Studio-focused podcasters who want professional multi-pattern condenser flexibility without spending on a Neumann

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The WA-87 R2 is a large-diaphragm FET condenser microphone inspired by the iconic Neumann U 87, featuring three polar patterns (cardioid, omni, figure-8), a switchable 80 Hz high-pass filter, and a switchable -10 dB pad. It uses a NOS Fairchild transistor, Cinemag USA output transformer, and high-bandwidth Wima film capacitors. Maximum SPL is 125 dB (132 dB with pad). Frequency response is 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Requires 48V phantom power.

Key features

  • 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)

Our take

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 lift of the original design. Multi-pattern functionality is genuinely useful for round-table podcasts where a figure-8 or omni pickup makes more practical sense. The caveat is room sensitivity - three polar patterns give you flexibility but all three require acoustic treatment to shine.

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

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