Home
... Musical Instruments
Studio Recording Gear
Preamps & Channel Strips
Preamps
Warm Audio
Warm Audio WA-MPX 1-channel Tube Mic/Line/Instrument Preamp

Instrument Preamp

$555.00 to $799.00 Price Tier: Standard

3 Critic Reviews

Find out who is using Warm Audio WA-MPX

1 wishlisted

1 saved

Page last updated Jul 07, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated July 6, 2026.

Store

Reviews

Price

4.5 (10)

$799.00

View Deal

5.0 (2)

$799.00

View Deal

3.4 (5)

$639.20 Used

View Deal

$799.00

View Deal

5.0 (1)

$799.00

View Deal

3.0 (1)

$799.00

View Deal

4.4 (8)

$699.00 $555.00 $144.00 · All time low

View Deal

£629.00

View Deal

$799.00

View Deal

Average Price: $749

Standard/Professional

$599

$2000+

Price Tier

In the Preamps category, Warm Audio WA-MPX 1-channel Tube Mic/Line/Instrument Preamp is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Warm Audio WA-MPX 1-channel Tube Mic/Line/Instrument Preamp". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

^* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Edit description

Unlock the vintage warmth and color of legendary analog recordings with the Warm Audio WA-MPX 1-channel Tube Mic/Line/Instrument Preamp. Inspired by the iconic “351” tape machine preamp that shaped the sound of rock 'n' roll, this meticulously handwired unit brings the timeless appeal of classic tube electronics to your modern recording setup. Custom-wound CineMag USA transformers and a trio of premium vacuum tubes work together to deliver a stunning 90dB of clean, analog tube gain, ensuring even the quietest sources can be captured with vibrant clarity.

The WA-MPX is more than just a nod to the past; it offers a suite of modern features for today's studio needs. From its selectable tape saturation switch, which adds harmonic distortion and natural compression, to its high-gain control that engages a third tube for an extra 20dB of gain, this preamp is designed for versatility. The tone circuit offers mic input transformer impedance modification, allowing you to optimize your sound or add extra analog color to your recordings.

Housed in a robust metal chassis with a classic brushed aluminum front panel, the WA-MPX combines vintage aesthetics with intuitive controls, including a warmly lit VU meter and smooth rotary knobs. Whether you're using it for vocals, instruments, or line-level applications, this preamp is built to inspire confidence with every session.

Key Features:

Authentic reproduction of the revered “351” tape-era tube preamp
Fully discrete, handwired construction with three tubes per channel
Selectable tape saturation for added harmonic distortion and compression
Custom-wound CineMag USA transformers
High-gain control for an additional 20dB of clean gain
48V phantom power and polarity switch
80Hz high-pass and 2kHz low-pass filters
XLR, TRS, and TS inputs; XLR and TRS outputs
Hand-inspected and tested at Warm Audio HQ in Austin, Texas

Owner's manual

Warm Audio WA-MPX 1-channel Tube Mic/Line/Instrument Preamp User Manual

Product specs

Preamp Type	Tube
Number of Channels	1
Phantom Power	Yes
Polarity Switch	Yes
EQ	80Hz highpass filter, 2kHz lowpass filter
Tubes	2 x 12AX7, 1 x 12AU7
Analog Inputs	1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4" TRS, 1 x 1/4" Hi-Z (front)
Analog Outputs	1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4" TRS
Frequency Response	20Hz-20kHz
Rack Spaces	2U
Power Source	Standard IEC AC cable
Height	3.5"
Width	19"

FAQs

What are the standout features of the Warm Audio WA-MPX preamp?: The Warm Audio WA-MPX preamp features a tube design with 2 x 12AX7 and 1 x 12AU7 tubes, offering a classic warm sound. It includes an 80Hz highpass and 2kHz lowpass filter, making it versatile for various recording applications.
Does the Warm Audio WA-MPX provide phantom power for condenser microphones?: Yes, the Warm Audio WA-MPX preamp includes phantom power, making it suitable for use with condenser microphones.
Can the Warm Audio WA-MPX be used with instruments as well as microphones?: Yes, the WA-MPX features a Hi-Z input on the front panel, allowing direct connection of instruments such as guitars and basses.
What type of connectivity does the Warm Audio WA-MPX offer?: The WA-MPX offers versatile connectivity with 1 x XLR and 1 x 1/4" TRS analog inputs, as well as 1 x XLR and 1 x 1/4" TRS analog outputs.
Is the Warm Audio WA-MPX suitable for rack mounting?: Yes, the Warm Audio WA-MPX is designed for rack mounting and occupies 2U of rack space.

Videos

Add video

Alec Brits

Warm Audio WA-MPX Review: Bringing Back the Classic Magic #musicproduction #recordingstudio

Alec Brits

Warm Audio WA-MPX Demo

Sweetwater

Warm Audio WA-MPX Tube Mic Preamp Review (Pt. 2)

Travis Raab Guitar

Warm Audio WA-MPX Tube Mic Preamp Review (Pt. 1)

Travis Raab Guitar

WA-MPX Tube Mic Preamp Demo & Overview | Hear it on drums, vocals, acoustic guitar, mixing

Warm Audio

GETTING SATURATED with the Warm Audio WA-MPX!

Creative Sauce

WARM AUDIO WA-MPX On Vocal

Arlan Dabu

REVIEW: Warm Audio WA-MPX Tube preamp and Saturator

Matt Ingram

Reviews

Add review

PROS

Exceptional sound shaping capabilities with rich analog character
Warm, smooth tone adds depth and musicality to recordings
High-quality build with reliable discrete components and transformers
Flexible gain structure allows for a wide range of tonal variations
Tape saturation feature enhances harmonic richness for dynamic recordings
Works well with higher output sources like condenser mics
Effective for a variety of musical styles, particularly Rap/Hip-Hop
Large, aesthetically pleasing VU meter

CONS

Onset of distortion can be tricky to manage for some users
Intrinsic noise may be noticeable with low-output sources
Tape saturation feature may not meet all expectations
Some concerns over internal build quality (e.g., loose components)
Concealed tubes make monitoring their status difficult

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Warm Audio WA-MPX 1-channel Tube Mic/Line/Instrument Preamp.

Build quality

0 0

The WA-MPX is noted for its improved power supply section, essential for handling higher voltage tubes properly.
Source

Features and functionality

0 0

Confusion exists around the mic input impedance; actual impedances are reportedly 10 times higher than the stated transformer ratings.
Source

Comparisons

0 0

The WA-MPX's impedance specifications are consistent with other Warm Audio models like the Tone Beast and 412 clone.
Source
0 0

The WA-MPX is often compared to Cyclops Audio's modded Yamaha PM1000 channels, which are noted for their Neve EQ frequencies and custom saturation switches.
Source

Use cases and applications

0 0

The preamp is seen as ideal for adding saturation, with some users noting it gets "crunchy" quickly, making it suitable for mixing rather than subtle tracking.
Source
0 0

The WA-MPX's saturation feature is highlighted for its ability to enhance line signals for drums and keys, offering a distinct tone compared to digital saturation plugins.
Source

Mods and upgrades

0 0

Cyclops Audio offers hand-built custom stereo preamps with big iron transformers, providing a unique alternative to the WA-MPX for under $1,000.
Source

Value and pricing

0 0

Some users perceive Warm Audio products as overpriced, suggesting the WA-MPX might cost $300 more than its perceived value compared to GAP products.
Source

User experience

0 0

There’s skepticism about Warm Audio's marketing practices, with concerns about deceptive advertising influencing perceptions of the WA-MPX's features.
Source

Critic Reviews

Warm Audio WA-MPX & WA-2MPX

soundonsound.com

Warm Audio’s WA-MPX and WA-2MPX deliver a vibrant homage to vintage tube preamps, offering rich warmth and character that enhance any audio source. The intuitive controls and build quality are commendable, making them user-friendly for both novices and pros. While the rotary controls lack detents for precise recall, the sonic capabilities and innovative features like the Tape Sat switch more than compensate. However, their appeal might be niche; those seeking a straightforward preamp may find them excessive. Ultimately, these preamps strike a remarkable balance between vintage charm and modern functionality, making them excellent value for money.

positive

Full Review

REVIEW: WARM Audio WA-MPX - Affordable tube warmth?

gearnews.com

The Warm Audio WA-MPX delivers impressive vintage tube warmth at a competitive price, making it a standout choice for those seeking to enrich their recordings. Users will appreciate its solid build and the rich, smooth tones it produces, especially for bass and vocals. However, while it excels in character, its versatility is limited, and the 'Tape Sat' feature may disappoint those expecting true tape saturation. Overall, for musicians looking to inject some analog charm into their sound, the WA-MPX is a worthwhile investment, but be prepared to navigate its specific usage quirks.

positive

Full Review

Warm Audio WA-MPX – A Mix Real-World Review - Mixonline

mixonline.com

The Warm Audio WA-MPX is a standout preamp that captures the essence of vintage sound without breaking the bank. With an impressive gain range and versatile tone-shaping features, it excels in adding warmth and character to vocals and instruments alike. Its retro aesthetic is complemented by solid build quality, making it a joy to use. Notably, the Tape Saturation circuit is a highlight, effectively emulating the rich tones of classic tape machines. While digital alternatives have improved, this unit delivers a genuine tube experience, and the review finds no downsides—an impressive feat. Musicians seeking authentic sound and value should definitely consider this gem.

positive

Full Review

Add review

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star

Artist usage

Add artist

Clay Parton

Singer, Guitarist

Duster

Verified via Twitter

Clay Parton uses the Warm Audio WA-MPX 1-channel Tube Mic/Line/Instrument Preamp, as evidenced by its appearance in a Twitter post by "thisisduster," where it was shown among gear being cleared out.