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Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Warm Audio WA12 500 MKII". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Warm Audio WA12 500 MKII is more than just a preamp; it's a sonic enhancer that breathes life into any recording. This 500 Series preamp does not merely amplify your signal, it infuses it with an alluring warmth and vibrancy that brings out the best in your vocals or instruments. The WA12-500 MKII is not just about clarity; it's about character, giving your mixes a professional edge with a unique sonic footprint that can only be described as 'Warm'.

The updated version of this acclaimed preamp comes with a handy LED meter and an output attenuation control, allowing you to gradually drive the preamp and transformers into a realm of delicious, colorful saturation.

Warm Audio has included a secret weapon in the WA12-500 MKII: a Tone button that toggles the input impedance from 600 to 150 ohms. This feature alters the tone of both mic and hi-Z inputs, allowing for optimal adaptation to your various microphones without the need for EQ. Plus, with a substantial 71dB of gain, it's ready to handle your favorite ribbon mics.

Despite its premium performance, the WA12-500 MKII comes at an astonishingly reasonable price. This preamp doesn't compromise on quality, boasting top-notch components like genuine Cinemag input and output transformers.

Key Features:

  • Impressive 71dB of gain, perfect for powering all types of mics, including ribbons
  • 2 Mohms true hi-Z input on the front panel, ideal for guitars, bass, keyboards
  • High voltage 1731-style operational amplifier
  • Tone button for switching input impedance from 600 to 150 ohms
  • Fully discrete design
  • 48-volt phantom power; 20dB pad
  • Balanced inputs: XLR or 1/4" TRS
  • Balanced outputs: XLR and 1/4" TRS
  • Custom-designed Cinemag input and output transformers
  • Output attenuation control for driving preamp and transformers into colorful saturation
  • LED Meter for gain indication
  • 20dB pad

Product specs

Preamp Type Solid State Preamp
Number of Channels 1
Phantom Power Yes
Analog Inputs 1 x 1/4" (Hi-Z switchable)
Features -20dB pad, transformer tone switch, polarity switch
Module Slot Size Single
Power Usage ±16V DC

FAQs

What type of preamp is the Warm Audio WA12 500 MKII?

The Warm Audio WA12 500 MKII is a solid-state preamp designed for studio recording, offering a single channel with high-quality sound reproduction.

Does the Warm Audio WA12 500 MKII provide phantom power for condenser microphones?

Yes, the WA12 500 MKII includes phantom power, making it suitable for use with condenser microphones that require this feature.

What are the key features of the Warm Audio WA12 500 MKII preamp?

The WA12 500 MKII features a -20dB pad, a transformer tone switch, and a polarity switch, allowing for versatile sound shaping and control in your recordings.

How does the transformer tone switch on the WA12 500 MKII affect the sound?

The transformer tone switch on the WA12 500 MKII enhances harmonic richness and adds character to the audio signal, offering a more vintage, warmer sound.

Can the Warm Audio WA12 500 MKII be used with instruments?

Yes, the WA12 500 MKII has a Hi-Z switchable 1/4" input, making it compatible with instruments such as electric guitars and basses for direct input recording.

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Warm Audio WA12 MKII Overview and Demo

Video thumbnail for Warm Audio WA12 MKII Overview and Demo by Sweetwater

Warm Audio WA12 MKII Overview and Demo

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for Warm Audio WA12-MKII 500 -vs- CAPI Gear VP312DI Shootout by The Noiz Faktory Recording Studios

Warm Audio WA12-MKII 500 -vs- CAPI Gear VP312DI Shootout

The Noiz Faktory Recording Studios

The Noiz Faktory Recording Studios

Video thumbnail for Golden Age Project Pre-573 Mk II vs. Warm Audio WA12-500 Mk II by Made by Miike

Golden Age Project Pre-573 Mk II vs. Warm Audio WA12-500 Mk II

Made by Miike

Made by Miike

Reviews

PROS

  • Offers API 512C-like tones at a more affordable price

  • Provides a wide array of possible tones, from transparent to distorted

  • Includes a Tone button for input impedance changes and coloration

  • Features an output knob for controlled signal saturation

  • Allows OP amp swaps for sound customization

  • Equipped with a DI for guitar/bass on the front

  • Enhances signal clarity, especially for mics like the SM7b

CONS

  • Slightly less clear in high-mids and highs compared to API 512c

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Warm Audio WA12 500 MKII.

Setup and maintenance

  • Universal rack trays can be used for mounting, utilizing existing bottom screws or velcro for non-aligning holes.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Warm Audio WA12 offers both a 500 series and a discrete version, impacting mounting options.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • 500 series requires a dedicated rack, whereas the discrete version might need a compatible shelf for cabinet integration.

    Source
  • It's suggested to pair the WA12 with a compressor to achieve a more dynamic vocal recording setup.

    Source
  • The WA12, when paired with a C12VR, may not be the best choice as a room mic, suggesting better synergy with other microphone models.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The WA12 is noted as a strong clone of the classic API 312, praised for its rich tone, particularly given its price point.

    Source
  • The WA12 is often compared to the Golden Age Pre73, but opinions vary on which offers superior sound quality, with some preferring the Pre73's brighter tone.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report that the WA12 adds noticeable warmth and color to vocal recordings, enhancing their professional quality.

    Source
  • While many appreciate the WA12, some users feel it doesn't significantly outperform other preamps in its price range, highlighting the subjective nature of audio gear evaluations.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Beginners find the WA12 a cost-effective solution for upgrading from entry-level audio interfaces like the Scarlett 2i2.

    Source

Other

  • It's been noted that relying solely on online reviews for purchasing decisions can be misleading due to the subjective experiences and varied setups of different users.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
patchwilliam

Love it

The first piece of my outboard mic chain, I can finally get the signal up off the noise floor for my SM7b and get a truly high quality, clean recording. Depending on how hard you drive the gain, you can get results that range anywhere from mostly transparent to highly colored to full on distorted, so you have a wide array of possible tones to play with. I also like that it has a DI on the front for guitar/bass which I consider a necessity for any all-purpose, first preamp.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Andy Larocque uses Warm Audio WA12 500 MKII

Andy Larocque

Guitarist, Music Producer

Death (Metal Band)

...
Verified via Warm Audio

Taken from Warm Audio's website. He uses the WA12 500 MkII model at Sonic Train.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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