Introducing the Warm Audio WA12 MKII Black, an exceptional preamp that can elevate and shape your sound to professional standards. Whether you're working with vocals or instruments, the WA12 MKII is engineered to transform your tone into something exciting and vibrant. If your mixes are lacking depth or struggling to sound alive, the WA12 MKII could be the missing link you need.

This preamp is a discrete, high voltage, dual-transformer microphone preamplifier, designed for high gain (+71dB), high headroom, and low noise. It's capable of delivering a sonic performance that's perfect for all types of recording applications. A quality mic preamp like the WA12 MKII is one of the most essential pieces needed to achieve that elusive 'larger than life' sound.

At the heart of the WA12 MKII, you'll find a discrete op-amp, the X731, a remarkable reproduction of the vintage classic Melcor 1731, known for its warm and lifelike tones. The X731 can be driven into mild saturation at higher gain levels for subtle but pleasing effects.

Key Features:

• High gain (+71dB), high headroom, low noise design
• Discrete, high voltage, dual-transformer microphone preamplifier
• Based on the discrete op-amp, the X731 (Melcor 1731 clone)
• Capable of achieving vibrant, clean, and lifelike tones
• Can accept any discrete op-amp on the market that conforms to the +/-16v, 2520 pinout standard
• Mic level balanced input: XLR or 1/4" TRS
• Balanced outputs: XLR and 1/4" TRS
• 2 Mohms true hi-Z input on front panel - great for guitars, bass, keyboards
• Custom-designed Cinemag input and output transformers
• LED gain indicator
• 48-volt phantom power, 20dB pad, and polarity invert switches
• Tone button for switching the input impedance from 600 to 150 ohms

Owner's manual

Product specs

FAQs

What kind of sound character does the Warm Audio WA12 MKII Black preamp impart?

The Warm Audio WA12 MKII Black is known for its warm, rich sound with a slight vintage coloration, thanks to its premium CineMag transformers. It's ideal for adding depth and character to vocals and instruments.

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

Yes, the Warm Audio WA12 MKII Black supplies +48V phantom power, making it suitable for use with condenser microphones requiring this feature.

What are the input and output options on the Warm Audio WA12 MKII Black?

The WA12 MKII Black offers 1 XLR input for microphones, 1 Hi-Z 1/4" input for instruments, and outputs via 1 XLR and 1 TRS 1/4" jack, providing versatile connectivity for studio setups.

Is the Warm Audio WA12 MKII Black suitable for both microphones and instruments?

Yes, the WA12 MKII Black is designed for both microphones and instruments, featuring a Hi-Z input specifically for direct instrument connection.

What is the purpose of the tone impedance switch on the Warm Audio WA12 MKII Black?

The tone impedance switch on the WA12 MKII Black allows you to alter the impedance, providing different tonal characteristics and enhancing the preamp's versatility for various microphones and instruments.