Warm Audio WA-87

$699.00 Price Tier: High-end

5.0 (13)

2 Critic Reviews

2 Reviews

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

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Warm Audio WA-87 R2

$224.12 - $699.00

5.0 (5)

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4 community setups

11 wishlisted

42 saved

Page last updated Jun 10, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated June 10, 2026.

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5.0 (11)

$699.00 3 available New

$468.00 3 available Used

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Average Price: $584

High-end/Boutique

$100

$401+

Price Tier

In the Condenser Microphones category, Warm Audio WA-87 is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

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Unleash the potential of your studio recordings with the Warm Audio WA-87, a condenser microphone that captures the essence of a vintage '87. This meticulously crafted microphone uses an authentic recreation of the renowned K87 capsule, complemented by a high-quality CineMag transformer and Fairchild FETs. The result is a rich, detailed sound that brings out the best in any source, particularly vocals and acoustic instruments. With its three switchable polar patterns, -10dB pad, and 80Hz high-pass filter, the WA-87 offers versatility for a wide range of applications, making it an essential addition to any recording setup.

Key Features:

Based on the vintage '87 studio condenser microphone for a classic, detailed sound
Uses a precise recreation of the legendary K87 capsule
Equipped with a premium CineMag transformer and Fairchild FETs
Features three switchable polar patterns for versatility in various recording scenarios
Includes a -10dB pad and 80Hz high-pass filter for advanced sound shaping
Ideal for capturing vocals and acoustic instruments

Product specs

Brand	Warm Audio
Model	WA-87 Large Diaphragm Multipattern Condenser Microphone
Finish	Black, Nickel
Year	2016 - 2020
Made In	United States
Categories	Microphones
Electronics	Solid State
Microphone Type	Large-Diaphragm Condenser
Polar Pattern	Multipattern
Wired/Wireless	Wired

FAQs

Does the Warm Audio WA-87 require phantom power?: Yes, the Warm Audio WA-87 requires 48V of phantom power to operate.
What polar patterns does the Warm Audio WA-87 offer?: The Warm Audio WA-87 features a multipattern design, offering cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8 polar patterns for versatile recording applications.
Is the Warm Audio WA-87 suitable for recording vocals?: Yes, the Warm Audio WA-87 is highly suitable for recording vocals, providing a smooth bass and midrange with a pristine top end, which enhances vocal clarity and presence.
What is the frequency response of the Warm Audio WA-87?: The frequency response of the Warm Audio WA-87 ranges from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, capturing a wide spectrum of sound with clarity.
Can the Warm Audio WA-87 handle high sound pressure levels?: Yes, the Warm Audio WA-87 can handle high sound pressure levels, with a maximum SPL of 132 dB with the pad engaged, making it suitable for loud sound sources.

Videos

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Radio.co

Warm Audio WA87 vs Neumann U87: Which is Better?

Radio.co

Warm Audio WA-87 Mic Review / Test (Comparison to U87 Ai)

Podcastage

Mic Shootout: WARM AUDIO WA87 vs NEUMANN TLM103

Booth Junkie

87-Style Male Vocal Mic Shootout: Warm Audio WA87 vs Neumann U87Ai vs Peluso P87

soundpurestudios

Why You Need the Warm Audio WA-87 Microphone

Fuzz City Records

Reviews

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PROS

Warm, natural sound enhances recordings
Smooths out harsh transients in vocals
Less sibilance compared to other mics
Solid aluminum frame in newer versions
Versatile for various recording needs (vocals, acoustic, ensemble)
Provides a more affordable Neumann U87-like experience

CONS

Build quality varies by production batch
Some units have cheap, hollow-feeling components
Grille may come loose with rough handling
Sounds slightly darker and less detailed than a U87
Thin in the low mids compared to higher-end models

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Warm Audio WA-87.

Comparisons

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The WA87 R2 is reportedly darker with a lower output than the U87ai, mimicking a late 60s U87 sound without the top end boost.
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Owners compare the WA-87 R2 to the Mojave 201, citing the latter as a superior option, but note budget constraints for some users.
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The WA-87 R2 is described as outperforming the Lewitt 441 Flex and Rode NT1 5th in terms of clarity and sound level.
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The NT1-A is suggested by some as a reliable sub-$1k alternative, praised for its stability and high detail.
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User experience

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Owners note the WA87 R2 excels in mid and mid-upper range smoothness, providing a warmer, bigger, and smoother tone compared to the original U87.
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There's a consensus among multiple users that the WA-87 R2 offers a strong balance of quality and affordability, making it a preferred choice for many.
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Some users report the WA-87 requires significantly more gain to achieve desired levels compared to other mics like the Bluebird.
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Build quality

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Some users express concerns about the build quality, citing that Warm Audio mics may use rebranded Chinese components, affecting longevity and consistency.
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Concerns exist over misleading spec sheets, with important specs missing or unclear, impacting perceived performance.
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Value and pricing

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It's suggested that the WA87, priced at $699, may have cost-saving compromises, as critical components like transformers and capsules are expensive.
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A user found a b-stock WA-87 R2 for under $500 in the US, suggesting potential savings for budget-conscious buyers.
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Use cases and applications

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The WA87 R2 is favored for its ability to take processing well and fit into mixes with a classic sound enhanced by a modern twist.
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It is highly recommended for vocals and acoustic guitar, with positive feedback on its performance in these areas.
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The WA-87's self-noise may be problematic when heavily compressing rock vocals, as noted by users who experienced increased noise.
Source

Critic Reviews

Warm Audio WA-87

soundonsound.com

Warm Audio's WA-87 microphone aims to capture the essence of the iconic Neumann U87 at a fraction of the cost but falls short in replicating its mid-range warmth. While the WA-87 is a versatile studio all-rounder with a commendable high-frequency presence, it can sound slightly thin compared to a vintage U87, especially on drums and percussion. The shiny finish and conventional toggle switch may seem less premium, yet it remains a good-sounding, affordable option for various sources. Ultimately, it's best to value the WA-87 on its own merits rather than as a precise U87 clone.

neutral

Full Review

Warm Audio WA-87 Microphone Review | Radio.co

radio.co

The Warm Audio WA-87 excels as a budget-friendly alternative to the classic Neumann U87, delivering impressive performance at just a fraction of the price. The mic's solid build, housed in a nickel-painted tantalum alloy, ensures durability, while its versatile polar patterns make it suitable for various recording settings. The WA-87 captures audio cleanly, often eliminating the need for additional filters or EQ during recordings. While it outshines lower-end mics like the Behringer B-1 in terms of tone and warmth, its true strength lies in replicating the classic U87's sound profile for a new generation. Ideal for voice-overs, music, and live radio, it offers superb quality for its price point, making it a top choice for studios on a budget.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 13 Ratings

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frank_hyperion

300

over 8 years ago

A great mic for under a grand

This is an good mic, albeit a bit thin in the low mids. It is the best 87 style microphone I've used besides an actual U87ai. It is a touch grittier in the high mids and not as smooth as a Neumann U87ai. It is its own kinda U87 style sound. It is a good mic in its own right and is currently my go to vocal mic of the ones I own.

jimmarchi1

40997

8 years ago over 8 years ago

I've been dying for an unbiased review or this 87 clone... there's 2 potential sources of the grit, first this mic clone the originally 70s issue of the 87 and the microphone has changed capsules and some other components since then during a round of 'improvements'.... but Warm also uses proprietary output transformers and who knows how they compare what Neumann uses.