Warm Audio WA-14 Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone

The Warm Audio WA-14 is a large-diaphragm, transformer-balanced condenser microphone modeled after the rare early-1970s "EB-circuit" 414-style microphone. It uses a fully discrete signal path with an all-brass CK12-style capsule (WA-12-B-60V), a custom CineMag USA output transformer, and three switchable polar patterns. A variable pad with 0, -10, and -20 dB positions provides headroom for loud sources like drums and amplifiers while retaining the detailed midrange and smooth top end of the original design.

The CK12-style capsule in the WA-14 uses 24k gold-sputtered NOS Japanese Mylar diaphragms on a 1" all-brass, dual-backplate assembly. This capsule design produces the balanced frequency response and natural off-axis character that made the original EB-circuit 414 a staple on drum overheads, acoustic guitars, and vocal sessions throughout the 1970s and 1980s. The CineMag USA transformer preserves the rich detail of the capsule while adding the analog character and controlled bass response of a transformer-coupled output stage.

Three polar patterns (cardioid, omnidirectional, and figure-8) cover a wide range of recording situations, and the three-position pad allows the WA-14 to handle SPLs up to 150 dB at the -20 dB setting. At 0.45 kg, the WA-14 is light enough for overhead stereo pairs without weighing down boom stands.

Specifications

• Type: Condenser
• Capsule: WA-12-B-60V, all-brass CK12-style, dual backplate, 1" diameter, 6-micron, 24k gold-sputtered NOS Japanese Mylar
• Transformer: Custom CineMag USA
• Polar patterns: Cardioid, omnidirectional, figure-8
• Frequency response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
• Max SPL: 138 dB (no pad), 144 dB (-10 dB), 150 dB (-20 dB) at 0.5% THD
• Output impedance: 50 Ohms
• Pad: 0 dB, -10 dB, -20 dB
• Power: 48V phantom power
• Connector: 3-pin gold-plated XLR
• Dimensions: 178 x 64 mm (7" x 2.5")
• Weight: 0.45 kg (1 lb)

In the Box

• WA-14 microphone
• Shockmount
• Mic clip
• Protective pouch