Description

If you are looking for a high-quality microphone preamp at a good price that does a little more than just raise the volume, then the WA12 MKII is just right for you. Version two of Warm Audio's popular microphone preamp comes with +71db gain and two USA CineMag transformers, more headroom, lower noise and works perfectly for all types of recordings.

The WA12 MKII is based around a discrete op-amp, the X731, which is our own reproduction of the vintage classic Melcor 1731, considered by some to be the warmer predecessor to the modern 2520-style op-amp. The X731 can achieve vibrant, clean and lifelike tones; but can also be driven into mild saturation at much higher gain levels. The effects can be subtle, but very pleasing to the ear. The WA12 MKII can also accept any discrete op-amp on the market which conforms to the +/-16v, 2520 pinout standard.

When developing the WA12 MKII our ears played a big part in the design process. Using CineMag USA transformers and an all discrete signal path ensured that the WA12 MKII would have the building blocks to compete with the best sounding preamps on the market. Warm Audio are very proud to offer such a robust/professional design in a small and affordable package.

Specifications

• Premium grade input and output usa CineMag transformers.
• Utilizes a discrete 6-pin socketed 1731 style opamp. can be replaced with other 6-pin "2520 foot-print" opamps for varying tone/flavor.
• 20db pad
• Tone button – switches the input impedance from 600 ohms to 150 ohms. changes the tone of both the mic and hi-z inputs.
• 2 meg hm true hi-z input on front panel. sends instrument signal through entire circuit including both CineMag transformers and discrete opamp. great for guitars, bass, keyboards and other instruments that have a 1/4″ output jack.
• LED meter gain indication.
• Output attenuation control (after the CineMag output transformer) allows for driving the preamp and transformers into saturation.