Warm Audio WA-2MPX 2-channel Tube Mic/Line/Instrument Preamp

It had to happen sooner or later. Leave it to the innovators at Warm Audio to build a microphone preamp based on the tube electronics of the iconic American professional tape machine that recorded countless radio-ready hits during the golden age of analog. From the rock pioneers of the ’50s and ‘60s to today’s sound-savvy artists, the legendary “351” has been the secret sauce in the signal chain that delivers the vintage-flavored warmth and color we all seek in our own recordings. The Warm Audio WA-2MPX 2-channel tube mic/line/instrument preamp incorporates an original-spec circuit design, authentically reproducing the coveted analog sonics of the original. Handwired and hand assembled using only premium, all-discrete components, including custom-wound, original-spec large-core CineMag USA transformers, the WA-2MPX serves up instant “sounds-like-a-record” punch for tracks that blast right out of the speakers. But there’s so much more to this amazing preamp that makes it indispensable to modern hybrid studio workflows.

FEATURES

• Authentic reproduction of the coveted “351” tape machine tube preamp
• Fully discrete, handwired and handbuilt construction with 90dB of clean analog tube gain
• Selectable Tape saturation adds harmonic distortion and natural compression for authentic analog grit
• Custom-wound, large-core CineMag USA transformers
• Tone switch modifies mic input transformer impedance for mic optimization or extra analog color
• 600Ω output attenuator
• Vacuum tube complement, per channel: premium 12AX7 (x 2), 12AU7 (x 1)
• Preamp Gain: 70dB, 90dB with High Gain engaged
• High Gain control engages third tube in the circuit, adding 20dB of clean gain for low-output mics and quiet sources
• 48V phantom power; polarity switch
• 80Hz highpass filter controls unruly low frequencies
• 2kHz lowpass filter focuses power and warmth on mids for added punch
• Inputs: XLR Mic, TRS Line, TS Instrument
• Outputs: line-level XLR and TRS
• VU Meter Level Indication
• Frequency response: 20Hz–20kHz

SPECIFICATIONS

• Preamp Type:Tube
• Number of Channels:2
• Phantom Power:Yes
• Polarity Switch:Yes
• Tubes:4 x 12AX7, 2 x 12AU7
• Analog Inputs:2 x XLR, 2 x 1/4" TRS, 1 x 1/4" Hi-Z (front)
• Analog Outputs:2 x XLR, 2 x 1/4"
• Frequency Response:20Hz-20kHz
• Additional Features:80Hz highpass filter, 2kHz lowpass filter
• Rack Spaces:2U
• Power Source:Standard IEC AC cable
• Height:3.5"
• Width:19"