Warm Audio Revives A 90s Classic With The WA-8000 Microphone

Warm Audio is known for its wallet-friendly recreations of classic microphones with best sellers like the WA-67, WA-47, WA-47jr, and WA-87. With its latest release, the brand is reviving another Mt. Rushmore-worthy mic and this time it's something that engineers have been craving since the heyday of the 1990s.

The Warm Audio WA-8000 ($1,199) is a large diaphragm tube condenser microphone that finds its inspiration in a legend from the 1990s. This legendary microphone was a staple of the hip-hop, R&B and pop world over 20 years ago and has been used on tracking sessions ever since. The lineup of influential users reads like an induction class for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame; Dr. Dre, Toni Braxton, Boyz II Men, Eminem, Mariah Carey and countless others.

“The WA-8000 is faithfully inspired by the most iconic hip-hop and R&B microphone ever designed," says Warm Audio CEO Bryce Young. "We spent a ton of time developing the WA-8000, making sure all of the premium components worked together magically to produce the classic R&B sound we all know and love."

So what's the formula that makes up the WA-8000? We're glad you asked. The microphone features a Swedish-made Lundahl transformer, an all-brass K67-style capsule and NOS 6AU6 tubes. Just like the original, Warm Audio has created a custom-designed external tube mount and heat sink component that lowers self noise and keeps the microphone operating at the proper temperature.

Warm Audio WA-8000 Quick Specs:

Frequency Response: 20Hz–20kHz
Max SPL: 131dB (cardioid), 134dB (omni)
Output Impedance: 100 ohms
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 76dB (cardioid), 73dB (omni)
Sensitivity: -33dB/Pa (cardioid), -36dB/Pa (omni)
Self-Noise: 15dB (A-weighted) cardioid, 17dB (A-weighted) omni
Tube: NOS 6AU6
Power Source: External 7-pin power supply (included)

If you're interested in purchasing the WA-8000 microphone or any other gear from Warm Audio, we're here to help! Please contact a Vintage King Audio Consultant via email or by phone at 866.644.0160.