The Warm Audio WA-19 dynamic studio microphone aims to resurrect one of the most iconic mics of the 1960s. It features a 30Hz – 18Khz frequency response, 145dB max SPL, and superb off-axis rejection from its cardioid polar pattern. A built-in highpass filter is a very welcome addition: it can cut down to -10dB at 50Hz, making the WA-19 ideal for use on drum overheads, toms, vocals, snare bottom, guitar cabs, and more. The ventilated slots on the body of the WA-19 also reduce proximity effect, making it a great choice for acoustic guitar as well as guitar cabinets. Finally, the WA-19’s thin body shape facilitates easy placement, and while it may be thin, it’s built to last.
The WA-19 is an exemplary clone of a classic mic known as “the Ringo mic” for its association with a certain drummer from Liverpool, though many other artists of the era certainly used it. Those aforementioned four lads often applied “the Ringo mic” as drum overheads. The Warm Audio WA-19 certainly shines in that application, but studio engineers that found the WA-19 is beautiful when your acoustic guitar is gently weeping: its ventilated body slots cut down on proximity effect, meaning you can really get close to the body of the guitar and get a great sound without being too boomy. Plus, the 50Hz highpass filter gives you an even clearer sound.
The pencil-thin body of the WA-19 makes it easy to place in various studio and stage applications. And, no matter where you place it, the WA-19’s elite off-axis rejection, broad 30Hz – 18Khz frequency response, and high max SPL of 145dB all ensure that you can get a natural, focused sound on a huge number of sources.
