Warm Audio WA-CX12 Tube Condenser Microphone

FAITHFUL RECREATION OF THE MOST NATURAL AND BALANCED TUBE MICROPHONE OF ALL TIME

The Warm Audio WA-CX12 Tube Condenser Microphone is a professional large-diaphragm tube microphone with premium components, elite build quality, and is hand-inspected in Austin, Texas. The circuit design of the WA-CX12 is faithful to the original production run from 1953-1963, and serves as the basis for the historically accurate sound profile. Like the original, the WA-CX12 tone is mostly flat until a slight dip at 2kHz with a gradual boost between 5-10kHz. At the beginning of the chain, the CX12 has an edge-terminated, all-brass CK12-style capsule, that stays true to the frequency response of the original-run 12-style microphones. This capsule allows the WA-CX12 to have 9 polar patterns with the typical cardioid, omni, and figure-8, in addition to 6 intermediate patterns. Moving down from the capsule, the WA-CX12 uses a premium 12AY7 vacuum tube for added warmth. At the end of the circuit, the WA-CX12 uses a custom TAB-Funkenwerk (AMI) USA Output Transformer, which gives the WA-CX12 a very full, wide, and open sound, getting the most out of the capsule and additional circuit components. The WA-CX12 has premium capacitors throughout, and a no-solder mask board for the lowest noise possible. 

The WA-CX12 sound profile is known for capturing the real sound of a performance. Designed to provide clarity in the midrange and smooth out any high end harshness, the WA-CX12 delivers professional solo vocals, intricate piano performances, and epic, natural room sounds.

Piano

One of the more popular studio uses for the original 12-style microphone is as a stereo pair on grand piano. Because of the mic’s relatively flat frequency at 0dB until the top-end boost kicks in, the WA-CX12 adds just the right amount of pristine high end to a piano performance.

Room Sounds

Whether it’s room reflections, splashy cymbals, or guitar & bass cabinets - mixing in a distant WA-CX12 can bring a natural “live” sound to professional recordings.

Technical Specifications

• Custom Edge Terminated, All-Brass Vintage CK12-Style Capsule 

• Custom TAB-Funkenwerk (AMI) USA Output Transformer 

• Premium 12AY7 Vacuum Tube

• Premium Capacitors

• Polar Patterns: 9 Patterns - Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Figure-8, + 6 additional mixed patterns

• Max SPL: 149dB

• Frequency Response: 30Hz-20kHz

• Output Impedance: 200 Ohms

• Signal-To-Noise Ratio: 73dB

• EIN / Self-Noise: 22dBA

• Total Weight: 17 Lbs, Mic Only: 2lbs 7oz

• Mic Dimensions: 11 ⅝” x 2” (29.5cm x 5cm)

• Included Accessories: Custom Tweed Carrying Case, External IEC Grounded PSU, IEC Power Cable, Premium Gotham 5 Meter 7-Pin Tube Microphone Cable, Wood Microphone Box, Shockmount