[Product Review] Warm Audio Mic ＆ Processor by Kenji Nakai

The first of two days of the “Recording & Mixing Workshop by Kenji Nakai” focused on micing with a half-day workshop in which all parts of a five-piece ensemble (drums, bass, guitar, keyboards, and vocals) were recorded. From rhythm recording to dubbing, vocals, and chorus, the workshop included a half-day workshop in which all parts were completed in half a day with all the smaller parts. We had the opportunity to use many Warm Audio microphones, mic pre's, compressors, and other equipment.

Q. What were your impressions of the microphones and processors used in this project?

• WA-251 x 2：Drums overhead
  The overall balance of the drums was good. It had a clear and realistic sound.
• WA-14 x 3 : Tam Tams
  They provided the solid character and rich mid-low range sound quality of the C414EB.
• WA-84 x 2 : Hats, etc.
  The sound was clear and grating, similar to that of the KM84.
• WA-CX12 x1、WA-47 x1 : Vocals
  WA-CX12 : Bright and clear tone.
  WA-47 : Full midrange is very attractive.
• WA73-EQ x 4 Kick and Snare
  Good sounding and high density sound of Class-A preamplifier.
• WA-1B x1
  Used for acoustic guitar. Slightly brighter sound quality compared to the original.

Q. What kind of user would you recommend to try Warm Audio microphones?

First of all, we recommend multi-pattern solid-state mics that are easy to use and versatile. In particular, the WA-14 that I used for the tom-toms this time left a good impression.

Q. What do you feel makes Warm Audio microphones superior to microphones from other brands?

First of all, there’s cost performance. A pair of Warm Audio microphones can be used for a wider range of applications than a single high-priced microphone of the same type of model.

Q. What are the differences between the WA-CX12 and the WA-47, and what type of vocals are they suited for?

I would like to try the bright open sounding WA-CX12 for vocals with a slightly husky voice, while the WA-47 is better suited for vocals with a wider dynamic range and more volume and overtones.

Q. Which users would you recommend to try Warm Audio's WA73-EQ mic preamp?

First, you should use the WA73-EQ to experience the quality of a class-A preamplifier, and then use that as your own standard to consider moving up to the next level.

Q. What do you feel makes Warm Audio's WA73-EQ superior to other brands of mic preamps?

The WA73-EQ is more versatile and visible than its vintage counterparts, with many additional features, EQ points, and LED meters.

Q. What settings do you recommend on the WA-73EQ for each application and sound you are aiming for?

I use it on the kick and snare, and set the gain high to get a punchy sound.

Q. What points do you pay attention to when setting up the WA73-EQ?

Start by making sure the defaults are phase off, TONE off, HPF off, and all EQ off.

Q. The WA73-EQ has a TONE switch. What is your impression of the tone when it is on or off?

Depending on the type of microphone and sound source, there are times when effective results are obtained and other times when there is not much change.

Q. What kind of user would you recommend Warm Audio's compressor WA-1B to?

Like the original, it can be used for almost anything, including vocals, guitar, and bass.

Q. What do you feel makes Warm Audio's WA-1B compressor superior to compressors from other brands?

It has similar functions and sound quality to the original, but at a lower price.

Q. What settings do you recommend for the WA-1B, depending on the application and the sound you are aiming for?

Except for special effects, I recommend medium attack, medium release with a 2:1 ratio and a 3-4dB of reduction at the peaks.

Q. What points do you pay attention to when setting up the WA-1B?

I determine the attack time by focusing on the character of the sound I’m looking for, especially the attack to decay. Avoid overcompression.

Q. How and why did you choose to use Warm Audio products?

I chose the WA73-EQ because of its features and price, after purchasing several 1073-type preamplifiers with excellent sound quality. Currently, I own four of these units.

Q. What was the reaction of the participants to this seminar?

The clear sound quality of the kick and snare using the WA73-EQ and the realistic sound of the tom-toms captured by the WA-14 were very well received.

Q. Could you give a message to those who are considering Warm Audio products?

Warm Audio's lineup covers a wide range of microphones, preamps, compressors, and the like. If possible, I recommend that you listen to the actual sound of the equipment with your own ears to see if you like it or not. Among them, I personally like the WA73-EQ and WA-14.