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[Product Review] Warm Audio WA-84 by Haruki Ishida

2025-09-09

This mic is a reproduction model of the legendary Neumann KM 84-style vintage small-diaphragm condenser microphone, and it’s characterized by its delicate and clear high frequencies and rich low-mid response. I’d like to try it out.

WARM AUDIO / WA-84 STEREO PAIR NICKEL

WARM AUDIO / WA-84 STEREO PAIR BLACK

A musician friend of mine also uses it and really likes it. The sound on the piano is especially impressive.

I recorded various instruments with it, so try comparing their characteristics.

Saxophone

It delivers a clear, well-defined sound typical of a condenser mic.
Compared to the ASTON condenser I usually use, the high frequencies are smoother and the overall balance is better.

Grand Piano

While the original tone is quite wild, this mic gives it a slightly more mellow character.
There’s a smooth transition from the midrange to the highs.

Percussion

The metallic shimmer is captured with a smooth and well-balanced tone.

Drums

The cymbals sound soft and the toms were captured with plenty of body.
When mixed, the cymbals don’t overpower, making it easier to create a tight overall drum sound.

Compared to the well-regarded, affordable MXL CR21 PAIR, this mic especially stands out for its delicate mid-to-high frequencies that sound fairly natural.
Because it’s small, having this stereo mic means you can flexibly handle sudden recording sessions on the go.

I believe this mic is the best choice when you want to capture delicate sounds!

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WARM AUDIO (53)

Haruki Ishida

Composer/Producer/Multi-instrumentalist
2025年EP「sanctuary 」リリース(All instruments & programming)
サックスをメインにキーボードやギター、ドラムなどで様々なアーティストのサポートや自身のスタジオ「atelier:haru」にてレコーディングや楽曲制作など行なっている。