Warm Audio WA12 MKII Black: Give your Audio the “Bite” it Deserves
The Warm Audio WA12 MKII Black is designed to do one thing very well: make your recordings sound bigger and more exciting. Many modern audio interfaces have transparent but “brave” preamps. The WA12 MKII is the exact opposite. It adds subtle harmonic distortion and a powerful midrange, allowing instruments and vocals to immediately claim their place in the mix.
The Power of CineMag and the X731 Op-Amp
The secret to the Warm Audio WA12 MKII is in the components. Warm Audio uses custom-wound CineMag USA transformers that provide a rich, analog texture. At the heart of the amplification is the X731 discrete op-amp. Based on the classic 2520 style, it is responsible for the fast transient response that American rock and pop records are known for. Because the op-amp is socketed, advanced users can even replace it with other vintage ones.
Unique Tone Control and Output Control
The Warm Audio WA12 MKII offers more flexibility than the average preamp:
Tone switch: Changes the input impedance. This has a dramatic effect on the sound of your microphone. It provides a “boost” in character without having to touch an EQ.
Output Attenuator: Allows you to drive (“push”) the preamp hard for additional analog saturation, while keeping the output level to your interface low to avoid clipping.
Hi-Z Instrument Input: The 2 Meg Ohm input on the front is perfect for guitars and bass guitars, maintaining all definition and “body.”
Why the Black Edition?
The Black version offers the same award-winning performance as the original, but in a sleek, modern black finish that looks great in any 19-inch rack. It is an indispensable tool for anyone who wants to record drums (especially snare and kick), electric guitars or powerful vocals with a professional, analog edge.
Technical Specifications Warm Audio WA12 MKII
Type: Single-Channel Discrete Mic Preamp / DI.
Gain: 71 dB.
Transformers: CineMag USA Input & Output.
Op-Amp: X731 (discrete 2520-style, replaceable).
Inputs: XLR (rear), 1/4″ Hi-Z (front).
Outputs: Balanced XLR and TRS.
Features: Phantom, Tone switch, -20dB Pad, Polarity Invert.
