What type of microphone is the Warm Audio WA-CX24?

The WA-CX24 is a stereo tube condenser microphone designed for professional studio applications. It utilizes dual capsules and vacuum tube circuitry to capture high-fidelity audio with a rich, vintage character.

How do the rotatable capsules work?

The microphone features two independent capsules where the top capsule can be rotated relative to the bottom one. This allows the user to align the capsules for various stereo techniques like XY or Blumlein without moving the microphone stand.

Which vacuum tube is used in the WA-CX24?

The microphone utilizes a carefully selected 12AY7 vacuum tube. This specific tube is chosen for its ability to provide a warm, harmonically rich tone that complements the dual CK12-style capsules.

Can I switch polar patterns on this microphone?

Yes, the WA-CX24 features independent polar pattern switching. This allows for significant flexibility when setting up different stereo recording configurations or mono-compatible captures.

What stereo techniques can be achieved with the WA-CX24?

Due to its rotatable design and independent patterns, it is suitable for XY, Blumlein, and Mid-Side (M-S) recording setups. These techniques are essential for capturing immersive acoustic environments.

What kind of capsules are inside the WA-CX24?

The microphone is equipped with two CK12-style capsules. These are designed to provide a classic frequency response characterized by clear highs and a detailed midrange.

What brand of transformers are used in the circuit?

The WA-CX24 uses high-quality, USA-made T14 transformers. These components are integral to maintaining signal clarity and providing the desired output impedance for professional studio gear.

What accessories are included with the WA-CX24?

The microphone comes as a complete kit including a custom wood box for the microphone itself, a shockmount, a premium Gotham GAC-9 cable, and a durable tweed flight case for transport.

Is the power supply included?

As a tube microphone, the WA-CX24 requires an external power supply to operate. This unit is included in the package and provides the necessary voltages for the 12AY7 tube and the condenser capsules.

What is the typical price for this microphone?

The WA-CX24 is typically priced at approximately £1,099. This puts it in the professional bracket of studio equipment, offering high-end stereo tube features at a competitive price.

How does it compare to a Shure SM7B?

The WA-CX24 is a stereo tube condenser intended for immersive acoustic captures, whereas the Shure SM7B is a mono dynamic microphone primarily used for vocals and broadcast. They serve entirely different purposes in the studio.

Is the WA-CX24 suitable for home recording?

While it is a professional-grade tool, any user with a high-quality audio interface and a suitable room can use it. Its stereo capabilities are particularly beneficial for home recordists who want to capture piano or acoustic guitar with a sense of space.

Gear article

Warm Audio WA-CX24 Stereo Tube Condenser Microphone

The Warm Audio WA-CX24 is a professional-grade stereo tube condenser microphone designed to capture immersive acoustic detail and expansive stereo imaging. Utilising dual CK12-style capsules and a 12AY7 vacuum tube, it offers engineers a versatile tool for high-fidelity recording in various stereo configurations.

See live prices

Overview

The Warm Audio WA-CX24 is a dedicated stereo microphone system aimed at professional recording environments. It is engineered to deliver a vintage-inspired sound profile while providing modern flexibility for stereo imaging. The microphone's architecture allows it to function as a single-point solution for complex stereo mic techniques, reducing the need for matched pairs of individual microphones.

Design and Key Features

The WA-CX24 features fully rotatable dual capsules, which allow for quick adjustments between different stereo techniques. The inclusion of independent polar pattern switching for each capsule expands its utility beyond standard stereo applications.

Key technical components include: * CK12-style Capsules: Custom-engineered brass capsules designed to provide clear highs and an engaging midrange. * 12AY7 Tube: A carefully selected vacuum tube that contributes to the microphone's warm and rich tonal character. * T14 Transformers: USA-made output transformers that ensure high-quality signal path integrity. * Gotham GAC-9 Cable: A premium 9-pin cable included to connect the microphone to its external power supply unit.

Sound Character

The sound profile of the WA-CX24 is defined by its ability to capture 'immersive' detail. The tube-driven circuitry adds a level of harmonic richness and depth that is often sought after for acoustic instruments and room miking. It is noted for its clarity in the high-frequency range without being overly harsh, complemented by a smooth and present midrange response.

Applications and Stereo Techniques

Because the capsules are rotatable and the polar patterns are independent, the WA-CX24 is highly suited for: * XY Stereo: Ideal for phase-coherent recordings with a natural spread. * Blumlein: Utilizing dual figure-of-eight patterns for a realistic 360-degree soundstage. * Mid-Side (M-S): Allows for adjustable stereo width during the mixing process.

It is particularly effective for capturing grand pianos, drum overheads, choirs, and large orchestral sections where spatial accuracy is paramount.

Comparison and Market Position

At a price point of approximately £1,099, the WA-CX24 occupies a niche for engineers who require a high-end stereo tube solution without the cost of vintage alternatives. While single-capsule options like the Neumann TLM 103 or the Shure SM7B are staples for vocals and broadcast, the WA-CX24 offers a more specialized stereo capability. For those requiring a smaller footprint for overheads, the Neumann KM 185 provides a solid solid-state alternative, but lacks the specific 'tube' character and rotatable stereo flexibility found in the WA-CX24.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What type of microphone is the Warm Audio WA-CX24?: The WA-CX24 is a stereo tube condenser microphone designed for professional studio applications. It utilizes dual capsules and vacuum tube circuitry to capture high-fidelity audio with a rich, vintage character.
How do the rotatable capsules work?: The microphone features two independent capsules where the top capsule can be rotated relative to the bottom one. This allows the user to align the capsules for various stereo techniques like XY or Blumlein without moving the microphone stand.
Which vacuum tube is used in the WA-CX24?: The microphone utilizes a carefully selected 12AY7 vacuum tube. This specific tube is chosen for its ability to provide a warm, harmonically rich tone that complements the dual CK12-style capsules.
Can I switch polar patterns on this microphone?: Yes, the WA-CX24 features independent polar pattern switching. This allows for significant flexibility when setting up different stereo recording configurations or mono-compatible captures.
What stereo techniques can be achieved with the WA-CX24?: Due to its rotatable design and independent patterns, it is suitable for XY, Blumlein, and Mid-Side (M-S) recording setups. These techniques are essential for capturing immersive acoustic environments.
What kind of capsules are inside the WA-CX24?: The microphone is equipped with two CK12-style capsules. These are designed to provide a classic frequency response characterized by clear highs and a detailed midrange.
What brand of transformers are used in the circuit?: The WA-CX24 uses high-quality, USA-made T14 transformers. These components are integral to maintaining signal clarity and providing the desired output impedance for professional studio gear.
What accessories are included with the WA-CX24?: The microphone comes as a complete kit including a custom wood box for the microphone itself, a shockmount, a premium Gotham GAC-9 cable, and a durable tweed flight case for transport.
Is the power supply included?: As a tube microphone, the WA-CX24 requires an external power supply to operate. This unit is included in the package and provides the necessary voltages for the 12AY7 tube and the condenser capsules.
What is the typical price for this microphone?: The WA-CX24 is typically priced at approximately £1,099. This puts it in the professional bracket of studio equipment, offering high-end stereo tube features at a competitive price.
How does it compare to a Shure SM7B?: The WA-CX24 is a stereo tube condenser intended for immersive acoustic captures, whereas the Shure SM7B is a mono dynamic microphone primarily used for vocals and broadcast. They serve entirely different purposes in the studio.
Is the WA-CX24 suitable for home recording?: While it is a professional-grade tool, any user with a high-quality audio interface and a suitable room can use it. Its stereo capabilities are particularly beneficial for home recordists who want to capture piano or acoustic guitar with a sense of space.