Warm Audio WA12 MKII Black

Professional music gear - detailed information and where to buy

Warm Audio WA12 MKII Black

Warm Audio

WA12 MKII Black

5 Expert Rating

Product Info

Article Number: 503465
Model: WA12 MKII Black
Category: Preamps
Price: $504.90

* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.

The WA12 MKII Black is a fantastic, affordable preamp for adding some serious grit and character to vocals or instruments. It nails that classic, slightly overdriven sound without being overly colored – perfect for rock, blues, and anything needing a bit more edge. If you want a taste of vintage Neve vibes on a budget, this is a solid choice.

Product Description

  • Warm Audio WA12 MKII Black
  • 1-Channel Microphone and Instrument Preamplifier
  • 71 dB gain
  • Cinemag USA input and output transformers
  • Socketed Discrete OpAmp: X731 (Vintage)
  • TONE switch - switching the input impedance from 600 to 150 ohms
  • Microphone input: XLR
  • Rear Hi-Z input: 6.3 mm jack
  • Balanced outputs: XLR and 6.3 mm jack
  • 48 V phantom power
  • -20 dB pad
  • Phase reversal switch
  • LED meter: output level control for adjustable saturation effects
  • Built-in 115/230 volt IEC power supply
  • Format: 9.5"/ 1 U
PROS
  • • Cinemag transformers deliver a thick, vintage-flavored warmth.
  • • Socketed X731 op-amp offers a pleasing, aggressive character.
  • • TONE switch provides genuine input impedance flexibility for varied sources.
  • • Robust build quality with solid metal chassis and reliable components.
CONS
  • • Gain staging can be tricky; requires careful monitoring to avoid harshness.
  • • Limited to a single channel, restricting multi-mic recording scenarios.
  • • While versatile, it’s not a transparent, neutral preamp.

Product Video

Key Features

Channels 1
Preamp Type Discrete Class A
Gain Range 71 dB
Phantom Power 48 V
Connections XLR, 6.3 mm jack (Hi-Z), XLR, 6.3 mm jack (balanced)
Weight 9.5 in

Similar Products

Palmer Monicon S G2 - Studio Monitor Controllers

Palmer Monicon S G2

Studio Monitor Controllers

$54
Passive Monitor Controller, Inputs: 1 x Stereo (RCA), Outputs: 1x Stereo (RCA), MONO switch for...
4.7 Expert Rating
Kawai K-200 ATX 4 WDB Piano - Pianos

Kawai K-200 ATX 4 WDB Piano

Pianos

$9,119
Piano, With AnytimeX-4 equipment, Millennium III mechanics with ABS carbon parts of...
4.5 Expert Rating
Teenage Engineering TP-7 Black - Portable Recorders

Teenage Engineering TP-7 Black

Portable Recorders

$1,649
Multi-Track Field Recorder, Three TRRS mini jack sockets - each can be configured as a...
5 Expert Rating
Fluid Audio FX80 V2 Bundle - Active Nearfield Monitors

Fluid Audio FX80 V2 Bundle

Active Nearfield Monitors

$403
4.4 Expert Rating
Ibanez GRGR221PA-AQB Bundle - ST Style Guitars

Ibanez GRGR221PA-AQB Bundle

ST Style Guitars

$325
5 Expert Rating
Thomann Home Studio Bundle - Studio Packages

Thomann Home Studio Bundle

Studio Packages

$164
4.8 Expert Rating
Ekustik Woody Queen Absorber Oak Creme - Broadband Acoustic Absorbers

Ekustik Woody Queen Absorber Oak Creme

Broadband Acoustic Absorbers

$318
Absorber, For medium and high frequencies, For optimising the room sound in...
4.6 Expert Rating
Palmer Monicon M G2 - Studio Monitor Controllers

Palmer Monicon M G2

Studio Monitor Controllers

$98
Passive Monitor Controller, Inputs: 1x balanced XLR/TRS combo socket (stereo), 1x 3.5mm stereo...
4.8 Expert Rating

Frequently Asked Questions

Switching the input impedance alters the interaction with different microphones, often darkening or brightening the tone depending on the mic’s output characteristics.
Yes, the socketed design allows for op-amp swapping, opening up a range of tonal possibilities – plenty of aftermarket options exist.
It’s a strong contender; the Cinemag transformers and X731 op-amp offer a unique sonic signature compared to some competitors, providing a more aggressive and characterful sound.

We use cookies to improve your experience. Learn more