The Warm Audio WA-47F Cardioid Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone is a precise reproduction of a renowned high-SPL, low-noise condenser microphone celebrated as a "secret weapon" in top-tier studios worldwide. Originally unveiled in 1969, the '47-style FET gained immense popularity within recording studios for its exceptional ability to capture fast transients with extraordinary detail. In comparison to popular tube microphones, the WA-47F boasts a purer high end and a more defined, controllable bass response.

Renowned artists such as Dave Grohl and Daft Punk utilized the original 47FET on kick drums, inspiring countless drummers and engineers. Vocal legends like David Lee Roth and Michael Stipe employed the original to create some of the most beloved music in history. The WA-47F faithfully replicates the sonic profile of this original microphone, making it a versatile studio workhorse that quickly becomes a go-to choice for recording engineers.

Constructed with premium components and elite build quality, the WA-47F is a no-nonsense studio tool. Unlike the original, it replaces the tube with solid-state FETs, ensuring a rich midrange, detailed bass, and exceptional handling of loud sound sources. At its core, the WA-47F utilizes a premium reproduction of the vintage K47-style capsule found in the original microphone, renowned for its ultra-wide frequency response and detail. This capsule is paired with a custom TAB-Funkenwerk USA output transformer, which drives the powerful, punchy sound captured by the capsule. The WA-47F incorporates premium Fairchild FETs, polystyrene and Wima capacitors, and the AMI output transformer, resulting in an ideal frequency response that captures exceptional detail and depth. A -10dB pad provides extra headroom for loud sources, while the included 140 Hz low-cut filter eliminates unwanted bass frequencies on sources like lead vocals or electric guitar cabinets.

Similar to the original, the WA-47F's custom-tuned frequency response excels in capturing powerful kick drum sounds, punchy guitar and bass cabinets, and adds a pristine edge to solo vocals. Many engineers choose to complement a dynamic microphone placed inside the kick drum with a 47FET-style microphone on the outside of the kick drum's front head. The dynamic microphone captures the "snap" of the kick, while the WA-47F captures the "thump" and air pressure "boom" of the resonant kick drum head, adding depth and dimension to the sound. The original microphone was selected to capture iconic vocals including Bon Scott (AC/DC), David Lee Roth (Van Halen), and REM's Michael Stipe. The WA-47F delivers powerful, detailed vocals, ranging from intense rock to soft falsettos. The original microphone is also a favorite for tracking guitar and bass cabinets, particularly for loud, percussive guitar parts. The condenser capsule's openness and the circuit's ability to handle high-SPL levels allow for capturing loud guitar tones without compromising detail.

The WA-47F is housed in an ultra-durable nickel-plated brass body with an updated headbasket design. Each WA-47F undergoes meticulous hand-inspection at Warm HQ in Austin, Texas by passionate musicians and engineers dedicated to superior sound.

Key Features

• The WA-47-B-50v capsule replicates the K47-style capsule from the original 47Fet mic, offering exceptional detail in the 20Hz-19kHz frequency range.
  
• Features an American-made TAB (AMI) transformer designed by Oliver Archut, ensuring a sweet sonic character.
  
• Premium Fairchild FETs and high-quality capacitors provide excellent signal conversion in the WA-47F.
  
• Encased in a durable nickel-plated brass body, the WA-47F boasts an authentic appearance and elite build quality.
  
• Each WA-47F undergoes meticulous hand-inspection at Warm HQ in Austin, TX, ensuring superior sound quality.

Technical Specifications

General Information
Gold Sputtered, Large Diaphragm, Single Backplate, K47 Style Capsule
Custom TAB-Funkenwerk (AMI) USA Output Transformer
Premium Fairchild Transistors
Wima and Polystyrene Capacitors
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Max SPL
137dB, 147 dB with 10dB pad engaged
Frequency Response
20Hz-19kHz
Output Impedance
150 ohms
Rated Load Impedance
> 1 kOhms
Pads and Filters
- 10dB pad, 140 Hz low-cut filter
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (+ weighted)
69 dB, 76 dB-A
EIN / Self-noise (+ weighted)
25dB, 18 dB-A
Total Weight
3.5lbs
Mic only
2lbs
Mic Dimensions
8" x 2.75" (20.3 cm x 7 cm)