Warm Audio WA-87 R2
A pro-tier FET condenser modeled on an industry-standard studio mic, the WA-87 R2 delivers that familiar FET tone over XLR with standard 48V phantom power. It's a go-to for vocals and broadcast where engineers want a recognizable, reliable large-diaphragm sound. The straightforward phantom-powered XLR setup makes it a dependable studio workhorse and a sober take on a classic voicing.
Scores
BreakdownHideOverall72±6Caliber-forward blend — tier caliber + within-tier price rank 30%, value 25%, confidence 20%, compatibility 15%, upgrade path 10% — renormalized over applicable dimensions; excluded here: compatibility (no ecosystem dimension).
Scores
BreakdownHideCaliber-forward blend — tier caliber + within-tier price rank 30%, value 25%, confidence 20%, compatibility 15%, upgrade path 10% — renormalized over applicable dimensions; excluded here: compatibility (no ecosystem dimension).
The ± band on the overall score reflects sourcing confidence — wider when fewer specs are verified.
How each score is computed: our scoring methodology.
Specifications
| Spec | Value | Verification |
|---|---|---|
| mic type | condenserFlagged | Flagged |
| connection | XLRFlagged | Flagged |
| phantom power required | yesFlagged | Flagged |
0/3 detail specs sourced · 3 flagged for verification. Amber rows are flagged for verification — we show them as reported, not confirmed.
Verdict
Best for
- vocals
- broadcast
- industry-standard FET tone
Who should skip this
- Beginners on a tight budget — the price buys industry-standard FET tone most starters won't yet exploit
- Untreated home rooms — this revealing condenser needs acoustic treatment to sound its best
- Loud, run-and-gun voice work — a dynamic rejects room noise better for that use
Where to buy
List price $599
Prices are a guide and can change — confirm the current price on the retailer's site before buying.
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Compatibility
No platform-specific compatibility requirements — this works in any standard music production setup.
Upgrade path
Buying today, the Shure SM7B scores higher for less — the smarter pick in microphones unless you specifically want this one. See it →