Warm Audio WA-14CL Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone Nickel

Warm Audio is ablaze with their innovative reproductions of revolutionary studio equipment. The WA-14CL is a true-to-spec recreation of an exceedingly rare version of a ubiquitous workhorse condenser. Noted for its truthful and exacting sound reproduction, the original second-gen C414 EB was a hit among engineers and artists seeking tones reflective of the performance, with minimal coloration from the mic used to record it. Inspired by that legendary ’70s microphone, the Warm Audio WA-14CL shares an all-brass capsule and, most importantly, the sonic signature with the unicorn condenser. An extra spark of analog goodness comes courtesy of the WA-14CL’s transformer-balanced output, provided by a premium supplier, CineMag USA. This all-around large-diaphragm condenser is a tinderbox for red-hot vocals, guitars, strings, overheads and nearly any other source you put in front of it.  

Custom CK12-style Capsule

Warm Audio went to painstaking lengths to develop a custom CK12-style capsule that embodies the essence of a microphone famously preferred by artists like Freddie Mercury, The Smashing Pumpkins, Common, Green Day and The Police. Research and development led to a solid brass, dual-diaphragm capsule spec’d to match the detail, excitement and honesty of the original. The WA-14CL captures the same crystalline top end popularized by retro classics, making it a standard choice for vocals and acoustic instruments—intricate, intimate performances come alive through the Warm Audio reincarnation. Controlled bass, luminous mids and expressive highs lend themselves to a balanced, inspiring sound worthy of the “workhorse” designation.

Output Transformer Applies Analog Heat

A custom CineMag USA transformer balances the output of the Warm Audio WA-14CL, and imparts it with fullness and precision not found in any other reissues or emulations. This pivotal component coaxes the unmistakable character out of the brass capsule, enabling the WA-14CL to perform like a modern classic. Because transformers tend to subtly resonate at the bottom and top ends of the spectrum, they shape a sense of richer lows and airier highs in microphones. The WA-14CL is still a predominantly transparent condenser, sympathetic to its inspiration, but with just enough analog distinction to be a desirable complement to ultraclean digital recording systems.