Warm audio WA-CX24

Warm Audio WA-CX24 is aimed at demanding home-studists and studios who want to capture a wide, accurate and natural stereo image. You're looking for a tube microphone capable of giving depth to a take, without falling into aggressive highs. Place it in front of piano, vocals or drums, and you'll immediately get space and depth. The WA-CX24 is clearly aimed at "serious but realistic" budgets, with accessible vintage sound.

Features

Two brass CK12 capsules: rich, lively sound

The two double-diaphragm capsules, inspired by the CK12 design, produce a highly musical sound. You'll enjoy clean lows, naturally dense mids and smooth highs. As a result, your takes gain texture, without becoming glossy or tiring to mix.

Stereo tube microphone: a real sense of depth

The 12AY7 tube brings the warmth and flexibility typical of great studio mics. It's ideal if you want a take that "breathes": more present vocals, wider piano, airier acoustic guitars. You can also better capture the ambience of a room, without losing the center of the sound.

180° rotating upper capsule: simple, precise placement

You set the angle exactly as you want it, and easily do it again at the next session. This 180° rotation helps you adjust your stereo without struggling with phase problems. Very handy when you often change your pickup configuration.

9 pick-up patterns per capsule: adapt the microphone to each source

Each capsule offers 9 positions, from omnidirectional to figure-8, plus several intermediate steps. You can easily choose the amount of ambience and stereo aperture. Perfect for switching from an intimate vocal to a more "roomy" take, or for sculpting a wide, stable piano take.

Multiple stereo configurations: XY, Blumlein, Mid-Side... and more

The WA-CX24 lets you quickly realize the stereo techniques most commonly used in the studio. XY for a solid center, Blumlein for an immersive image, Mid-Side to adjust width after recording. You have just one microphone, but a real palette of results.

TAB-Funkenwerk transformers: top-of-the-range output

TAB-Funkenwerk (AMI) USA transformers bring definition and coherence to transients. The mic can handle up to 149 dB SPL, so you can place it in front of drums or percussion without fear. And with a 30 Hz - 20 kHz response, you'll keep the low end and the air.

What we like / What we need to know

• Stereo tube sound: wide, deep, very "studio".
• CK12 brass capsules: clean bass, smooth highs, very musical.
• 9 polar patterns per capsule: a real recording tool, not a gadget.
• 180° rotating capsule: rapid placement, reproducible adjustment.
• 5 m 9-pin Gotham cable + external power supply: easy installation, but space is at a premium.
• Size and weight (356 x 50 mm / 1.4 kg): this is an imposing microphone, so you'll need a good stand.

FAQ

Who is the Warm Audio WA-CX24 designed for?

Anyone who wants a high-end stereo microphone for the serious studio or home studio. It's perfect if you're recording piano, vocals, acoustic guitars, drum rooms or ambiences, with a stable, detailed stereo image.

Can I use it with drums or percussion?

Yes. It can handle up to 149 dB SPL, so it can be used overhead, in a room or in front of percussion. The result is a wide, coherent image with plenty of relief, without premature saturation.

Which stereo technique is easiest to use?

XY is the most straightforward: you keep a solid center and a clean, easy-to-mix stereo. It's a good place to start if you're just starting out with a stereo mic, before exploring Blumlein or Mid-Side.

Are the polar patterns adjustable from the microphone?

No, they can be adjusted from the external power supply via rotary selectors. This is more practical during sessions, and avoids having to manipulate the mic once it's in place. Each capsule has 9 independent positions.

Do I need a special preamp?

No. Like all tube microphones, it appreciates a good preamp, but it works very well with a serious audio interface. The key is to give it a stable stand, good placement and the right room.