This review dives into the Warm Audio WA251, a microphone aiming to replicate the legendary Telefunken ELAM 251. We will explore its features, build quality and how it stacks up against other popular microphones, including its own siblings from Warm Audio and classic Neumann models.
What's Included and Build Quality
When you unbox the Warm Audio WA251, you'll find a few key items. Inside the package, there's a wooden storage box to keep the microphone safe, the microphone itself, a shock mount with an adapter for different mic stands and a 7-pin XLR cable. You also get the power supply, its power cable, some documentation and a few stickers.
The microphone feels solid, with an all-metal body and a metal mesh grill that has a little bit of give. There are no buttons or switches directly on the mic itself. The bottom features the 7-pin XLR port.
The power supply is also robust and all-metal. It has a handle on top and rubber feet on the bottom to keep it stable. On the front of the power supply, you'll find the polar pattern selector switch, a 3-pin XLR output and the 7-pin XLR input. The back has a power light, a voltage selector, the power supply plug and a satisfying power switch.
Polar Pattern and Sound Tests
The WA251 offers three polar patterns: cardioid, omnidirectional and figure-8. Each pattern captures sound from different directions.
- Cardioid: Picks up sound primarily from the front.
- Omnidirectional: Picks up sound equally from all directions.
- Figure-8: Picks up sound from the front and the rear, with null points at the sides.
Key Takeaways
- Shock Rejection: The microphone and its shock mount are very effective at rejecting low-end rumble from bumps or taps.
- Off-Axis Coloration: The sound coloration when off-axis is mild and not unpleasant.
- Low Self-Noise: For a tube microphone, it has a relatively low self-noise of about 12 dBA.
- Plosive Handling: The microphone isn't the best at rejecting plosives.
- No Microphone Clip: It would be useful to have a microphone clip in addition to the shock mount for easier placement in tight spaces.
Overall Sound and Recommendation
The Warm Audio WA251 has a sound that can be described as slightly V-shaped, but it remains smooth overall. It offers a bit of weight in the bass and low-mids, which can add presence to recordings. The mids are present but not as forward as some other mics, while the treble and air frequencies have a noticeable lift, which is characteristic of a 251-style mic.
However, it's important to remember that this is a clone. While it sounds good on its own merits, don't expect it to perfectly replicate a vintage $10,000 microphone for its $900 price. Buy it because you like the sound it produces, not just because of the name it carries.
