The Warm Audio WA-87jr SE is a budget-friendly large-diaphragm condenser microphone designed to replicate the vintage Neumann U87 sound. Priced at $199, it targets voiceover artists and content creators seeking high-end audio quality without the premium cost.
Built around a gold-sputtered K87-style capsule and a fully discreet signal path, the WA-87jr SE delivers low self-noise (9 dBA), solid proximity effect, and strong resistance to RF interference. It offers a fixed cardioid polar pattern—ideal for voice recording—and lacks onboard switches for pads or filters, simplifying use for vocal applications.
Compared to the Neumann U87 Ai and RODE NT-1 5th Gen, the WA-87jr SE holds its own in clarity and warmth. Sound tests show balanced highs without harshness and a low noise floor (-70 dB in real-world use), making it suitable even for untreated recording spaces.
Notably, the mic shares its capsule with higher-end Warm Audio models but omits extras like a shock mount, switchable polar patterns, and a high-pass filter. While the SE includes only a hard mount, a shock mount can be purchased separately. This simplicity favors users focused on voiceover or solo recording in controlled setups.
Performance tests confirm solid handling of plosives, off-axis coloration, and electromagnetic interference. The all-metal body and 5-year warranty add value at the price point, and each unit is hand-tested in Texas.
Overall, the WA-87jr SE offers impressive sound quality and build for its class. For those on a budget or just starting with voiceover work, it’s a strong contender among entry-level studio microphones.
