User Manual

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6. Tone Switch

This control switches the input transformer conﬁguration from a 1:4 (step up) turns ratio to a steeper

1:8 (step up) turns ratio, drawing out a greater degree of coloration and impact from both the input

transformer as well as the discrete op-amp. When engaged, the input impedance of the WA12 MKII

is 150 ohms. When disengaged, the input impedance of the WA12 MKII is 600 ohms. The 150 ohm

(switched-in) setting will increase the gain of the WA12 MKII by +6db, changing the maximum gain

from +65 to +71db. This feature will make a noticeable tone change to most microphones and

instruments. The Microphone and Hi-Z inputs are both altered by this feature; as every input source

ultimately will pass through the affected components. The 600 ohms impedance setting is recommended

for condenser and dynamic microphones, and 150 ohms is recommended for ribbons. This switch

is labeled “Tone” for a reason though; most listeners will ﬁnd the normal setting to be more open

and natural, with the engaged setting to be more punchy, aggressive, or thick. The engaged

setting is very much akin to how vintage console preamps such as those that inspired the WA12

MKII have always been wired; however the disengaged setting is more akin to how many other

modern types of solid-state preamps are normally wired. We strongly suggest you experiment with

both settings on all sources to ﬁnd the best possible tone for your recordings. As with all things,

let your ear and artistic taste be the ﬁnal judge on which settings to use for any given situation.

7. GAIN Knob

The gain control is variable and adjusts the WA12 MKII ’s gain from +29db to +65db or from

+35db to +71db when the “TONE” switch is engaged. The “PAD” feature lowers the minimum

and maximum ranges by -20db when engaged.

8. OUTPUT Knob

This control acts as the ‘channel fader’, providing seamless attenuation to the output signal. This

can be highly useful in ‘sculpting’ the sound of the preamp. For example, higher gain with lower

output tends to produce a more overdriven, harmonically rich sound; while lower gain, higher

output tends to produce a more open, dynamic, clean, and articulate sound. As with all things,

let your ear and artistic taste be the ﬁnal judge on which settings to use for any given situation.

9. Meter Display

The LED meter displays gain level for the WA12 MKII, and can be a valuable tool for monitoring

peak level activity and ensuring a safe recording level is achieved.

10. Power Button

The power button is used to power the unit on and off. To extend the life of the electronics

please turn unit off when not in use.

BACK PANEL

1. XLR & TRS Balanced Output

Output is provided by an XLR and ¼" TRS output connector. For unbalanced

operation, use an unbalanced ¼" TS cable. We recommend for best results to

use only one output at a time.

2. Microphone Input

Microphones and mic-level signals may be connected via the rear XLR connector.

3. AC POWER

The WA12 MKII is designed to use a 24V AC power supply. Warm Audio

recommends that you use the 24V AC supplied in the original box or another

of identical spec.

CHAPTER 3: TECHNICAL SPECS