User Manual

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CHAPTER 2: NOW LET’S GET STARTED!
INTRODUCTION
The WA12 MKII is our take on one of the most successful and iconic preamp types in the history
of classic console designs. Our goal was to make this type of discrete transformer coupled
mic preamp available for the first time at an affordable price, without compromising any of the
design parameters and characteristics that make this type of preamp so desirable.
The MKII version of our first product reflects the vital feedback from our valued customers, and
our ongoing commitment to provide the most value we possibly can for your purchase. We’ve
added metering, output trim control (channel fader), and our discrete op-amp is now socketed,
allowing for easy replacement with any discrete op-amp that conforms to the +/-16v,
2520-style pinout standard. The quality, design, and sonic character have not otherwise been
changed; so rest assured that this unit can sonically ‘fit in’ perfectly alongside your classic
WA12 or WA12-500 units!
OPERATION
As a discrete transformer coupled, high gain microphone preamplifier, the WA12 MKII works
great with all types of microphones, including dynamic, ribbon, and condenser
microphones. Dynamic microphones and ribbon microphones are generally lower output
devices and require no external power source. Condenser microphones are generally more
sensitive than dynamic and ribbon microphones and typically require external +48V phantom
power.
The WA12 MKII also works well with a variety of instruments, via the onboard active instrument DI.
FEATURES
The WA12 MKII is a completely discrete, high voltage, dual-transformer microphone
preamplifier designed for high gain (+71dB), high headroom, low noise, and an exciting
sonic performance – great for all types of recording applications. A high quality mic preamp
is one of the most critical pieces needed to achieve the elusive ‘larger than life’ sound, and the
WA12 MKII is more than capable of delivering.
The WA12 MKII features both a large, high-headroom custom-wound microphone input
transformer, and a line output transformer by Cinemag Transformers USA. The WA12 MKII is
based around a discrete op-amp, the X731, which is our own reproduction of the vintage
classic Melcor 1731, considered by some to be the warmer predecessor to the modern
2520-style op-amp. The X731 can achieve vibrant, clean and lifelike tones; but can also be
driven into mild saturation at much higher gain levels. The effects can be subtle, but very
pleasing to the ear. The WA12 MKII can also accept any discrete op-amp on the market
which conforms to the +/-16v, 2520 pinout standard.
WA12 MKII
Recording interface
In this diagram, the WA12 MKII is used as an active instrument DI to capture an electric guitar
and bring the signal into a recording interface.
Note: it is important to use a line level input on your recording device as opposed to a microphone or instrument
level input.
CHAPTER 4: HOOKUP DIAGRAMS