Warm Audio WA-FT Fen-tone
Detailed characteristics of Warm Audio WA-FT Fen-tone
- With integrated 26 dB preamplifier
- CineMag USA transformer
- Powerful neodymium magnet
- 1.8 µm thin aluminium ribbon
- Switchable 26 dB preamplifier (requires phantom power)
- Polar pattern: Figure-8
- Frequency range: 30 – 15.000 Hz (+/- 3db
- Maximum sound pressure level: 148 dB (1kHz=1%T.H.D)
- Output impedance: 300 ohm (passive), 150 ohm (active)
- S/N ratio: 87 dB
- Sensitivity (passive): -47 dBv Re. 1v/pa
- Sensitivity (active): : -21 dBv Re. 1v/pa
- Dimensions (L x D): 170 x 38 mm
- Weight: 0.3 kg
- Includes case, microphone holder and dust cover
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Additional Information
Customer Review Summary
The Warm Audio WA-FT Fen-tone is a remarkable ribbon microphone that truly captures the essence of the 1950s sound. Having spent years searching for an affordable yet high-quality ribbon mic for my high-gain progressive rock and metal recordings, I was thrilled to discover this offering from Warm Audio, which serves as a much more budget-friendly alternative to the renowned Royer R-121.
Upon receiving the microphone, I was immediately impressed by its robust build quality and elegant design. It comes with a sturdy hard plastic case, a microphone clamp, and a lovely dust cover, adding to the overall value of the package.
When placed in front of an amp, the WA-FT Fen-tone delivers a clean, balanced sound that avoids the nasal and muffled qualities often found in lesser microphones. It blends beautifully with an SM57, creating a rich and creamy tone, provided you pay careful attention to the mic placement. This combination, especially when processed through a WA76 compressor, yields a sound that is polished and professional.
I also appreciate the microphone’s active circuitry, which is a thoughtful feature for users without high-end mic preamps, allowing it to work well even with simpler USB interfaces. The different frequency responses from the front and back of the mic offer additional tonal shaping options, though one must remember to adjust the phase when using the rear side.
In terms of sound quality, the WA-FT Fen-tone produces a warm and natural tone, free from the harsh highs often associated with modern condenser mics. It sounds immediately ‘finished’ and rounds out nicely, with soft transients and beautiful mids, closely reminiscent of the Royer R-121, but at a fraction of the price.
While it does have a slightly muted high end, which may require some adjustment in the mix for those seeking brightness and airiness, it remains an excellent choice for guitars, vocals, and anything that benefits from a touch of warmth.
Overall, the Warm Audio WA-FT Fen-tone is a fantastic microphone that sounds much more expensive than it is, making it a highly recommended option for anyone looking to achieve that vintage ribbon sound in their recordings.
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