Warm Audio WA12 MKII Single Channel Microphone Preamplifier & Instrument DI User Manual

1. Introduction

Merci pour votre achatasing the Warm Audio WA12 MKII Single Channel Microphone Preamplifier & Instrument DI. This unit is a completely discrete, high voltage, dual-transformer microphone preamplifier designed to enhance the tone of microphones and instruments. It offers high gain (+71dB), high headroom, and low noise, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of recording applications. This manual will guide you through the setup, operation, and maintenance of your WA12 MKII to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

2. Consignes de sécurité

Please read and follow all safety instructions before operating this device. Keep this manual for future reference.

• Source d'alimentation : Only use the provided IEC cable and connect to a grounded power outlet. Ensure the voltage correspond aux exigences de l'unité.
• Eau et humidité : Do not expose this unit to rain, moisture, or any liquids. Do not operate near water.
• Chaleur: Ne placez pas l'appareil à proximité de sources de chaleur telles que des radiateurs, des bouches de chauffage, des poêles ou tout autre appareil produisant de la chaleur.
• Ventilation: Assurez une ventilation adéquate. Ne bloquez aucune ouverture de ventilation.
• Entretien: Do not attempt to service this unit yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
• Nettoyage: Nettoyer uniquement avec un chiffon sec.

3. Contenu du colis

Your Warm Audio WA12 MKII package should include the following items:

• Warm Audio WA12 MKII Unit
• Câble IEC
• Manuel du propriétaire

4. Produit terminéview

4.1 Commandes du panneau avant

Image: Front panel of the Warm Audio WA12 MKII, showing all controls and indicators.

• 1/4" Instrument DI Input: Connect high-impedance instruments such as guitars or basses here.
• Bouton HI-Z : Engages the high-impedance input for instruments, optimizing the signal path.
• Bouton 48V : Active l'alimentation fantôme +48 V pour les microphones à condensateur. Une LED témoin s'allume lorsqu'elle est active.
• Bouton PAD : Applies a -20dB attenuation to the input signal, useful for very loud sources to prevent clipping.
• POL (Polarity) Button: Inverts the polarity (phase) of the input signal. Useful for correcting phase issues when using multiple microphones.
• Bouton TONE : Engages a tone-shaping circuit that alters the input impedance from 600 ohms to 150 ohms, providing a different sonic character.
• Bouton GAIN : Controls the input gain for the microphone or instrument signal, ranging from 29dB to 65dB.
• Bouton OUTPUT : Règle le niveau de sortie global du pré-ampliamplifier.
• VU Meter LEDs: A series of LEDs indicating the output level, ranging from -20dB to +18dB, with indicators for 0dB, +08dB, and +18dB (clipping).
• Bouton d'alimentation: Turns the unit on or off. An indicator LED illuminates when the unit is powered on.

4.2 Connexions du panneau arrière

The rear panel of the WA12 MKII provides the necessary connections for integrating the unit into your audio setup.

• Entrée micro XLR : Connect your microphone via a standard XLR cable.
• Sortie ligne XLR: Connect this output to your audio interface, mixer, or other recording equipment.
• Entrée d'alimentation IEC : Connect the provided IEC cable here to power the unit.

5. Installation

Follow these steps to set up your Warm Audio WA12 MKII:

1. Connexion électrique : Connect the IEC power cable to the rear panel of the WA12 MKII and then to a grounded AC power outlet.
2. Connexion micro : Connect your microphone to the XLR Microphone Input on the rear panel using a high-quality XLR cable.
3. Instrument Connection (Optional): If using an instrument, connect it to the 1/4" Instrument DI Input on the front panel. Ensure the HI-Z button is engaged.
4. Connexion de sortie : Connect the XLR Line Output on the rear panel to an input on your audio interface, mixer, or other recording device.
5. Mise sous tension : Press the POWER button on the front panel. The power indicator LED will illuminate.
6. Paramètres initiaux : Set the GAIN and OUTPUT knobs to their minimum positions before connecting any audio sources to avoid sudden loud signals.

6. Mode d'emploi

Operating the WA12 MKII involves adjusting its various controls to achieve the desired sound and level.

• Gagner Stagment: Begin by slowly increasing the GAIN knob until the desired input level is achieved. Monitor the VU Meter LEDs to ensure the signal is not clipping (red +18dB LED). Adjust the OUTPUT knob to control the signal level sent to your recording device.
• Alimentation fantôme (48 V) : If using a condenser microphone, press the 48V button to supply phantom power. Always connect the microphone before engaging phantom power and disengage it before disconnecting the microphone.
• Tampon: For very loud sources (e.g., close-miked drums, loud guitar amps), engage the PAD button to reduce the input signal by 20dB, preventing distortion.
• Polarity (POL): Use the POL button to invert the phase of the input signal. This can be crucial when recording with multiple microphones to avoid phase cancellation issues.
• Tonifier: The TONE button changes the input impedance, offering a different sonic flavor. Experiment with this setting to find what best suits your microphone and source.
• HI-Z : When connecting an instrument directly to the 1/4" input, ensure the HI-Z button is engaged for proper impedance matching.

7. Entretien

Proper maintenance will ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your WA12 MKII.

• Nettoyage: Utilisez un chiffon doux et sec pour nettoyer l'extérieur de l'appareil. Évitez les nettoyants abrasifs et les solvants.
• Stockage: Lorsqu'il n'est pas utilisé, rangez l'appareil dans un endroit frais et sec, à l'abri de la lumière directe du soleil et des températures extrêmes.
• Ventilation: Ensure the unit has adequate airflow around it during operation to prevent overheating.
• Entretien des câbles : Manipulez tous les câbles avec précaution. Évitez de les plier ou de les pincer excessivement.

8. Dépannage

If you encounter any issues with your WA12 MKII, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

• Pas d'alimentation :
  • Check if the IEC cable is securely connected to the unit and the power outlet.
  • Assurez-vous que la prise de courant est fonctionnelle.
  • Verify the POWER button is pressed in and its LED is illuminated.
• Pas de son :
  • Check all audio cable connections (microphone, instrument, output).
  • Ensure GAIN and OUTPUT knobs are not set to minimum.
  • If using a condenser mic, ensure 48V phantom power is engaged.
  • If using an instrument, ensure the HI-Z button is engaged.
  • Check the input/output settings on your audio interface or mixer.
• Son déformé :
  • Réduisez la valeur du bouton GAIN.
  • Engage the PAD button if the source is very loud.
  • Check the input level on your recording device to ensure it's not clipping.
• Bourdonnement ou bruit :
  • Assurez-vous que tous les câbles sont correctement blindés et connectés.
  • Essayez une autre prise de courant.
  • Check for ground loops.
  • Ensure the POL (Polarity) button is set correctly if using multiple mics.

If the problem persists, contact Warm Audio support or a qualified technician.

9. Spécifications

10. Informations sur la garantie

Warm Audio products are designed and manufactured to the highest quality standards. This product is covered by a limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship for a period specified by Warm Audio at the time of purchase. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the official Warm Audio website ou contactez leur support client.

11. Assistance

For technical support, product registration, or further inquiries, please visit the official Warm Audio webVous pouvez également consulter leur site web ou contacter leur service client. Vous trouverez leurs coordonnées et une FAQ sur leur page d'assistance.