HARDWARE vs SOFTWARE PLUGINS | Warm Audio WA73 Preamp & WA2A Compressor
Рет қаралды 34,388
Күн бұрын📽What Hardware Should I Get In My Studio? The quality of plugins is so high now that they are very close to the original hardware, so why would you spend loads more money on hardware? Let's find out. Unboxing and reviewing the Warm Audio WA73 Preamp + EQ, and WA2A Class-A Opto Tube Compressor/Limiting Amplifier for my home studio.
💲BUY the Warm Audio WA2A Compressor:
Amazon: amzn.to/2GZCp1J
Sweetwater: imp.i114863.net/jPaxM
Thomann: redir.love/thoprod/384086?off...
💲BUY the Warm Audio WA73 Preamp:
Amazon: amzn.to/3kgg0eN
Sweetwater: imp.i114863.net/q1o5b
Thomann: redir.love/thoprod/432164?off...
Subscribe to my channel for more home studio music production related content on Tuesdays and Fridays: kzfaq.info?sub_...
✅Warm Audio online: warmaudio.com/wa-2a/
✅Warm Audio on KZfaq: / @warmaudioofficial
🎧BACKGROUND MUSIC: 'Who Is She?', 'I Can't Get Enough', 'Can You Feel Me?' - Love Beans (www.epidemicsound.com/campaig...)
📋WA73 Preamp + EQ:
1-Channel Microphone Preamp with Equaliser
In the British 1073 style
Discrete Class A circuit
Carnhill transformer
80 dB gain
Incremented potentiometer
Tone button for switching the input impedance
Switch for phase reversal
3-Band induction coil EQ low-band boost/cut: 35, 60, 110, 220 Hz
Mid-band boost/cut: 360, 700, 1600, 3200, 4800, 7200 Hz
Treble-band boost/cut: 10, 12, 16 kHz
Additional treble band EQ points
LED meter
48V Phantom power
Integrated 115/230 V power supply unit
Build: 19" / 1 U
Microphone input: XLR
Line-input: 6.3 mm jack
Instrument input: 6.3 mm jack
Insert input and output: 6.3 mm jack
Line output: XLR and 6.3 mm jack
📋WA-2A Compressor
100% discrete signal path
CineMag input transformer
CineMag output transformer
4 Premium TungSol and Electro-Harmonix tubes: 2x 12AX7, 1x 12BH7, 1x 6AQ5 (or the 6P1 - can be interchanged)
Kenetek opto attenuator
Integrated power adapter
Stereo-link capability
Balanced XLR and jack inputs - 600 ohm impedance
Balanced XLR and jack outputs - 600 ohm impedance
Frequency response: +/- 1 dB, 15 - 20,000 Hz
Gain: 40 dB +/-1 dB
Input level: +16 dB maximum
Output level: +10 dB nominal, +16 dB maximum
Distortion: less than 0.1% THD at +/-10 dBm
Attack time: 10 milliseconds
Release time: 0.06 seconds for 50% release, 0.5 up to 5 seconds for complete release
#WarmAudio #PreAmp #AnalogueStudioGear
✅RECOMMENDED WAVES PLUGINS:
- Studio Rack: waves.alzt.net/5oK73
- CLA MixHub: waves.alzt.net/1J2Wx
- F6 Dynamic EQ: waves.alzt.net/gYJW2
- CLA-2A Compressor / Limiter: waves.alzt.net/zYR2W
- Abbey Road Mastering Chain: waves.alzt.net/6m7Eb
- Abbey Road Saturator: waves.alzt.net/2Z2da
- H-Delay: waves.alzt.net/M7gb2
- Renaissance Verb: waves.alzt.net/rYRXy
- L3 MultiMaximiser Multiband Mastering: waves.alzt.net/xYOZd
- Submarine - Subharmonics: waves.alzt.net/rYRX5
(These are affiliate sales links, so I will get a small commission, at no extra cost to you if you buy these plugins.)
ABOUT THIS CHANNEL
This channel is dedicated to educational home studio music production content. Stay tuned for gear reviews, comparison videos - always with audio examples and interviews with top London musicians and producers. I will be sharing tips and techniques on all things recording, home studio production, Logic Pro X and UAD's LUNA.
VIDEOS WILL INCLUDE:
- Tech Review Tuesdays: A product/plugin review each week,
- Gear comparisons, always with audio examples,
- Plugin comparisons,
- Interviews with industry professionals,
- Recording tips & techniques
- Production tips & techniques,
- Logic Pro X tips & workflow,
- My approach to recording and music production, featuring songs off my album.
✅ED ONLINE
MUSIC VIDEOS: • 'IT FEELS LIKE' by Ed ...
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INSTAGRAM: / theedthorne
✅ONLINE DISTRIBUTION via Distrokid. GET 7% OFF now using this link: distrokid.com/vip/EdThorne
✅GEAR USED:
UAD Apollo Twin Audio Interface: amzn.to/2CRG4fW
SHURE SM7b Microphone: amzn.to/38ccT2K
SENNHEISER HD300 Pro Headphones: amzn.to/388lSSA
WARM AUDIO WA73 Preamp + EQ: amzn.to/31pIOez
NIKON D750 Camera: amzn.to/2ZiiyQS
NIKON 24-70mm, f/2.8, Lens: amzn.to/3gd75ZH
CHAUVET Freedom Par Uplight: amzn.to/2AipEMM
GEAR4MUSIC 3-Tier Desk: amzn.to/3ijk4uP
NEEWER 660 Bi-Colour, Dimmable LED Video Lights: amzn.to/3gbGEUi
SENNHEISER ME2 Lapel Mic: amzn.to/3g6BUiA
SENNHEISER MKE400 Camera Mic: amzn.to/3i5xUk6
SONARWORKS Ref 4 Studio: amzn.to/2YHGn5q
PRO-COUSTIX Acoustic Treatment Studio Foam: amzn.to/2BJtNcR
PRO-COUSTIX Corner Blocks and Ceiling Cubes: amzn.to/3eHeeRu
@EdThorne 4 жыл бұрын
🎬 HOW TO INSERT COMPRESSION with the WA73 & WA2AS: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/bstkf6ea3dnQpn0.html 🎧 LATEST SONG/MIX: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/ibinorinuNfFZIk.html
@manuellujan5625 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the great videos! If you could only get one at a time...which one would you get FIRST? Im about to get either or but need help deciding lol thank you sir!
@EdThorne 3 жыл бұрын
@@manuellujan5625 You’re welcome 🙂 I’d suggest the preamp first, then either of the compressors, probably the WA2A first.
@natcoziay 2 жыл бұрын
The good thing about hardware is that when computer operating systems change, your hardware can still be used. The plugin may no longer be useful unless you spend more money to make the plugin compatible with the new operating system. Over the years I found myself spending more money to keep plugins up to date with new DAW versions and operating systems. In the long run, you save yourself money by going with hardware.
@valerietayfun3006 8 ай бұрын
I agree
@imdidi5695 3 жыл бұрын
Warm Audio is providing great gear at great price. That mic pre amp has an amazing circuitry with top Carnhill Transformers on it.
@EdThorne 3 жыл бұрын
Yeh, they're providing a great access point to analog gear without the price tag of the 'classics'. I'm very happy with my WA73 on vocals and acoustics. I don't like on bass, it seems to do strange things below 100Hz.
@Leele0 4 жыл бұрын
Once again, great video Ed!
@EdThorne 4 жыл бұрын
Thank you sir 🙂
@TheREALBackPack 4 жыл бұрын
GREAT review!!!! Keep going! You're a good speaker
@EdThorne 4 жыл бұрын
Thank you 😊🙏
@WarrenHenry 4 жыл бұрын
Great review Ed
@EdThorne 4 жыл бұрын
Warren Henry Thanks Warren 🙂🙏
@JonWrightMusicTV 4 жыл бұрын
Great stuff! I reckon you'll find the plugins and the hardware quite different - we have the WA76 here as well as the Klark Teknik 76 and 2A and yeah, different world! Can't wait to hear how you get on with the new chain!
@EdThorne 4 жыл бұрын
Jon Wright Music I’m thinking the WA76 might be better suites for my needs. I’ll see when WA send me one for review.
@JonWrightMusicTV 4 жыл бұрын
@@EdThorne Or both! The classic 2A, 76 combo.... If you want me to run a dry recording through the WA76 let me know, won't take 5 mins
@NicholasSchlesinger 3 жыл бұрын
Interesting video. Well explained. Thanks!
@EdThorne 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Nick. Remind me to tell you the story behind this video when I see you👌
@freyafoxmusic 3 жыл бұрын
ty for thisss
@natanyofsho 3 жыл бұрын
I got the TB 12 ToneBeast Black and the WA76!
@EdThorne 3 жыл бұрын
That’s great, how’s the Tone Beast? I’m considering two for a drum studio next year to saturate my room mics.
@heartland3887 4 жыл бұрын
hi guy if'i m not mistaken, there a switch the back of compressor to set meter hand at 0 but ur meter indicator is at the end right?
@EdThorne 4 жыл бұрын
It falls to zero when it’s off, but yes, well spotted, I hadn’t calibrated it for the video. I have since done that so it will be easier to gauge the gain levels for my next video. Thanks for the comments 🙂🙏
@dimitriskovaios 3 жыл бұрын
Trying to wrap my head around the connection of these two... My WA-2A responds differently to the WA-73, when in the insert loop and the differently when in series after it, even though I use the same settings on the Wa73. You think it's normal? Thank you!
@dimitriskovaios 3 жыл бұрын
I should add... With the same settings on both units, the WA-2A compresses way less, when in the loop, than in series... I am talking about 15-20 dB of gain reduction difference. Thanks (again..!)
@EdThorne 3 жыл бұрын
I’ve only used the WA2A in series after my WA76 so can’t directly compare but as an insert it’s pre-output gain so the compressor in series is likely getting more line level and Opto compressors respond according to how much input gain they receive. You will get more compression (in a compounding fashion) with a hard signal than with a soft input. They don’t operate in a linear fashion like a FET or VCA compressor does.
@dimitriskovaios 3 жыл бұрын
@@EdThorne I thought the output knob of the WA-73, when maxed, just lets the whole level of the input gain through, but it seems like it's another active gain stage. That's why, when connected to the output of the WA-73 the compressor is hit harder. Anyway, thanks for input, my friend, much appreciated! Cheers!
@EdThorne 3 жыл бұрын
@@dimitriskovaios Yeh the output is a gain attenuator to help you re-balance the output of you use heavy subtractive or additive EQ (if you have the EQ version), or if you heavily compress inline via the insert line. It’s useful but took me a few goes getting used to. Between the input gain, Compressor inline, output gain and interface input gain there’s FOUR gain structures to control. Keep experimenting 🙂
@heartland3887 4 жыл бұрын
hi can you please do video about finding sweet spot with gain knob and trim knob at the same time the right recording level on protool fader? thanks!
@EdThorne 4 жыл бұрын
Hi, yes. I will be doing a more in depth review soon and will discuss this. It depends on A LOT of factors though, such as input SPL, mic impedance (dynamic or condenser), and whether you use an insert (eg my compressor) or not.
@madmind_beatz 3 жыл бұрын
Does the pre amp send the signal straight to your daw or does it connects to an interface to do that?. ive been curious
@EdThorne 3 жыл бұрын
A preamp simply amplifies the analog signal. This will then always need to be converted into a digital signal by an audio interface for your DAW to process. 🙂
@madmind_beatz 3 жыл бұрын
@@EdThorne cool thanks.
@aaronkitchen7507 3 жыл бұрын
@Ed Thorne - Great video! Question: You're using a UAD unit, and obviously we hear a great deal about their converters. I have an SSL 2+, which I'm happy with. But if I want to step into a hybrid setup, do I need to upgrade to something with better converters like you have, or am I good to start with current interface and grow into something better as my budget allows? Thanks!
@EdThorne 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Aaron. Not necessarily. I’d suggest getting started with the analog gear, learning how it works, the quirks and gain staging and if you feel you need a better sound further down the line then consider upgrading the interface.
@aaronkitchen7507 3 жыл бұрын
@@EdThorne Thanks for the reply, my friend! Much appreciated perspective!
@zkmusicx416 3 жыл бұрын
A lot of videos and people on forums say you can’t bypass the preamps on the Apollo. Do you find the Apollo line in changes the sounded of the WA73?
@EdThorne 3 жыл бұрын
The influence of the preamps at the lowest input setting (10dB) is miniscule. You can bypass the preamps on the new X-series Apollo interfaces.
@zkmusicx416 3 жыл бұрын
Oh okay, I have the Apollo Twin Duo USB and was thinking about upgrading to a hardware preamp (WA73) but thought I had to get another interface as well.
@EdThorne 3 жыл бұрын
@@zkmusicx416 I have the Twin Duo Thunderbolt and the WA73 sounds great going through it. Did you see my Neve Unison plugin Vs WA73 comparison? kzfaq.info/get/bejne/qpqKZtlyrpmchWg.html
@tobiaskagstrom 3 жыл бұрын
Just to be clear: The "output gain" on your WA2A doesn't effect how much gain reduction or compression you get! That only depends (in your setup) on how high you set the red "gain" on your WA73 and the "peak reduction" on your WA2A. The "output gain" on the WA2A is just that...an output gain. =) You might already know this off course but from this video I got the impression that you thought you heard more compression when cranking the "output gain". Cheers
@EdThorne 3 жыл бұрын
Tobias Kågström No, you’re right Tobias. Having literally unboxed it I was definitely figuring it out in this video 🤦🏼♂️ Thanks for commenting 🙂
@ryanshotton1972 2 жыл бұрын
Exactly what I was thinking watching this. Like "agghh, why are you chonking on that knob? It ain't doin what you think it's doin" haha anyways, thanks for the vids. You've got lots of great tips.
@gennitvshow6684 3 жыл бұрын
How did you connected the preamp and the compressor to the apolo ???
@EdThorne 3 жыл бұрын
Good question. Like this: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/bstkf6ea3dnQpn0.html 🙂
@ChrisAbad 4 жыл бұрын
This review couldn’t have come at a better time as I’ve been considering these two outboard devices! What power conditioner is that under WA73?
@EdThorne 4 жыл бұрын
Chris Abad Hi Chris, thanks for watching. So far I’m impressed with both units. I’ll be doing more detailed reviews soon. Funny story about the power conditioner (which I decided to leave out of the video at the last minute): I’ve never had electrical noise issues in the studio but bought that from Studiospares to protect the new equipment just in case (in addition to the surge plugs I already have), and when I started the WAs up I was getting loads of noise. I assumed it was them until I identified it was the power cleaner - doing the exact opposite of what it should be doing 🤦🏼♂️
@johnnynarcotics7299 3 жыл бұрын
Did you connect your compressor to the preamp or the universal audio?
@EdThorne 3 жыл бұрын
It was connected like this: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/bstkf6ea3dnQpn0.html
@johnnynarcotics7299 3 жыл бұрын
@@EdThorne legend Ed thank you!
@poorkidd 2 жыл бұрын
So how does the delay differ (hardware Vs plugins) for the vocalist monitoring their performance? Is this difference a good enough reason to go hardware?
@EdThorne 2 жыл бұрын
There’s no delay with hardware.
@poorkidd 2 жыл бұрын
@@EdThorne Yeah I know but I have watched so many hardware Vs software efx videos and none ever mention this fact.
@EdThorne 2 жыл бұрын
@@poorkidd It’s the computer processing that causes round trip latency, not the cabling/circuitry.
@poorkidd 2 жыл бұрын
@@EdThorne Unless you consider also the throughput of the chosen interface connection then it kind of is the cables and circuitry’s limit.
@EdThorne 2 жыл бұрын
@@poorkidd Of course those things are in the chain but the delay through cabling is in-audible.
@ChrisAbad 4 жыл бұрын
Also, did you first connect your mic to the WA73 then to WA2A or vice verse?
@EdThorne 4 жыл бұрын
Chris Abad The signal chain is: Mic - WA73 preamp - Insert send (pre EQ) to WA2A compressor - back into WA73 (to go through the EQ) - Apollo Line input (to bypass the Apollo pre) - computer.
@ChrisAbad 4 жыл бұрын
Ed Thorne Ohh ok, thanks for letting me know! Looking forward to a more extensive review of both of these devices! A video showing how you connect all of this gear for optimal control and audio fidelity would be awesome! Keep up the great content!
@JonWrightMusicTV 4 жыл бұрын
@@ChrisAbad Always preamp first - that's the stage that gets the signal up to the level that the compressors/EQ units work at. 👍
@EdThorne 4 жыл бұрын
@@ChrisAbad That's a good idea, Chris, I'll see about doing a video covering that. Thanks.
@beatmakerarmetsao 4 жыл бұрын
@@EdThorne can you make a vidéo of this please how to connect i'm a little bit lost xD
@MichaelMurrayUK 4 жыл бұрын
Brilliant review. Will you be reviewing the WA87
@EdThorne 4 жыл бұрын
Michael Murray Thanks Michael. Hopefully they’re sending me this mic, yes, I’m on the waiting list for review gear. 😀
@MichaelMurrayUK 4 жыл бұрын
Ed Thorne brilliant. Looking forward to the Aston Origin review. It’s my recording mic at the min (saving for an 87 😉)
@EdThorne 4 жыл бұрын
@@MichaelMurrayUK Thanks Michael. Here's the Aston review. It's a very bassy mic but sounds great on vocals and acoustics. Great value for money too. kzfaq.info/get/bejne/qaehosyFm7zJYmw.html
@MichaelMurrayUK 4 жыл бұрын
I really like the sound of the Origin. I use it at the moment. I will be upgrading soon, looking at the Neumann U87 but interested in hearing more about the WA87 first 😊
@EdThorne 3 жыл бұрын
Check out the JZ Mics v67 too (kzfaq.info/get/bejne/i-CpmaSLvq-RiKs.html). Wonderful mic. I’ll ask WA about a WA87 for review.
@Joelfrancis 9 ай бұрын
Class A design has the highest sound fidelity. And a Class D design offers the highest efficiency but isn't quite as high-fidelity
@EdThorne 9 ай бұрын
True.
@rubywilson1165 3 жыл бұрын
How to use wa2a compressor as a plugging. My daw logic my interface apollo . Please help
@EdThorne 3 жыл бұрын
You can purchases the LA2A plugin form Universal Audio and experiment with the input level/peak reduction. Understanding how an Optical compressor works in a non-linear, almost exponential like fashion will help.
@rubywilson1165 3 жыл бұрын
@@EdThorne sorry my question is how to set up hardware wa2a in logic
@EdThorne 3 жыл бұрын
@@rubywilson1165 Ah ok, sorry. As in, how to route an audio channel through it as an insert whilst mixing?
@rubywilson1165 3 жыл бұрын
@@EdThorne yes please help . My wa2a compressor and my wa73EQ to appollo
@EdThorne 3 жыл бұрын
@@rubywilson1165 The easiest way is track with the compression in-line (WA73-WA2A-Apollo). Using external hardware as inserts in Logic requires the native I/O plugin and routing from output 3, through the compressor and back into input 1 (on a Twin).
@lightafluident.9950 Жыл бұрын
Warm Audio is the 💣
@EdThorne Жыл бұрын
Yeh, man. I’m still using the WA76 and 2A in my vocal chain.
@user-tm2ho3dt6t 3 жыл бұрын
Whats the name of studio desk are you using ?
@EdThorne 3 жыл бұрын
It’s a Gear For Music (UK shop) own brand desk. It’s great, was £160.
@airbourne145 Жыл бұрын
Dont these hardwares need rack space for ventilation??
@EdThorne Жыл бұрын
Ideally, yes. That is a design flaw with this desk. These don’t run too hot though. I’ve since replaced this desk anyway.
@QuantumYin91 2 жыл бұрын
Hey this video was awesome I know I’m late but I’m looking to get into hardware only I have the Akai Force and a $30 Shure microphone I need help with the most afford pre amp for that set up and I get an upgrade on my mic maybe. My vocals sound so low
@EdThorne 2 жыл бұрын
Sounds like you just need a half decent interface and good mic. Try the UA Volts and an Aston Origin or SM7b 👌
@asianguy6174 3 жыл бұрын
I like things tangible. I want to adjust it as I am recording.
@EdThorne 3 жыл бұрын
Yeh man, and committing to settings as your track.
@DraiiRynell 3 жыл бұрын
Plugins are for our learning curve. Analog is when we have enough money lol
@EdThorne 3 жыл бұрын
Absolutely. But analog is fresh learning curve because they don’t react in the same way as plugins so you have to learn their quirks. It’s more fun though 🙂
@lightafluident.9950 3 жыл бұрын
There are plugins that ate EXCELLENT. I just finish mixing a whole album for a guy who's in the industry using all plugins. Ijs though.
@EdThorne 3 жыл бұрын
@@lightafluident.9950 Can't go wrong with UAD, FabFilter, Townhouse Bus-Comp, and Valhalla Reverbs. That's everything you need right there :-)
@zimouspero 3 жыл бұрын
Do you notice a huge diference between hardware working and plugins?
@EdThorne 3 жыл бұрын
They both have their pros and cons but I think analog wins in terms of depth of sound. Check out the audio examples in this video on acoustic, bass and vocals: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/nreHdJSp1s_aipc.html
@zimouspero 3 жыл бұрын
@@EdThorne thank you. I Will check it
@migibeats104 3 жыл бұрын
The only downside for me with hardware is the patchbay thingy with too many cables and recallability since I started mixing ITB . I am therefore researching recallable hardware and also an easier way to use inserts for example the Cranborne ADAT product. Thanks! Can you do a review on this Cranborne product if possible?
@EdThorne 3 жыл бұрын
I’d love to get hold of one of the Cranbourne’s for review, I’ll see what I can do. I need to build a patch bay too. My current thinking is record as analog as possible in, mix digitally, and sum/master out with analog.
@migibeats104 3 жыл бұрын
@@EdThorne Cool yes i have 2 summing boxes hence I was a looking at the Cranborne for further summing too but with hardware inserts and recording and some recall ability in the form of Wes audio gear.
@EdThorne 3 жыл бұрын
@@migibeats104 Check out the Tegeler Audio stuff too. I have my eye on their Cremé RC (with motorised pots and recallable settings)
@migibeats104 3 жыл бұрын
@@EdThorne yes l did thanks. Lovely box and sound. Rack space limitation is my goal too hence my interest in 500series. You get several options 4-10 depending on if it's mono or stereo.
@cjbiggar240 4 жыл бұрын
How did you get WARM Audio to send you thoes for free let me know thanks man 🙏
@EdThorne 4 жыл бұрын
Hi, I’m not at liberty to disclose my arrangement with them but it wasn’t for free.
@cjbiggar240 4 жыл бұрын
Ed Thorne I see ok well love your videos keep them coming 👌🍻
@gusdee4844 3 жыл бұрын
Companies send out pieces for youtubers with a following to review. Unfortunately u wont be able to get that deal lmao
@basementjunkies1765 2 жыл бұрын
What's the name of the Power Supply?
@EdThorne 2 жыл бұрын
In this video it’s a Studiospares own branded one. It was noisy so I sent it back and got Furmans.
@davemaverick8438 3 жыл бұрын
nice, didnt know goku was into audio production
@reeceb29 Жыл бұрын
Hey there if your new to the channel my name is “Head”
@EdThorne Жыл бұрын
*you’re…
@rachidajewher8649 9 ай бұрын
Do you need analog? STRANGE QUESTION if you are recording vocals or instruments you always gonna use an analog device , the cheap audio devices like 2i2 have a garbage preamp in the circuits in the other hand using a neve with eq and a good compressor is how all the top notch producers are using if you wanna compete you gotta do the same or better
@tenminutetokyo2643 3 жыл бұрын
DOOD!
@EdThorne 3 жыл бұрын
SWEET!
@dubgreens123 5 ай бұрын
No depth to this video
@EdThorne 5 ай бұрын
No depth to this comment but never mind 😉
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