Warm Audio WA-FT Fen-Tone Stereo Set | Ribbon Microphone with In-Line Preamp

The Fen-tone™ Instrument Ribbon Microphone is a high-quality, studio-optimized ribbon microphone that is ideal for recording a wide range of acoustic and electric instruments. Inspired by the classic ribbon microphones of the 1950s, it has been equipped with modern materials and technologies to ensure both sonic authenticity and reliable performance. Its slim, cylindrical design allows it to be positioned flexibly and precisely – especially for close miking of guitar amplifiers, wind instruments or drum overheads.

The central element is a 1.8 micron ribbon made of 99.1% pure aluminum, which is manufactured in Japan especially for this application. This high-precision component guarantees natural transient reproduction, detailed mids and silky highs without losing the soft frequency response typical of ribbon microphones. The ribbon is centered between the magnetic poles, which eliminates sound differences between the front and rear – ensuring consistent imaging in any recording situation.

Signal conversion is handled by a CineMag transformer manufactured in the USA, which combines the typical ribbon sound image with contemporary output impedance. The particularly strong magnetic field strength is achieved by using a rare neodymium magnet, which is significantly more durable and has lower losses than classic AlNiCo magnets. This enables efficient conversion of sound into electrical energy, even at high sound pressure levels of up to 148 dB SPL.

A key feature of the Fen-tone is the switchable in-line preamplifier with 26 dB gain. In “VT” mode, the microphone operates completely passively and delivers the traditional ribbon signal – ideal in conjunction with high-quality external preamps. In “+dB” mode, an integrated JFET preamplifier is activated, which amplifies the signal at the microphone and thus enables optimum performance even with audio interfaces or preamps with low gain. This active mode requires phantom power (48 V). Please note that phantom power must not be applied in passive mode in order to avoid damage.

The figure-8 polar pattern enables precise separation between the main signal and ambient influences. It captures sound sources from both the front and the rear and ensures targeted room imaging with high lateral attenuation – ideal for stereo techniques, room recordings or the isolation of sound sources in the studio.

The Fen-tone™ is available in two versions: as a single microphone or as a stereo pair. Both versions come in a robust flight case with microphone clamp and protective sock. Each Fen-tone is individually tested and calibrated by technicians at the company’s headquarters in Austin, Texas, to ensure consistent quality and maximum fidelity.