Model SF-2 Ribbon Microphone Introduction Active Ribbon™ Technology Description Applications Ribbons in the Digital World User’s Guide Using the SF-2 Active Ribbon™ Microphone Operation Using the RSM-24 Shock Mount Accessory Description Features Usage Properly Inserting the Microphone into the Shock Mount Amplification Considerations...
SPL handling (130 dB) without the use of a pad. It gives the SF-2 an output level comparable to that of condenser microphones, and its buffer stage provides a low impedance output and presents an optimum load to the ribbon element.
130 dB SPL, while the R-121 can handle levels greater than 135 dB SPL. Please be aware of this as you use your SF-2. When handled with care, it will be many years before you need to re-ribbon your microphone (ribbons can last indefinitely if not abused).
User’s Guide Using the SF-2 Active Ribbon™ Microphone The head amplification system in the SF-2 was designed to operate with standard 48-volt simplex phantom power sources only. The microphone will not work at all if phantom power is not provided to the microphone! This aspect of an active ribbon microphone is in sharp contrast to conventional ribbon microphones, in which phantom power usually spells danger or destruction to the ribbon element.
5. Never attempt to “test” the SF-2 or any ribbon microphone with an ohmmeter. A blown ribbon could result. 6. Always provide adequate protection by using a windscreen or mic sock with your SF-2,...
The RSM-24 shock mount was originally designed for our SF-24 stereo ribbon microphone, so it has two orientation slots: one for on-axis recording (A-slot) and one positioned at 45° left of center (B-slot) for easy X-Y and M-S positioning. When recording with the SF-2 use the A-slot.
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Figure 3 Since the SF-2 is active, its low impedance output allows for long cable runs with minimal effect on the microphone’s performance. High-frequency response losses and noise pickup will be minimal even with cable runs up to several hundred feet.
“thermal” noise than transistors. Tube preamplifier noise is far less of an issue with the SF-2 than with conventional ribbon microphones because the SF-2’s high output will override the noise. Transformer coupled designs tend to sound punchy and full bodied and offer the added benefit of true electronic isolation.
There will be a “magic position” where the hum disappears completely. Hum and other noise can even be picked up by microphone cables. Since the output of Royer Active Series mics is 15 to 25 dB higher than with traditional ribbon microphones, any...
noise picked up in the mic cables will be at a corresponding lower level, and hence less likely to be objectionable. The Sweet Spot Finding and Working with the Sweet Spot Experienced engineers know the importance and benefits of finding and working with the “sweet spot”...
Proximity Effect and Working Distance The Sound That is “More Real than Real” Ribbon microphones have long been renowned for rich bass. This effect is largely due to the fact that ribbon microphones generally have excellent bass response to begin with, and at the same time exhibit an effect known as “proximity effect”...
For a drum set, placing the microphone(s) at a distance of four to six feet above the kit works very well. The SF-2 is not recommended for use as a kick drum mic or close miking individual drums, toms, etc.
SPL’s. Some sound sources can generate powerful blasts of air that should be avoided. Kick drums and electric guitar and bass amplifiers should never be close miked with an SF-2. Royer R-series mics are more suited for this purpose. Stereophonic Microphone Technique Classic Blumlein Technique For many years, several “coincident”...
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connected as shown in Figure 3. When the outputs of the pair of microphones are combined at the mixer, they will behave like a pair of microphones, one facing left and one right, provided that the sensitivities of the mics are equal and the mixer channel gains are equal. Turning down the side mic all the way will give a mono pickup;...
Typical M-S connection set-up Care and Maintenance The SF-2 is a solidly built, precision instrument. All that is required to ensure proper operation of this microphone is to follow some commonsense rules. 1. Avoid transducer damage by not exposing the microphone to severe shock or vibration. If the microphone is accidentally dropped, test it to see if damage has occurred before returning it to service.
Following this simple procedure will protect the finish and renew it to its original luster. Features and Specifications SF-2 Features: • Smooth, wide frequency response • Active electronics offer greatly enhanced output and a constant, optimized impedance to the ribbon element •...
Microphone Warranty: Lifetime to original owner (repair or replace at Royer’s option). Ribbon elements not included in the lifetime warranty Ribbon Element Warranty: One Year Polar Pattern Frequency Response...
WARRANTY, THE REGISTRATION CARD AND A PHOTOCOPY OF THE SALES RECEIPT FROM AN AUTHORIZED ROYER DEALER MUST BE ON FILE WITH ROYER LABS. Royer Labs hereby warrants all Royer products sold by Royer Labs or Royer Labs authorized dealers with the following terms and conditions.
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