Amplification Considerations Stereo Microphones and Ground Loops Equalization and Ribbon Microphones Hum, Noise and Mic Orientation Microphone Techniques General Tips for Using the Royer SF-24 Specialized Stereo Recording Techniques Classic Blumlein Technique Mid-Side (M-S) Technique Care and Maintenance Care for the Optical Black Finish Features
Specifications...
This instruction manual describes the SF-24, its function and method of use. It also describes the care and maintenance required to ensure proper operation and long service life. The User Guide section of this manual offers practical information designed to maximize the performance capabilities of this microphone.
Sonically the SF-24 differs from the unpowered SF-12 in one subtle way; due to the extra iron in the SF-24’s much larger transformers, low-end frequencies sound slightly tighter and more focused. Key Points: • No longer is it necessary to mate a ribbon microphone to an ultra-high gain, low noise preamplifier for optimum performance.
Your SF-24 is equipped with a 5-pin XLR type extension cable and a splitter cable that fans out to twin 3-pin male XLR connectors. As shipped from the factory, the connectors are marked “upper” and “lower,” since referring to them as "left” and “right” could lead to confusion.
1. Always be certain to use the SF-24’s five-lead stereo cable, which splits out to two short 3- pin cables with male XLR connectors labeled “Upper” and “Lower.” Do not substitute extension cables of unknown wiring! The SF-24’s pin-out is Pin-1 shared ground for both...
“mic sock” (provided) over it until it is to be used. As even light wind can stretch the SF-24‘s ribbon elements, do not carry the microphone around without placing a mic sock over it. Failure to follow this commonsense practice may yield a stretched ribbon and compromised performance! 5.
Using the RSM-24 Shock Mount Accessory Description Your SF-24 is supplied with a Royer RSM-24 suspension type shock mount designed specifically for this microphone. The RSM-24’s specially formulated polymer mounts provide maximum isolation from shock and vibration while holding the SF-24 securely in place, allowing the microphone to be safely positioned at any angle.
This not only stresses the microphone's electronics but can harm a phantom power source and produce loud thumps in your speakers. Since the SF-24 is active, its low impedance output allows for long cable runs with minimal affect on the microphone’s performance. High frequency response losses and noise pickup will...
130 dB SPL. In actuality, the SF-24’s ribbons would stretch well before its electronics would reach an overload condition. Due to the high output potential of the SF-24, it is recommended that the microphone preamplifier you pair it with have a switchable pad to prevent the possibility of overloading the preamplifier’s input stage electronics.
Some preamplifiers are prone to developing ground loops when used in conjunction with stereo microphones such as the SF-24. Ground loops can develop in the preamplifier with any stereo microphone regardless of type (i.e. condenser, dynamic, ribbon). A ground loop manifests itself as unwanted buzz or hum at 60 Hz and/or harmonics of 60 Hz.
In addition, the Royer SF-1, SF-12 and SF-24 family of microphones are designed to minimize the effects of unwanted radiation by integrating the transducer barrel as part of the magnetic return circuit. Royer’s SF- series ribbon microphones go one step further by incorporating toroidal impedance matching transformers, which have a natural ability to repel magnetic radiation.
It is important to remember that the SF-24’s ribbon elements can be damaged by wind. When the SF-24 is mounted on a boom stand, be sure the stand is moved slowly. When the microphone is taken down, put it in its box immediately or, if it is to remain in its shock mount, place the mic sock over the ribbon end of the microphone.
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An SF-24 can produce dramatically good recordings of an orchestra or choir. If possible, position the SF-24 at a height of ten feet or so and a few feet behind the conductor. The wide stereo pickup will reproduce the orchestra or choir with a stunning you-are-there realism. The rear lobes of the figure-8 elements bring the ambient qualities of the recording environment into the...
For recording a vocal with acoustic guitar, two separate mono tracks are required with little leakage between the tracks. One stand and one SF-24 can do the job nicely when the two axes of sensitivity are correctly oriented (see illustration).
Rotating the SF-24 counter-clockwise by 45¼ positions it for M-S recording. By inserting your SF-24 with the logo in the left slot of the RSM-24 shock mount (see Using the RSM-24 Shock Mount, page 9), then facing the shock mounts logo directly at the center of the performance, the microphone will be rotated 45¼...
Figure 3 Care and Maintenance The SF-24 is a solidly built, precision instrument. All that is required to ensure proper operation of this microphone is to follow some commonsense rules. 1. To avoid transducer damage, do not expose 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.
Care for the Optical Black Finish The SF-24's optical black finish is a sophisticated surface treatment designed to refract light rather than reflect it. This makes the microphone appear less conspicuous, especially when used with high intensity lighting or within a camera shot. The finish requires occasional maintenance to retain a smooth, even appearance and to maintain its unique optical qualities.
• Equal sensitivity from front or back of microphone • Consistent frequency response regardless of distance • Compact size Specifications Acoustic Operating Principle:
Electro-dynamic pressure gradient with active electronics Polar Pattern: Symmetrical Figure-8 Generating Elements: Two 1.8-micron aluminum ribbons Frequency Response: 30 HZ –...
1 year Parts and Labor SCOPE OF WARRANTY: From the date of original purchase and for the respective periods specified above, Royer Labs agrees to repair, at its sole expense, all Royer Labs products which are defective in material and workmanship.
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