Royer Labs SF-2
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Manufacturer Information
Royer Labs
https://www.royerlabs.com
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A modern ribbon designed for acoustics, with the ease of an active microphone
Originally designed for classical and acoustic instruments, the SF-2 belongs to the family of ribbon microphones that prioritize timbral fidelity and smooth highs, while addressing a traditional ribbon microphone weakness: the need for a very high-gain preamp. Here, the integrated active electronics raise the output level, stabilize impedance matching, and provide a comfortable signal even with less "powerful" preamps, without losing the ribbon aesthetic (texture, depth, absence of harshness).
Who it's for and studio applications
The SF-2 targets sound engineers, demanding home studio users, and recording studios seeking a premium ribbon microphone capable of enhancing acoustic sources. It excels on string quartets, piano, acoustic guitar, delicate percussion, strings, and woodwinds, but is also very relevant on guitar amps, overheads, or room ambiance when a less "bright" image than a condenser is desired, with a sense of depth and naturalness.
Its bi-directional (figure-8) polar pattern enables creative techniques: two-sided recording (face-to-face duo), reduction of side leakage, or Mid/Side recording in combination with a cardioid microphone. Since the off-axis response is minimally colored, placement becomes more predictable: proximity effect, attack, and openness are simply adjusted by orientation.
Technical Specifications
Type and Design
- Operating principle: pressure gradient electrodynamic microphone with active circuit
- Element: aluminum ribbon (1.8 microns)
- Polar pattern: bi-directional (figure-8 response)
- Magnet: high-quality neodymium
Audio Performance
- Frequency response: 30 Hz - 15 kHz +/- 2 dB
- Sensitivity: -38 dBv (reference: 1 V/Pa +/- 1 dB)
- Self-noise: below 20 dB
- Maximum SPL: above 130 dB
Impedances
- Output impedance: 200 Ohms at 1 kHz
- Nominal load impedance: greater than 1.5 kOhms
Power and Connectivity
- Phantom power: +48 V required
- Output connector: 3-pin male XLR (hot: pin 2)
Dimensions and Weight
- Dimensions: 142 mm (length) x 39 mm (base) x 25 mm (height)
- Weight: 448 g
Technical specifications
| Frequency response | 30 Hz - 15 kHz |
| Category | studio microphone |
| Directivity | bidirectional |
| Capsule | ribbon dynamic |
| Connection | XLR |
| Color | Black |
Questions frequently asked
Does the Royer Labs SF-2 require phantom power?
A +48 V phantom power supply is required to operate its built-in active circuitry.
Which preamp should be used with this active ribbon microphone?
Its output level of -38 dBV reduces the normally high gain requirement associated with passive ribbons. The output impedance is 200 ohms at 1 kHz. A load impedance above 1.5 kOhms is recommended.
Is the SF-2 suitable for recording acoustic guitar or piano?
This model is designed for acoustic instruments, including piano, acoustic guitar, strings, and woodwinds. Its 1.8 micron aluminum ribbon covers a frequency response from 30 Hz to 15 kHz.
What is the polar pattern of the Royer Labs SF-2?
The figure-8 bidirectional pattern captures the front and rear of the microphone while rejecting the sides. This setup allows face-to-face duet recordings or Mid/Side use with a cardioid microphone.
Can it be placed in front of a powerful guitar amp?
With a maximum SPL level above 130 dB, this microphone can be used on a guitar amp or certain brass instruments. The ribbon element provides a smooth top end with an uncolored off-axis response.
