The SF-2 ribbon microphone is a phantom powered version of Royer's original SF-1 ribbon microphone. Designed primarily for classical applications and acoustic instruments, the SF-2 combines high-quality audio performance with exclusive active electronics for ribbon microphones. The SF-2's output of -38 dB puts its sensitivity on par with that of phantom powered condenser microphones, allowing it to be used with a wide variety of mic pre's regardless of gain characteristics. The unique electronics and custom designed FET's used in the SF-2 deliver ultra-quiet operation, with self-noise of lower than 18 dB.

The SF-2's magnet/pole piece transducer structure gives a wide, uniform frequency response with no substantial peaks or dips, and the 1.8-micron ribbon element delivers superb transient response. Frequency response is excellent regardless of the angle of sound striking the ribbon and off-axis coloration is negligible.

Gain
Active Series ribbon mics are as sensitive as phantom powered condenser microphones, allowing you to use virtually any mic preamplifier or board pre. Conventional ribbon microphones are 15 to 30 dB less sensitive than condenser mics, necessitating the use of high-quality, high-gain microphone preamplifiers when recording quieter sound sources like acoustic instruments, vocals, room ambiance, etc. The SF-2 contains a fully balanced, discrete head amplifier system which utilizes a specially wound toroidal transformer and ultra-low noise FET's to deliver a sensitivity of -38 dB. Even with extremely quiet sound sources, you'll have enough level to drive any recording medium.
The SF-2's electronics create no additional self-noise. All of the SF-2's higher output comes from its large, specially wound toroidal transformer which provides an additional 14 dB of 'free gain'. The phantom powered system operates at less than unity, adding no noise of its own.

Impedance Matching
The electronics in the SF-2 provide a perfect load to the ribbon element at all times, allowing the microphone to deliver 100% of its full sonic potential regardless of the input characteristics of the following mic-pre. Due to its low-impedance output, SF-2s can be used on extremely long cable runs with minimal signal loss.

Features
• Phantom powered circuitry provides high output and impedance matching
• High SPL capabilities (130 dB @ 70 Hz)
• No distortion up to maximum SPL rating
• Extremely low residual noise
• Ribbon element not affected by heat or humidity
• Absence of high frequency phase distortion
• Equal sensitivity from front and back of microphone
• Consistent frequency response regardless of distance
• High efficiency toroidal transformer and gold plated output connector
• Very low magnetic leakage
• Matte Black finish reduces reflected light for live and on-camera use

Specifications
Electrodynamic pressure gradient with active
electronics.
Polar Pattern: Figure-8
Generating Element: 1.8-micron aluminum ribbon
Frequency Range: 30 HZ - 15,000 HZ +/-2db
Sensitivity: -38 dBv Ref 1 Volt per Pascal
Output Impedance: 200 Ohms @ 1khz
Rated Load Impedance: > 1500 Ohms
Maximum SPL: > 130 dB SPL
Output Connector: Male XLR 3 pin (Pin 2 Hot)
Power Requirements: 48-Volt Phantom
Supply Current: 4 mA
High grade neodymium magnet assembly
Stainless steel internal baffle and dampener
Weight: 448 grams (15.8 oz.)
Dimensions: 142 mm x 39mm (base) x 25mm (top)
Finish: Matte black