Royer Labs SF-1 Ribbon Microphone, from Royer

The SF-1, although not the best seller in the Royer line is in some ways the little secret of the line. Of the group, the SF-1 is perhaps Royers most natural and flat performing microphone, as well as the most detailed. One important engineer discovered that the unique ability of the SF-1 to take unprecedented amounts of high-EQ boosting, has made it an amazing choice for vocals. Coupling the SF-1 with a nice EQ allows it to bring out incredible airiness, and open-ness not normally attributed with ribbons (due to their tendency to roll-off the high end), as well as achieve the brightness without the harshness (because of the extremely smooth sonic nature of ribbon microphones). Although these microphones are an absolute dream for classical applications, particularly winds, the new "discovery" of this mics performance for lead vocals in conjunction with a great EQ will likely make this one a new favorite among the line when the word finally gets out. If you are looking for an amazing vocal sound (and what that is unique to most of your competitors), this is one to add to the locker!

The SF-1 is an ultra-compact, monaural ribbon microphone, exhibiting flat frequency response and a well-balanced, panoramic sound field. The SF-1 has superb transient response due to its ultra low-mass 1.8-micron ribbon assembly. Frequency response is excellent regardless of the angle of sound striking the ribbon, and off-axis coloration is negligible.

The heart of the SF-1 is it's ribbon transducer proprietary cross-field motor assembly. Comprised of four powerful Neodymium magnets and Permendur iron pole-pieces, the cross-field design assures the shortest front-to-rear ribbon path length for best high frequency response. The case is fashioned from ingot iron and forms the magnetic return circuit, an effective system with low leakage flux which accounts for the relatively high sensitivity in a trim package.

Features

No internal active electronics to overload or produce 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 element.
Consistent frequency response regardless of distance
Very low magnetic leakage
High efficiency toroid matching transformer and gold plated output connector
Ultra compact package
Matte Black Chrome finish reduces reflected light for on-camera use.

Recommended Applications

Choir, Orchestra, String Sections
Overhead and Distance miking
Brass Instruments - Horn Sections Woodwinds, flute and other reed instruments.
Acoustic Piano, Harp.
Violin, cello and other stringed instruments
Percussion Instruments
Acoustic Guitar, Mandolin, Banjo