Royer Labs SF-12 - Manual (Page 13)

Caution: Do not check the SF-12 with an ohmmeter or continuity tester, and do not connect the
unit to an input device designed to power a capacitor microphone. Strong winds and mechanical
shocks should be avoided.
Care for the Optical Black Finish
The SF-12'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.
The SF12's body is comprised of a low carbon steel alloy. Its finish consists of black chrome
deposited over a nickel substrate, creating a finish that minimizes the reflective nature of the
metal surface. A small amount of oil has been worked into the finish at the factory to protect it.
Over time, some of this oil will be drawn out due to "wicking" action; the physical handling of
the microphone, absorbent materials it is exposed to (like the foam padding of the microphone
case), etc. As the oils are drawn out of the microscopic surface layer, the microphone finish may
develop an uneven appearance. If this happens, simply massage the microphone gently with a
lint free cloth treated with a few drops of light machine oil or WD-40¨ (apply the oil to the cloth,
not to the microphone). Be very careful whenever working around the transducers to avoid
contamination of the ribbon elements. Following this simple procedure will protect the finish and
renew it to its original luster.
CAUTION!
Due to the transducer’s powerful magnets, keep recorded tapes, spring-wound watches and
personal credit cards with magnetic coding away from the microphone to prevent possible
damage.
Features
• Wide, Smooth Frequency Range
• Closely Matched Characteristics
• Negligible Off-Axis Coloration
• Excellent Separation and Imaging
• True Figure-8 Polar Patterns
• X-Y or M-S Recording
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