Royer Labs SF-24V - Manual (Page 3)

Introduction
SF-24V Vacuum Tube Stereo Ribbon Microphone
Congratulations on your purchase of a Royer Labs model SF-24V vacuum tube stereo ribbon
microphone. The SF-24V is a handcrafted precision instrument, capable of delivering superior
sound quality and exceptional performance. The SF-24V represents a new level of performance
for ribbon microphones, combining sophisticated technological advancements with old-world
craftsmanship. The SF-24V incorporates two independent head amplification systems that utilize
proven vacuum tube technology. This enables the SF-24V to deliver the same sensitivity that the
recording industry has grown accustomed to with modern condenser microphones. The
amplifying circuits are not limited by a 48-volt phantom power source, thus allowing the
SF-24V to deliver superior headroom. In addition, the electronic circuitry completely isolates
each ribbon element from impedance mismatches, short circuits and other anomalies that can
degrade microphone performance or damage the sensitive ribbon elements.
This instruction manual describes the SF-24V, 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.
Royer Labs products are manufactured to the highest industrial standards using only the finest
materials obtainable. Your model SF-24V went though extensive quality control checks before
leaving the factory. Normal care is all that is required to assure a lifetime of trouble-free service.
Please read this manual thoroughly in order to become familiar with all of the SF-24V’s
capabilities. It will assist you in making the most of your microphone's superior acoustic
properties. This manual is a handy reference guide and we suggest you refer to it whenever
questions arise on the use and care of your SF-24V vacuum tube ribbon microphone.
Active & Vacuum Tube Ribbon Technology
The heart of the SF-24V is its proprietary electronic system consisting of specially designed
toroidal transformers and electronic buffering stages. This system provides excellent frequency
response, extremely low noise and distortion, and high SPL handling (130 dB) without the use of
pads. It gives the SF-24V an output level comparable to that of condenser microphones, and its
buffer stages provide a low impedance output and present a perfect impedance load to each of
the ribbon elements. Standard passive ribbon microphones suffer substantially degraded
frequency response and lowered gain when they are paired to a preamp with too low an input
impedance. With the SF-24V’s active vacuum tube electronics, the microphone’s frequency
response and output are much less affected by variations in the input impedance of the following
preamp.
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