Royer Labs - SF-12 Stereo Ribbon Microphone, Matched Pair Studio Mic for Drum Overheads and Ensemble Recording

The SF-12 stereo coincident ribbon microphone combines high quality audio performance with outstanding stereo separation and imaging. It is a modern ribbon design with no audible diffraction effects or cavity resonance. An SF-12 is actually two matched ribbon microphones placed one above the other; each aimed 45 degrees from center in the classic Blumlein configuration. The frequency response is excellent regardless of the angle of sound striking the ribbons and off-axis coloration is negligible. The SF-12 utilizes two 1.8-micron ribbons, each weighing approximately 1/3 milligram and producing superb transient response. The two ribbon transducers are magnet/pole piece structures that produce a wide, uniform frequency response with no substantial peaks or dips. The case is ingot iron and forms part of the magnetic return circuit, an effective system with low leakage flux which accounts for the relatively high sensitivity in a trim package. The SF-12's extension cable comes with a Y adapter that splits into separate 3-pin male XLR connectors labled Upper and Lower, for the upper and lower capsules of the microphone (when held vertically). The SF-12 is uncanny for creating you-are-there stereo recordings that capture not only the instrument being recorded, but, depending on positioning, the acoustic environment as well. If you pay carefull attention to the sound of an instrument or ensemble in the recording environment, you will likely find a place where it sounds best to you. Position the SF-12 in that place and you will capture that sound.

• Stereo Ribbon Design with True Blumlein Configuration: Features two matched ribbon elements positioned in a precise Blumlein configuration, delivering accurate stereo imaging and natural spatial depth. This design captures sound with realistic placement and balance, making it ideal for recording ensembles, acoustic instruments, and environments where true stereo reproduction is essential.
• Exceptional Stereo Imaging with Minimal Off Axis Coloration: Provides outstanding stereo separation with minimal off-axis coloration, ensuring consistent tonal accuracy regardless of sound source placement. The microphone maintains clarity and balance across the stereo field, allowing engineers to capture detailed recordings with a natural sense of space and dimension.
• Dual Ribbon Elements for Accurate and Balanced Response: Utilizes two 1.8-micron ribbon elements that deliver fast transient response and a smooth, uniform frequency range. This design avoids harsh peaks or dips, ensuring consistent tonal balance across different recording scenarios while preserving detail and natural sound characteristics in both channels.
• High Sensitivity Design with Low Noise and Wide Response: Engineered with a magnet and pole piece structure that provides high sensitivity and low noise performance. The design supports a wide frequency response with minimal distortion, allowing for clean and accurate capture of both subtle acoustic details and more dynamic sound sources.
• Ideal for Capturing Realistic Stereo Room & Instrument Sound: Designed to create immersive recordings that capture both the direct sound and surrounding acoustic environment. Suitable for orchestras, ensembles, room miking, and ambient recording, it allows engineers to reproduce a natural listening experience with depth, space, and precise stereo positioning.