Royer Sf-2 Active Ribbon Mic

Royer Labs SF-2 Active Ribbon Microphone

The Royer Labs SF-2 is a phantom-powered active ribbon microphone featuring a figure-8 polar pattern and condenser-like output levels. It is the active version of Royers original SF-1, designed to deliver the natural, detailed sound of a ribbon microphone while eliminating the gain and impedance challenges commonly associated with passive ribbon designs.

Primarily intended for classical recording and acoustic instruments, the SF-2 integrates active electronics that provide a high output sensitivity of -38 dB, comparable to phantom-powered condenser microphones. This allows the SF-2 to work seamlessly with virtually any professional microphone preamp, regardless of gain capabilities. Custom-designed FET electronics ensure extremely quiet operation, with self-noise below 18 dB.

At the core of the SF-2 is Royers magnet and pole-piece transducer structure, delivering a wide and uniform frequency response. The 1.8-micron ribbon element is optimized for fast, accurate transient response and minimal coloration. Frequency response remains consistent regardless of the angle or distance of the sound source, resulting in exceptionally low off-axis coloration and natural spatial capture.

The SF-2s active circuitry continuously presents the correct load to the ribbon element, preventing tonal degradation caused by improper preamp impedance. Its low-impedance output allows for long cable runs with minimal signal loss, and the microphone is fully protected against phantom power damage, electrical faults, and miswired cables. With high SPL handling up to 130 dB and no distortion at rated levels, the SF-2 is equally at home in studio and live recording environments.

Key Features

• Active ribbon microphone with figure-8 polar pattern

• Phantom-powered design with high output sensitivity (-38 dB)

• Based on Royers original SF-1 ribbon microphone

• Custom FET electronics for ultra-low noise performance

• Self-noise lower than 18 dB

• High SPL handling up to 130 dB at 70 Hz

• No distortion up to maximum SPL rating

• 1.8-micron ribbon element for accurate transient response

• Consistent frequency response regardless of distance or angle

• Equal sensitivity from front and rear of the microphone

• Extremely low off-axis coloration

• Ribbon element unaffected by heat or humidity

• High-efficiency toroidal transformer

• Gold-plated output connector

• Very low magnetic leakage

• Matte black finish minimizes reflected light for live and on-camera use