The SF-12 is a stereo microphone that picks up in the "Blumlein" pattern. What's a "Blumlein" pattern you ask? Named for Alan Blumlein [who was one of the pioneers of stereo audio while working for EMI in the 1930's] a "Blumlein" pickup pattern is when you take two microphones that each employ the figure 8 [bi-directional] pattern, and offset their pickup elements 90°. With the figure 8 pattern you get a true, full bandwidth "null" between the front and rear of the capsule. When you offset two of these by 90° you get 4 lobes of pickup pattern that attain true stereo while netting a basically "omni-directional" result. The SF-12 has become a favorite drum overhead mic around Mercenary's studio. Just put the thing over the center of the drum kit [usually that is in line with the kik drum pedal] put it 5-6 feet over the top of the drum throne [maybe move it a little so you get a nice image of the drums with the close mics if you're using any] and you're done. We have also used the SF-12 on Hammond B-3 organ, on acoustic guitar, and 1/2 of the SF-12 for recording horns and mandolin. The limits to what can be achieved with this tool are limited only by your imagination.
royer sf-12 features
An SF-12 is actually two matched microphones placed one above the other, each aimed 45 degrees from center. The frequency response is excellent regardless of the angle of sound striking the ribbons and off-axis coloration is negligible. When held vertically, connector down, the upper microphone is the left channel and the lower microphone is the right channel. The SF-12's extension cable comes with an adapter which splits into separate left and right XLR connectors.
The two 2-micron ribbons are of pure aluminum (99.99%), each weighing approximately 1/3 milligram and producing superb transient response. The magnet / polepiece structure allows a wide uniform frequency range 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.
Home | Gear | This Just In! | Swag | The Black Pages
|
|
Unauthorized reproduction is prohibited by law, subject to criminal prosecution, and just not cool.
Mercenary© US Pat & TM off.