The Pioneer RT-707 represents a defining moment in the evolution of open reel tape decks. Released in the late 1970s during the golden age of high-fidelity home audio, the Pioneer RT-707 reflects Pioneer’s engineering innovation, audiophile-grade performance, and aesthetic refinement. This 4-head, 3-motor, 2-speed reel deck was designed not only to compete with professional studio gear but also to make such performance accessible in a home audio setup, delivering both sonic excellence and operational ease in a compact, stylish unit.
At the heart of the Pioneer RT-707 is a 3-motor drive system, featuring a precision AC Servo direct-drive capstan motor and two 8-pole inner-rotor induction motors for reel take-up and rewind. The capstan is driven directly, not via belts or pulleys, eliminating issues like belt wear, flutter, slippage, and ageing. This results in superb rotational accuracy and stability, with wow and flutter measured at no more than 0.05 percent WRMS. Direct-drive operation also improves signal-to-noise ratio, reduces power consumption, eliminates induction hum, and allows for precise pitch control via a frequency-generated reference signal.
Reel handling is equally robust. The tape path is engineered with tight tolerances and features a heavy-duty aluminium front panel and a die-cast frame. Both supply and take-up sides feature identical tape tension regulators that ensure balanced tension for consistent tape-to-head contact. The die-cast pinch roller arm is resilient and designed for long-term reliability under constant use. Quick-action Pause is included for real-time operation, with a mechanism that moves the pinch roller away from the capstan instantly and returns it just as quickly, so you never miss a beat while recording or editing.
The Pioneer RT-707’s head system consists of four heads: two playback heads (including one for reverse playback), one record head, and one erase head. Playback and recording heads are made from hard Permalloy for long life and high fidelity, while the erase head is a durable ferrite type. Pioneer’s custom-designed playback and recording amplifier circuitry uses proprietary ICs to maximise dynamic range and minimise noise. Mic input stages accept impedances as low as 600 ohms, allowing for accurate live recording without additional mic preamps.
Recording options are flexible, with independent left and right recording buttons and separate input level controls for MIC and LINE signals per channel. Users can record in left-only, right-only, or full stereo mode. Two-step switches for bias and EQ give users four selectable tape settings, accommodating a wide range of tape formulations including those optimised for high-frequency response or minimal distortion. The Pioneer RT-707 offers exceptional performance at both 19.05 cm/sec and 9.5 cm/sec, with frequency response ranging from 20 Hz to 28,000 Hz at the higher speed, and from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz at the lower speed. Signal-to-noise ratio is rated above 58 dB, and total harmonic distortion remains below 1 percent.
One of the Pioneer RT-707’s standout features is its highly reliable auto-reverse playback system. Using a sensing foil applied to the tail of the tape or any other designated point, the deck can automatically reverse direction for continuous play. Auto-repeat playback is also possible by combining the sensing foil with the built-in tape counter set to zero, creating a closed loop for infinite repeat play between any two points. Transport operation is fully logic-controlled, allowing seamless transitions between PLAY, FAST FORWARD, REWIND, and RECORD modes without stopping first. This system protects the tape while offering timer-controlled operation and remote automation.
Pitch control allows for ±6 percent variation, ideal for correcting playback speed on older or mismatched recordings. The pitch adjustment is electronically locked out during recording to prevent unintentional detuning. Large, clear VU meters with long-throw needles provide precise level monitoring, and REC, PAUSE, and DIRECTION indicator lamps give clear visual feedback. One-touch reel clamps simplify tape loading, while a rear-panel stereo output level control allows users to set and forget the output level, making volume adjustments exclusively via their amplifier or receiver.
Connectivity options are extensive. MIC inputs accept 0.25 mV signals into 27k ohms, while LINE inputs accept 50 mV into 100k ohms. Outputs include 450 mV nominal and 700 mV max into 50k ohms, and a DIN option is available for standardised European integration. A headphone output delivers 70 mV into 8 ohms for private monitoring.
Visually, the Pioneer RT-707 is built to impress. The symmetrical brushed aluminium faceplate, EIA-standard rack mount dimensions, and tightly grouped controls reflect Pioneer’s design ethos of combining form with function. Measuring 480 mm wide by 230 mm high by 356 mm deep and weighing 19.8 kg, the Pioneer RT-707 offers solid build quality in a size that suits modern audio racks. Each unit includes a 7-inch metal take-up reel (PR-85), stereo connecting cables, a head cleaning kit, splicing tape, and a sensing foil strip.
Power options are globally compatible, with 120V models for North America and switchable 220V and 240V models for other regions, all supporting 50 to 60 Hz operation. Power consumption is rated at 120 watts maximum. Reference specifications were established using Scotch No. 206 tape with NAB standards for bias and EQ calibration. All measurements, including frequency response, signal-to-noise, wow and flutter, and channel separation, follow strict JIS methodology.
The Pioneer RT-707 is much more than just a high-quality open reel tape deck. It is a symbol of the peak era of hi-fi engineering, combining robust mechanics, thoughtful features, and long-term reliability. Its auto-reverse system, pitch control, dual-speed functionality, and flexible bias/EQ settings allow it to perform across a wide range of use cases, from critical listening to creative production. While not marketed to professional studios, its build quality and fidelity rival many professional decks of the time.
Even decades after its release, the Pioneer RT-707 remains highly desirable among collectors, audio engineers, and vintage tape enthusiasts. It delivers the full experience of open reel tape — the sound, the tactile control, and the mechanical beauty — in a compact and thoroughly capable package. This is a deck built not just to function, but to endure, making it one of the most respected and iconic machines of its kind.
