The Pioneer D-9601 Digital Audio Tape Deck was developed for professional applications and formed part of Pioneer’s Professional Sound Series. The Pioneer D-9601 was designed for users who required high performance digital audio reproduction and extended bandwidth beyond conventional DAT systems. Central to the Pioneer D-9601 was its 96kHz High Sampling Mode, enabling recording and playback across a frequency range extending to 44kHz.
In High Sampling mode, both the capstan motor and drum motor operate at double the standard speed. The drum rotates at 4000r.p.m. rather than 2000r.p.m., and tape speed increases to 16.3mm per second. This configuration allows broadband recording that extends beyond the limits of standard digital audio systems.
Because the mechanism operates at double speed, maximum recording time is reduced by half, meaning a 120-minute cassette provides 60 minutes of recording in HS mode. In addition to 96kHz, the Pioneer D-9601 also supports 88.2kHz sampling, offering flexibility depending on application requirements.
The Pioneer D-9601 incorporates an HS digital interface that permits digital copying in High Sampling mode using standard AES/EBU and IEC-958 terminals. High Sampling digital copying is achieved by linking two Pioneer D-9601 units via digital connection. The unit also features Double-Speed Digital Copying through its X2COPY mode. By connecting two Pioneer D-9601 machines, standard mode tapes recorded at 48kHz or 44.1kHz can be copied at double speed, halving the normal time required for duplication.
A Sampling Down-Conversion function is provided through the AES/EBU interface. Audio data recorded in HS mode at 96kHz can be output at 48kHz, and 88.2kHz material can be output at 44.1kHz using a decimation filter in HS mode, selectable via DIP switches on the rear panel. This allows masters recorded in High Sampling mode to be transferred to standard mode tapes.
The Pioneer D-9601 also includes an Auto ID Level Setting Control system. The threshold for recording Start IDs can be set in four steps: -40dB, -50dB, -60dB, or -70dB using threshold detection, and the selected level is memorised even when power is switched off. The machine is equipped with a high-output AT head and proprietary high-speed pulse flow A/D and D/A converters, as described in the original brochure.
Remote control capability was a key part of the Pioneer D-9601 design. The machine is fitted with RS-422 and 8-pin parallel remote terminals for integration into professional editing systems, and a wireless remote control was supplied to improve search efficiency and simplify character recording.
Additional functions include a Table of Contents feature that allows programme numbers, times, and related information to be recorded at the beginning of the tape. Analogue input recording is also possible at a sampling frequency of 44.1kHz. Independent level control switches for input and output permit switching between +4dBu and -10dBV operating levels.
An error checking function enables confirmation of recording results, and a selector switch permits choice of Copy ID recorded on tape. The Pioneer D-9601 was supplied with an EIA rack mount angle for installation in standard equipment racks.
Features
- 96kHz high sampling operation with doubled tape speed
- 4000rpm head drum rotation in high sampling mode
- Balanced XLR analogue inputs and outputs
- AES/EBU digital inputs and outputs
- Copy ID selector
- RS-422 serial control connector
- Parallel remote connector
- One-button head A/B error-check function
- Table of Contents writing with up to 50 alphanumerical characters
