Pioneer RT 1050

The Pioneer RT-1050 is a 1974–1980 enthusiast-grade, 10.5-inch reel-to-reel deck from Pioneer's high-end consumer lineup, built for 2-track stereo (half-track) recording with an optional 4-track head conversion.​

Transport and format

• Track system: Native 2-track, 2-channel stereo/mono; optional PP-204T plug-in head for 4-track stereo playback.​

• Heads: 3 total (record, playback, erase), permalloy composition for low noise and good HF response.​

• Motors: 3 – capstan (hysteresis synchronous with flywheel), 2 high-torque 6-pole induction reel motors with size-sensing tension (7-inch/10.5-inch reels).

• Speeds: 7½ ips (19 cm/s) and 15 ips (38 cm/s), NAB EQ.​

• Reels: Up to 10.5-inch NAB (740–1200 ft capacity); rewind 90–110 sec.

• No auto-reverse; portable design with folding handle and removable leather-trimmed front cover.​

Performance specs

• Frequency response: 30 Hz–22 kHz (±3 dB) at 15 ips.​

• Wow/flutter: ≤0.04% WRMS at 15 ips.​​

• S/N ratio: 57 dB (no NR).​

• Distortion: <1% at 1 kHz; stereo separation >53 dB; erase ratio typical >60 dB; 125 kHz bias.​

Electronics and I/O

• Inputs: Line (50 mV/25 V max, RCA), Mic (0.25 mV/80 mV max, jacks), DIN (15 mV).​

• Outputs: Line (0.3 V, RCA/DIN), Headphones.​

• Features: Mic/line mixing, 2-position bias fine-tune (Std/LH), 2-position EQ, memory stop, solenoid controls, extended-scale VU meters with peak LEDs.​​

Physical details

• Dimensions: 460 × 453 × 244 mm (18.1 × 17.8 × 9.6 in).​

• Weight: 22.5 kg (~50 lb).​

• Power: Multi-voltage (100/120/220/240 V AC), ~100–120 W; black cabinet vs. wood sides on RT-1020 siblings.​​

Audiophile character

Pioneer's "live recording" specialist bridges consumer hi-fi and semi-pro with half-track fidelity at 15 ips, robust 10.5-inch handling, and transport stability, though belts need servicing; rarer than quarter-track siblings, prized for clean highs and dynamics on good tapes.