Pioneer T 5000

Pioneer T-5000 Overview
The Pioneer T-5000 is a mid-1960s compact stereo reel-to-reel tape deck from Pioneer's early consumer T-series, designed for basic home recording and playback with a focus on affordability and portability.​

Transport and Format

• Tracks: 4-track/2-channel stereo (¼-inch tape, forward-only).

• Heads: 3 permalloy heads (separate record, playback, erase) for full monitoring capability.

• Motors: Dual-motor design (capstan and take-up reel).

• Speeds: 3¾ ips and 7½ ips (9.5/19 cm/s), NAB equalization.

• Reels: Up to 7-inch maximum size, suitable for standard consumer tapes (360–720 ft).​

Performance Specs

• Frequency response: 40 Hz–16 kHz (±3 dB) at 7½ ips; narrower at 3¾ ips.

• Wow/flutter: ~0.12% WRMS at 7½ ips.

• S/N ratio: ~55 dB; THD <2%; crosstalk >45 dB.​

Electronics and I/O

• Inputs: Mic (0.25 mV), line (77 mV nominal, RCA jacks).

• Outputs: Line (0.775 V), headphones (8 Ω).

• Features: Mic/line mixing, basic bias/EQ switches, manual controls, no solenoid operation.

Physical Details

• Dimensions: ~370 × 260 × 200 mm (14.6 × 10.2 × 7.9 in).

• Weight: ~10–12 kg (22–26 lb).

• Power: 110–120/220–240 V AC versions; solid-state electronics (~20–30 transistors).​

Audiophile Context

As an early upgrade over single-head T-115 siblings, the T-5000 delivers respectable stereo performance for casual 1960s use but requires belt/pinch roller servicing today; a solid entry for collectors before Pioneer's robust RT-series 10.5-inch decks like the RT-1011.