Pioneer Cs787 Extra Quality [extra Quality] -

Pioneer CS-787 (circa 1984) is a vintage 3-way bass reflex loudspeaker system known for providing a classic "Old School" sound with a particular emphasis on room-filling clarity and depth. While often categorized as a mid-to-entry level vintage speaker, it is prized by enthusiasts for its shimmering highs tight bass Key Specifications System Type : 3-way, bass reflex design. Power Handling : Rated at 50W nominal 80W music power Driver Configuration : 200 mm (approx. 8-inch) cone for full lows. : 77 mm cone. : 66 mm cone. Frequency Response : 40 Hz to 20,000 Hz. : Typically 6.3 to 8 Ohms Performance Review Highlights Sound Signature

: Users describe the sound as having "outstanding midrange presence" and "natural, not boomy" bass when the cabinet and drivers are well-maintained. Build Quality : These units were Made in Japan

during the golden age of hi-fi manufacturing. They often feature genuine walnut or wood-finish cabinets that double as fine furniture. Efficiency

: They are noted for being highly efficient compared to modern speakers, meaning they do not require a massive power amplifier to perform well; a 50W amp is often sufficient to make them "shine". Durability : Some versions utilize cambric surrounds pioneer cs787 extra quality

(cloth-based) instead of foam, which are less prone to the "foam rot" commonly found in other vintage gear. Critical Considerations Vintage Limitations

: Some audiophiles note that this series can be "a bit tubby" in the mid-bass depending on room placement. Maintenance

: If you are buying a used pair, check for cracks in the paper cones or missing terminal pins, which are common on units of this age. Market Position Pioneer CS-787 (circa 1984) is a vintage 3-way

: While solid performers, they are generally viewed as "good value" budget vintage items rather than "world-class" audiophile monitors. compatible vintage amplifiers to pair with these speakers?

The Quad-Driver Array

The most striking visual feature is the driver arrangement. The large 12-inch woofer handles the low-end with surprising agility. Unlike modern subwoofers that aim for rumble, this woofer focuses on punch and texture—ideal for rock, jazz, and acoustic bass.

The twin tweeter array (a dome and a horn supertweeter) was Pioneer’s solution to the “air band” issue of the era. The standard tweeter covers up to 18 kHz, while the horn extends to 22 kHz, adding sparkle to cymbals and harmonics without harshness. Low Frequencies (Bass): This is the defining characteristic

4. Sonic Character (Sound Signature)

The "Extra Quality" moniker was marketing, but the sonic performance validates it as a competent musical performer with a specific flavor:

• Low Frequencies (Bass): This is the defining characteristic. The 12-inch woofer moves a significant amount of air. The bass is warm, thick, and punchy. It is not "tight" or "fast" by modern standards, but it is deeply satisfying for rock, jazz, and funk. It produces a physical sensation of the music.
• Midrange: The dual mid-range drivers create a lush, warm, and somewhat recessed (laid-back) midrange. Vocals sound smooth and non-fatiguing. This contributes heavily to the speaker’s relaxed presentation; it never sounds harsh or shouty.
• High Frequencies: The dome tweeter offers decent extension but is restrained compared to modern titanium or ribbon tweeters. It provides detail without "sparking" or sibilance.
• Soundstage: Due to the front baffle design and driver layout, imaging is wide but not strictly pinpoint accurate. It creates a "wall of sound" rather than a precise holographic image.

Summary: The sound is colored but musical. It forgives poor recordings, making mp3s and vintage vinyl sound rich and full.

Sound Signature

This is where the CS-787 divides opinion.

The Pros:

• Effortless Bass: The 16-inch woofer moves a lot of air. It doesn't punch like a modern subwoofer; rather, it provides a warm, enveloping "chest thump" that excels with rock, funk, and orchestral bass drums.
• High Sensitivity: At 96dB, a 15-watt tube amp or a vintage Pioneer SX-series receiver (like the SX-980 or SX-1250) will drive these to room-filling levels with ease.
• Live Sound: Because of the horn tweeter and large woofer, live recordings (The Grateful Dead, Led Zeppelin, Miles Davis) sound incredibly present. You feel like you are in the room.

The Caveats (Vintage Character):

• Lack of "Modern" Detail: Compared to modern studio monitors, the treble can sound slightly rolled-off or "polite." The horn super-tweeter extends to 20kHz, but without the razor-edge sharpness of a modern metal dome.
• Midrange Honk: The dual 4.5-inch mids can occasionally sound a little forward or "cupped" on certain vocals (think early 70s David Bowie). This is part of their charm for some, a flaw for others.
• Crossover Age: If you buy a pair today, you must recap the crossovers. The original electrolytic capacitors dry out after 40+ years, making the speakers sound muddy and veiled.