Pioneer PD-91 Vintage CDP

[RobbieGong]

Some years ago, has to be at least 4 or so, I purchased one of these lovely pieces after extensive 'research' on line etc, after which I decided the PD-91 was the one for me, for a number of reason.

However, due to vinyl addiction, one thing and the other, I've just never ever really give the thing a good run out and evaluated it's presentation - something I've felt a bit guilty about and wanted to do in order to inform my self and actually know what the PD91 does and is about.

Fast forward to now and again, with one thing or the other and awaiting a Yannis tonearm cable for my recently acquired SP-10, I decided to fire up the PD-91 and go through some of my fave cd's.

All I can say is blimey ! What a pleasant surprise. In a nutshell the PD-91 is a stellar performer.

One of the reasons I came to th decision of nabbing one, was reading amongst its attributes, its presentation being described as 'analogue like' and coupled with the other attributes, stonking build and fabulous (IMO) looks, that was the icing on the cake, the done deal then, so to speak - I just had to have one.

And indeed, I have to agree, it doesn't appear to have that typical digital, cd, slightly glassy presentation / nature of cd and which you associate as inherent / coming with the territory of cd's and cdp's.

The detail retrieval is fabulous, very neutral, texture and timbre of all instruments and vocals is first rate / spot on. I find it very accurate in terms of how it presents each recording.

One evening before bed has turned into about 7 or 8 on the trot now. After another sensational sesh tonight, I just couldn't help but share and express - The PD-91 is absolutely a most excellent cdp / music player

[Light Dependant Resistor]

Looking at the PD-91's schematic its easy to see why it sounds so good. It uses separate Left Right, Burr Brown PCM65 DAC's and three stages following each with fet buffers - quite an exotic player
- no wonder it sounds so good.

[p147]

I also have one and would never sell it, I doubt if you could find a modern equivalent one without having to spend a fortune.
Enjoy it while you can.

[Made in 1968]

I kinda see CD as not fit for the term 'Vintage' tbh..

[RobbieGong]

I kinda see CD as not fit for the term 'Vintage' tbh..

I've used the term 'vintage' in respect of the player

Either way, The PD-91 was launched in 1987 and was produced from '87-90 , that's 32 years.

Whenever I see the word vintage used in relation to hifi, it's pretty clear to me the word is referring to something that isnt particularly modern ie: new/nower day.


Dictionary meaning:

vintage
/ˈvɪntɪdʒ/


adjective
1.
relating to or denoting wine of high quality.

2.
denoting something from the past of high quality, especially something representing the best of its kind.

Seems pretty accurate in regards the PD-91 to me

*CD was launched in 1982, nearly 40yrs ago. Quality ? Some great cd recordings, some great /quality cdp's to play them on, even better in a good set up = Quality, high or otherwise IMHO

[Lawrence001]

Looking at the PD-91's schematic its easy to see why it sounds so good. It uses separate Left Right, Burr Brown PCM65 DAC's and three stages following each with fet buffers - quite an exotic player
- no wonder it sounds so good.

Not disputing what you're saying but why is it some people reckon the best DACs take the signal straight off the chip legs (usually NOS DACs I've noticed)? I guess it's similar to the passive/active pre debate.

[Spectral Morn]

Good player back in the day, I preferred the Marantz CD94 mk2

[RobbieGong]

Good player back in the day, I preferred the Marantz CD94 mk2

Never heard one but a looker and on that, as a starting point I'd have considered looking deeper into one if I wasnt settled and happy with the 91.

Stereophile found the sound... a bit meh lets say.... https://www.stereophile.com/content/...d-94-cd-player

[graham67]

Hi Robbie, I am afraid now you are going to have to post pics to keep us all happy ��

[Audio Al]

Hi Robbie, I am afraid now you are going to have to post pics to keep us all happy ��