Pioneer F-91 (1987–1990)
Pioneer F-91 AM/FM Digital Synthesizer Tuner produced between 1987 and 1990 as part of the Elite series.
Overview
The Pioneer F-91 AM/FM Digital Synthesizer Tuner is a high-end mono/stereo tuner made by Pioneer Corporation between 1987 and 1990. It belongs to Pioneer's "Elite" series and has a black finish with the Elite look. It is known for exceptional sensitivity and sound quality, with reliable reception and superior bass response. It is described as a no-nonsense tuner with solid performance and extreme accuracy in pulling in weak stations. An alternate variant, the Pioneer F-91 Urushi, likely has a special finish. One owner calls it a "fine tuner," and a forum member said he had wanted one for a long time.
Specifications
| Type | Mono/Stereo Tuner |
| Tuning bands | FM, MW |
| FM Tuning Range | 87.5 to 108 MHz |
| MW Tuning Range | 531 to 1602 kHz |
| FM Sensitivity | 0.85 µV |
| MW Sensitivity | 150 µV |
| FM Signal to Noise Ratio | 87 dB |
| MW Signal to Noise Ratio | 50 dB |
| FM Distortion | 0.07% |
| FM Selectivity | 85 dB |
| MW Selectivity | 40 dB |
| FM Frequency Response | 20 Hz to 15 kHz |
| FM Output | 650 mV |
| MW Output | 150 mV |
| Dimensions | 457 x 85 x 316 mm |
| Weight | 5.2 kg |
Design
The Pioneer F-91 uses the Active Real-Time Tracing System (ARTS), which automatically adjusts the IF bandwidth and tuning frequency to the signal. It has a digital tuning scale and the high-quality construction expected of the Pioneer Elite series.
Market
Market prices for the Pioneer F-91 run from €1 (as part of a bundle) to €5,000 (for a complete system). Typical standalone units are listed between €200 and €500. A known issue is the power indicator LED staying on while the LCD display stays dark and the unit ignores the preset station buttons. A service manual is available, with schematics and PCB information. Checking the power supply voltages is a suggested first diagnostic step.
eBay Listings
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.
Related Models
- Pioneer SX 300 (1971-1972)
- Pioneer SX 450 (1976-1978)
- Pioneer SX 525 (1973-1975)
- Pioneer SX 550 (1975–1978)
- Pioneer SX 555 (1970-1971)
- Kenwood KR 3200 (1973-1975)
- Kenwood KR 3400 (1977-1979)
- Kenwood KR 4070 (1977-1979)
- Kenwood KR 4200 (1975-1977)
- Marantz 1515 (1976-1978)