Pioneer HPM-700 (1980–1982)

A high-fidelity, 4-way bass-reflex loudspeaker system designed by Bart Locanthi and his team of ex-JBL engineers.

Overview

The Pioneer HPM-700 is a 4-way, 4-driver loudspeaker system built between 1980 and 1982. The cabinet is bass-reflex. It belongs to Pioneer's HPM series, which also includes the HPM-500, HPM-700, HPM-900 and HPM-1100 - all four share one service manual addition document. The speakers are noted for their horn-loaded high polymer drivers, and collectors consider them rare. The original price was approximately $275 USD or 700 DM.

Specifications

Type	4-way, 4-driver loudspeaker system
Dimensions	350 x 610 x 321 mm (WxHxD)
Weight	14.8 kg
Nominal Impedance	8 ohms
Power handling	120 watts
Woofer size	10-inch
Frequency Response	30Hz to ...
Cabinet type	Bass-Reflex

Design

Bart Locanthi and his team of ex-JBL engineers designed the HPM-700. It uses horn-loaded high polymer type drivers in a 4-way configuration with a 10-inch woofer. The bass-reflex cabinet is there to boost low-frequency response.

Context

The HPM-700 sits in a series with the HPM-500, HPM-900 and HPM-1100, all covered by a shared service manual addition document. Pioneer positioned it within its high-fidelity speaker lineup in the early 1980s.

Market

These speakers often get bought as "projects" and may need restoration. A common problem is missing midrange drivers. Some owners ask for help restoring units fitted with non-OEM components. They are described as very rare, and enthusiasts discuss them on forums like AudioKarma. The original price was approximately $275 USD or 700 DM.