Pioneer SE-405 (1973–1980)
A pair of open-back stereo headphones made in Japan during the mid-1970s, with individual volume controls and a focus on dynamic bass reproduction.
Overview
The Pioneer SE-405 is a pair of open-back stereo headphones made by Pioneer in Japan from 1973 to 1980. They belong to Pioneer's SE series. They have an adjustable headband, a black faux leather finish, and separate volume controls for the left and right sides. Technical documentation is sparse. Surviving units turn up at flea markets and in online sales around the world, and some listings include the original box and stand.
Specifications
| Product type | Stereo headphones, Open headphone |
| Driver type | Dynamic |
| Frequency response | 20 Hz – 20 kHz (reported by multiple sources); conflicting report of 9 Hz - 40,000 Hz (Facebook post) |
| Impedance | 8 Ω (reported by hifi-wiki.com); conflicting report of 32 ohms (Facebook post) |
| Distortion factor | <0.8% |
| Max. input power | 1,000 mW |
| Features | Adjustable headband, Left and right individual volume control, Padded multi volume control |
| Color | Black (faux leather) |
| Manufactured in | Japan |
| Years of manufacture | 1973–1980 |
Reception & Use
Owners describe the SE-405 as having "crisp highs and resonant lows" with "extreme bass in your ears." One user said they ensure "full reproduction of the constantly present dynamic bass." They show up in vintage headphone review discussions, where they get compared to other models in Pioneer's lineup.
Market
Used SE-405s sell worldwide. Flea market finds have gone for as little as $8, while other listings have reached A$150 or R1600. Units are often sold as "Used - Good" condition and sometimes come with the original box and stand. Owners report one known issue, "Left Ear Crackle," which suggests aging in the internal wiring or connections.
eBay Listings
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Related Models
- Pioneer SE-305 (1982)
- Pioneer SE-21 (1979)
- Pioneer SE-4 (1975)
- Pioneer SE 205
- Pioneer SE 500
- Yamaha HP-3 (1978)
- AKG 240-DF
- AKG K-100
- AKG K-180
- AKG K-240-DF