Pioneer SE-500 (1975–1978)

Stereo piezoelectric headphones using high-polymer drivers, produced by Pioneer for high-fidelity listening.

Overview

The Pioneer SE-500 is a pair of stereo piezoelectric headphones. The maker's official name for them is "High Polymer Stereo Headphones." They were built in Japan and sold as high-performance gear for audiophiles in the mid-to-late 1970s. The driver is a high-polymer piezo-electric design, which is not the conventional dynamic type. Pioneer aimed for flat frequency response and low distortion at typical listening levels.

Specifications

Production years	1975–1978
Weight	315 g
Frequency response	20 - 20,000 Hz
Distortion factor	<0.8 % at 1 kHz, 100 dB SPL
Impedance	30V input
Maximum SPL	100 dB
Cord length	2.5 m
Made in	Japan
Original price	$45.00 (Suggested factory list price)

Design

The SE-500 uses high-polymer piezo-electric drivers. They are large planar drivers made from high-performance polymer materials. The design aims for low distortion and extended frequency response. The headphones are full-size and over-ear, with a fixed 2.5-meter cable.

Context

The SE-500 was part of Pioneer's early high-fidelity headphone lineup. It was the company's attempt to enter the premium audio market with a new kind of transducer. It sat alongside other high-end audio equipment of the era, and the piezoelectric design was meant to deliver accurate sound reproduction.

Market

Current listings show the SE-500 selling for around $50, often with the original case and paperwork. The ear pads are the common wear problem. They typically end up as bare foam over time, so extended use means restoring them.