Pioneer TX-710 (1980–1981)
An AM/FM stereo tuner from Pioneer’s early 1980s lineup, built with advanced MOS FET and IC technology for high selectivity and low distortion.
Overview
The Pioneer TX-710 is an AM/FM stereo tuner produced from 1980 to 1981. It was designed using dual-gate MOS FETs and high-integration ICs to deliver strong interference rejection and precise signal handling. The unit supports FM and AM (MW) bands, with a digital tuning scale and dedicated output controls for both bands. It belongs to Pioneer’s Blue Line series and pairs with amplifiers like the SA-710.
Specifications
| Type | AM/FM stereo tuner |
| FM Tuner Section Circuit system | MOS FET RF1-stage, 4-series varicon 5-speed limiter quadrature detection |
| FM Practical sensitivity (IHF) | 1.9 μV |
| FM Capture Ratio (IHF) | 1dB |
| FM Effective selectivity (IHF) | 60dB |
| FM Signal-to-noise ratio | 70dB |
| FM Image Interference Ratio (82 MHz) | 85 dB or more |
| FM IF Interference Ratio (82 MHz) | 100 dB or more |
| FM Spurious interference ratio | 100 dB or more |
| FM AM suppression ratio | 55dB |
| FM Harmonic distortion factor | Mono : not more than 0.2% Stereo : not more than 0.4% |
| FM Frequency response (stereo) | 20 Hz to 15 kHz + 0.2 -2.0 dB 50 Hz to 10 kHz + 0.2-0.5 dB |
| FM Stereo separation | 1 kHz : 40 dB or more 50 Hz to 10 kHz : 30 dB or more |
| FM Carrier leak suppression ratio | 65dB |
| FM Antenna | 300 Ω Balanced Type 75 Ω Unbalanced Type |
| FM Muting | ON-OFF |
| FM MPX Noise Filter | ON-OFF |
| AM Tuner Section Circuit system | Untuned RF1-stage 2-train varicon |
| AM Practical sensitivity (IHF, bar antenna) | 300 μV/m |
| AM Practical sensitivity (IHF) | 15 μV |
| AM Selectivity | 35dB |
| AM Signal-to-noise ratio | 50dB |
| AM Image interference ratio | 45 dB or more |
| AM IF interference ratio | 55 dB or more |
| AM Antenna | Ferrite bar antenna included |
| General Output Level / Impedance | Fixed : 650mV/4.7k Ω Variable : 70 mv ~ 2V/300 Ω |
| General Semiconductor used | Transistor : 13 FET : 1 IC : 3 Diode, etc. : 8 pcs |
| General Power supply voltage | 100 VAC, 50Hz/60Hz |
| General Power outlet | Power switch not linked : 1 system |
| General Power consumption | 25W |
| General External dimensions | Width 430x Height 138x Depth 345 mm |
| General Weight | 7.7kg |
Design
The TX-710 uses a dual-gate MOS FET in the front end with a 4-series frequency linear varicon to reduce cross modulation and improve interference rejection. Its IF section features a proprietary high-density IC and a 5-stage limiter for superior performance. A phase-linear ceramic filter enhances signal selectivity, while quadrature detection ensures low distortion. The MPX section uses a double-balanced differential demodulation circuit with a dedicated IC to improve stereo separation and reduce SCA beat interference. A sharp low-pass filter minimizes carrier leakage. The AM section includes a dedicated IC with untuned RF amplification and a balanced mixer for improved spurious characteristics, along with a ceramic filter for sharp IF selectivity. The signal meter uses a limiter-stage level detector for improved linearity. Dual output terminals—fixed and variable—are provided, with independent level controls for FM and AM. An FM muting circuit reduces tuning noise, and an MPX noise filter suppresses broadcast noise without affecting sound quality. A multi-path terminal allows connection to an SD-100 or oscilloscope for optimal antenna alignment.
Context
The Pioneer TX-710 is part of the Blue Line series and pairs with the SA-710 amplifier. It shares design similarities with the TX-710L, though the standard TX-710 lacks longwave (LW) reception.
Market
Listed prices in Japan as of April 18, 2026, range from ¥3,630 to ¥5,500. The original list price was ¥43,000 around 1973, though production occurred from 1980 to 1981, with a German list price of 698 DM.
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