Car radios produced in our time are in many ways superior to older models. However, some of the rather old radio tape recorders have not yet lost their relevance and are capable of overtaking most modern "Chinese" in sound quality. This review is dedicated to just such a model, called the Pioneer 88RS. In narrow circles of connoisseurs of high-quality car audio, it is considered a legend, because thanks to its high-quality performance and powerful filling, it can surprise not only with loudness, but also with clarity of reproduction. Let's take a closer look at its features, and also get acquainted with the opinions of users who have had enough time to draw a conclusion about its quality.
Model in brief
Developed in 2006, Pioneer's DEH-88RS was the state of the art. Its cost was quite high, and was due to the presence of a 24-bit digital-to-analog converter, orsame, in simple terms, the processor. At that time, this sound processing technology provided almost unlimited possibilities. That is why many lovers of high-quality sound chased this model.
In addition to the technical component, the radio had a very peculiar design. Unlike modern 2-din car radios, it received very minimalistic controls. There is only one button on the front panel, and even that was responsible for dropping the panel. For control, two separate selectors are used, which can be used both for rotation and as buttons. To some, such a control mechanism may seem uncomfortable, but this feeling quickly passes. It just takes time to get used to. You can use the included remote control for initial setup.
Processor Features
Processor sound processing allowed for very fine tuning. So, the user has the opportunity to choose from several equalizer presets, or create their own settings. You can edit the sound power level of each of the connected speakers, as well as set the sound delay for the rear and front speakers. The ability to control the subwoofer output deserves special attention, thanks to which you can set not only the volume, but also the surround sound of the additional speaker.
Do not forget that during processing, the processor cleans up noise, due to which the samethe radio sounds much clearer and more pleasant, especially in areas with poor signal reception. The Pioneer 88RS processor has enough power to keep the interface running smoothly and responsive.
Input sources
In order to listen to your favorite music, you need its source. This radio has three options for receiving a sound signal. The first and most common is the radio receiver. It has the ability to automatically detect and store all found radio stations. Using the remote, according to the instructions for Pioneer 88RS, you can later delete unnecessary ones, leaving only those of them in the list whose music style you like the most.
The second source is a drive for playing discs. The radio tape recorder can play both classic AudioCDs and modern formats, including MP3 and WAV. Unfortunately, music playback is not available from electronic media such as USB flash drives or memory cards. When listening to recordings from licensed CDs, you can fully experience what this radio is capable of. The AudioCD format has a high bitrate, which allows the 24-bit converter to fully open up.
The third way to get an audio signal is to use a direct line input. Since this is a compact model, and not a 2-din version of the car radio, which occupies half the torpedo, the AUX connector is located on the back, and for convenience of using it, it is recommended to make an extension cable that will be placed on the front panel.
AdditionalFeatures
The radio can control devices connected to it, such as iPods. However, this requires special adapters that connect to the classic jack 3, 5. Thanks to them, it will be possible to switch tracks directly using the Pioneer 88RS2 selectors, without being distracted from driving.
The second feature is the ability to put the control panel on the steering wheel of the car. For this, a special switching connector is provided on the rear panel. Most of the standard remotes already installed on cars from the factory are supported by this radio, as the data exchange is made taking into account modern standards.
Positive reviews of the model
As mentioned above, the radio received a lot of enthusiastic responses. Analyzing feedback on the characteristics of the Pioneer 88RS, we can highlight the main points that were most often noted as positive by drivers:
- High sound quality. The presence of the processor allowed you to enjoy your favorite tunes without the slightest distortion.
- Deep and numerous settings. With the help of a detailed and simple menu, each user could achieve from the radio the sound that he personally would like.
- Powerful amplifier. The built-in Pioneer 88RS amplifier is enough to drive 4 speakers of 50 watts each without any problems, without distorting the sound and without adding wheezing to it at maximum volume.
- Possibility of installing the remote control on the steering wheel. Many drivers appreciated thisan additional option, since it has become even easier to control the radio without taking your eyes off the road.
- Quality anti-shock. Many radios are unable to hold a track when playing from a disc and driving on a bad road. In this model, this problem is not observed, which allows it to be used in almost any conditions.
Negative aspects of the model
There are not so many disadvantages of this radio, but they are also worth mentioning. The first and most important is the need to regularly clean the pressure rollers responsible for feeding and ejecting the disc in the Pioneer 88RS2. The problem is that over time, dust sticks to them, as a result of which they lose their ability to push the disc. The more dust in the machine, the more often cleaning is required.
By today's standards, some drivers are unhappy with the lack of a memory card slot, since this method of playing back their recordings is easier and more convenient than storing a large number of discs.
Conclusion
This radio is an excellent option for those who seek to achieve the highest quality sound. It is quite old, so you should not expect it to have modern "chips" like playing files from flash drives or connecting via Bluetooth. Nevertheless, at the same time, Pioneer 88RS is able to please with a very voluminous and powerful sound, beautiful design and pleasant ergonomics. Despite the rather high cost, it is able to fully recoupinvested in it by providing comfort during long trips.
