Pioneer Exclusive C3
(1973 - 1977)

Superlative. And first of a long-lived series that, apparently, still lives on in Japan with the C-7 and M-8. Those with a sharp eye will recognize some similarities with the SPEC preamps (C-73 and C-77 in Japan) - only better, even better, bigger and... pricier. Upgraded as C3a in 1979 and replaced by the much awarded C-5 and C5a in 1982.

Exclusive is a Pioneer series which from its inception produced only the best possible sources (P3, P3a, P10, F3) and high-end horn systems, the latter sharing some with Pioneer's TAD professional division.

It seems the worldwide distribution of the Exclusive was planned but never completely carried on. Unless one is willing to import some Exclusives from Japan, the SPEC units are the closest way to Pioneer's super upper units...