These two professional grade tape decks were the most expensive open reel decks Pioneer ever made. Introduced in late 1976, they utilised the RTU 11/2T transport unit and either one or two TAU 11 pre-amplifiers. They were, of course designed for 10½" reels and could record and play back at both 7½ ips and 15 ips. Both models were equipped with three heads. The RT-2022 featured two-track heads with two channels and the RT-2044 featured a JT 2044T four track/four channel head unit. The head assemblies were interchangeable.

Both models were considerably larger than the other open reel decks in the Pioneer line. The RT-2022 measured 18¼" w x 21¾" h x 10¾" d and weighed over 62 pounds. Its list price was $US 1250.00. The RT-2044 was the same width but was six inches taller at 27.50 inches and having the same depth. It weighed 74 pounds.

List price was $US 1600.00. Both decks were still offered in 1980, but price had climbed considerably, with the RT-2044 listing for over $2000 and the RT-2022 at just under $1600.00.

Additional images and test report for this recorder are featured on the CD-ROM.