Phase formations in Pb(Zn 1 / 3 Ta 2 / 3 )O 3 , with Ba partially/fully substituted for Pb as a perovskite stabilizer, were studied. Ceramic powders were prepared by a B-site precursor method in order to enhance the perovskite yields. Lattice parameters of the pyrochlore and perovskite structures were determined. Weak-field low-frequency dielectric properties of the ceramics were measured, and diffuseness characteristics reflected in the dielectric spectra were evaluated. Microstructures of the fracture surfaces were examined.