Classic British audio brand Ruark has launched a complete revamp of the company’s mini-Bluetooth speakers. The new MR1 Mk3 speakers are the latest evolution of Ruark’s highly regarded MR1 desktop speaker system.
First introduced in 2013, the MR1 proved phenomenally popular. This latest iteration looks like its predecessors at first glance, but almost everything about the MR1 Mk3 is new. Ruark says the new design brings “even greater performance and versatility” to one of its most iconic designs.
Enhanced USB and Bluetooth
Combining clever design with precision engineering, MR1 Mk3 speakers are tuned to deliver a big sound from a compact form. Featuring enhanced USB audio and Bluetooth capabilities, the speakers are suitable for connecting to modern devices, whether for music streaming, television audio or high-resolution playback via a computer or turntable.
Since 1985, Ruark has designed and engineered all its products in-house, keeping a tight grip on sound quality as well as the aesthetics and manufacturing finesse. The new MR1 Mk3 reflects this approach and is the culmination of more than four decades of acoustic expertise and crafted speaker systems.
Ruark claims the MR1 Mk3 have ideal acoustic properties, while the handcrafted wood cabinets have a sophisticated look thanks to their bevelled front edges and new Slate Grey fabric grilles.
Redesigned Drivers
The new enclosure for the speakers has been subtly expanded to draw out optimum volume from Ruark’s newly designed NS+ Bass/Mid units. For the amplification, Ruark has adapted the Class D technology used in its R410 streamer, for a substantial increase in power output and control.
Equipped with AptX HD Bluetooth technology, the MR1 Mk3 supports wireless streaming and low-latency audio, making it suitable for use with TVs and streaming devices. Users can now adjust the volume directly from the connected device, enabling full control via a television remote when used in this setup.
For wired applications, the MR1 Mk3 has a USB audio input making it suitable for direct connection to computers or audio equipment that have a USB output. This new feature should make the MR1 Mk3 a popular choice with both music fans and serious audiophiles who want the highest resolution playback.
Additional line-in and optical inputs are also provided and offer a bit more flexibility for connecting third-party devices such as a Wi-Fi music streamer. A dedicated turntable input is also included, featuring a high-quality moving magnet phono stage with variable gain, making it a simple and effective option for vinyl playback.
Despite the compact form of the MR1 Mk3 speakers, Ruark claims they can fill a room with sound. For users who desire an extended bass response—particularly for movie or gaming use—a subwoofer output is provided. Ruark’s own RS1 Subwoofer is designed to partner the speakers.
Pricing and Availability:
The Ruark M1 Mk3 speakers are available in the U.K. now and priced at £399 per pair.
Tech Specs:
- Woofers: Ruark NS+ 85mm long throw woofer with treated natural fibre cone.
- Tweeters: Ruark 20mm silk dome.
- Amplification: Class D.
- Frequency range: 50Hz – 22kHz.
- Inputs: USB Audio, Bluetooth AptX HD, MM Phono stage, combined aux and optical.
- Outputs: Subwoofer via mono RCA connector.
- Finishes: Rich Walnut or Charcoal Lacquer.
- Dimensions (H x W x D): 185 x 135 x 155mm.
- Weight 2.2kg each.