An Acclaimed British Hi-Fi Company Just Upgraded Its Affordable Desktop Speakers

The British hi-fi manufacturer, Ruark Audio, specializes in wireless speaker systems and compact radios that have old-school appeal but are jam-packed with modern conveniences.

Recently, the company has released several higher-end hi-fi setups, including its 100 Series System, which consists of the 610 streaming amp ($1,599) and Sabre-R bookshelf speakers ($899). However, it’s now targeting something a bit more affordable.

For the first time in nearly eight years, Ruark has finally updated its affordable desktop speaker system.

Ruark MR1 Mk3 Desktop Speaker System

Ruark Audio

Third-gen desktop speakers

The Ruark MR1 Mk3 is the smallest and most affordable powered stereo speaker system that the company makes. It consists of one primary powered speaker, which houses everything from the amplification to the wired and wireless connections, and a secondary passive speaker.

On the surface, Ruark’s new MR1 Mk3 system looks and works quite similar to its predecessor, the 2017-released MR1 Mk2, as well as the original MR1 Mk1 from 2013. However, the third-generation speaker set has been updated with modern technologies, as well as enhanced drivers and amplification, to produce better sound.

Ruark Audio

Ruark’s MR1 Mk3 is probably best used as desktop speakers. The new models have been upgraded with a USB-C input, so you can easily hook them up to your computer. This new port also supports hi-res audio playback. (Note: there’s also a traditional 3.5mm input, too.)

That said, like its predecessors, the MR1 Mk3 is super versatile and can be used in various other ways. They support Bluetooth (now with support for aptX HD and low-latency audio), so you can stream audio right from your smartphone.

Ruark Audio

According to the brand, the enhanced Bluetooth technology enables the MR1 Mk3 to function as TV speakers as well. That said, it’s probably not their best use case — there’s no HDMI input and thus they’re not going to be as “plug-and-play” or support the same immersive sound technologies as today’s active speakers or soundbars.

You can also use the MR1 Mk3 as turntable speakers. They have a dedicated turntable input and a built-in phono preamp (supporting moving magnet cartridges), making a hookup a breeze.

Ruark Audio

Inside, Ruark has essentially gutted the MR1 Mk3 to drastically improve their sound. They feature larger drivers — each speaker still has a two-way design, but now has a 20mm silk dome tweeter and a 85mm mid/bass driver — and improved amplification.

In fact, Ruark says that it has adapted the Class D technology used in its R410, a beautiful all-in-one speaker that costs $1,999, which promises to provide more power and control. They also overhauled the crossover network and fine-tuned the bass reflex system.

The result? The brand says that the MR1 Mk3 “delivers deeper, more controlled bass, a lucid midrange, and exceptional detail from Ruark’s custom 20mm silk dome tweeters.”

Ruark Audio

Price and availability

Just like their predecessors, the MR1 Mk3 speakers feature handcrafted wooden cabinets — you have the option of Rich Walnut or Charcoal Lacquer finishes — and slate grey fabric grills.

The Ruark MR1 Mk3 desktop speaker system is priced at $579 and is available now on the company’s website.

Ruark Audio

Ruark MR1 Mk3 Desktop Speaker System

Specs

Speakers	Two-way powered speaker set
Drivers	20mm silk dome tweeter, 85mm natural fibre cone bass/mid driver
Frequency range	50Hz – 22kHz

• $579 at Ruark Audio

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