Since our humble beginnings in 1985, it's incredible to reflect on how swiftly the years have passed. Here's a brief look at the key products and milestones that have shaped our journey. Just as we were at the start, we're still driven by the same passion and excitement for what the future holds.
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1985
Ruark Acoustics formed
Using their savings, Brian and Alan O’Rourke (father and son) rent a small industrial unit in Rayleigh, Essex, as a workshop to start developing their first loudspeaker systems. Many hours are spent tuning and evolving the sound for which Ruark would become highly regarded.
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1986
Sabre and Broadsword
After 14 months of development, Alan and Brian launch their first loudspeaker systems called Sabre and Broadsword. With beautiful cabinetwork and advance drive unit technology, these systems are soon noticed by the hi-fi press and receive critical acclaim.
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1987
Accolade (worth the odd sacrifice)
Buoyed by the success of their Sabre and Broadsword models, Alan and Brian unveil their first flagship floor-standing speaker: the Accolade. Priced at over £2,500 and met with rave reviews, it firmly establishes Ruark as a serious contender in the high-end loudspeaker market.
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1988
Neil Adams joins Ruark
With sales growing, Brian and Alan bring in Neil Adams (Brian’s son-in-law) to help oversee production. Neil’s managerial experience in retail, proves invaluable in making purchasing and production run smoothly.
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1989
Ruark Swordsman
In response to demand for an ‘entry-level’ model, Brian and Alan develop Swordsman. This model is well received and becomes a popular choice with customers building their first real hi-fi system.
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1990
Ruark Talisman
Employing (at the time) a unique sloped baffle construction, many audio enthusiasts will say that this is the model that helped defined Ruark. Its versatile nature meant that it worked well with many different amplifiers and a remarkably life-like sound was produced from its compact form.
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1990
Ruark Crusader
Following the outstanding reception of the Talisman, the Crusader was launched in late 1990. Designed for customers seeking a larger-scale sound and featuring a distinctive domed mid-range unit, its vocal realism was widely praised as truly uncanny.
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1991
Computer simulation comes to Ruark
In the early 1990s, Alan began incorporating computer technology into the development process. This innovation enabled analysis of drive units, cabinet design, and network topology before prototypes were built, however, final tuning was always done by ear. Both Brian and Alan firmly believed that the human ear is the ultimate development tool, a philosophy that continues to shape every product Ruark creates to this day.
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1992
Ruark Templar
As demand for floorstanding speakers grew, Templar was introduced as an entry-level model. Despite its compact size, its performance was exceptional, earning glowing five-star reviews and an in-depth feature from the highly respected Stereophile magazine in the USA. The Templar quickly became one of our top-selling models.
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1993
Talisman II and Crusader II
Improving on the original Talisman and Crusader models was a difficult task, however, with new drive unit technology and cabinets with sculpted curves to give them the Ruark family look, the Mk2 versions of these speakers proved to be even more popular, with sales rising world-wide.
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1994
Ruark Equinox
As a musician, Alan was eager to develop a studio-style monitor capable of delivering exceptional musical detail and lifelike dynamics. The result was Equinox - featuring high-specification drive units, an ultra-dense, low-colouration cabinet, and dedicated stands with outboard crossovers. It was an instant success, and when paired with top-tier electronics, delivered truly jaw-dropping sound quality.
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1996
Ruark move to new factory
After 10 years and now operating from several units, the team at Ruark decide that it time to move to bring everything under one roof. With the future looking good, they purchase a unit with room to expand on a modern industrial site in Southend-on-Sea. Ruark still operate from these premises today but additional units have now also been acquired, due to ongoing growth.
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1996
Ruark Icon and Sceptre launched
To mark their factory move, Ruark introduce the Icon and Sceptre as successors to the ageing Sabre and Swordsman models. With an inverted drive unit configuration, these speakers stood out as truly unique and with their beautifully crafted cabinets, they were widely regarded as two of the most visually striking bookshelf speakers available.
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1997
Dialogue One Centre Channel
In 1997 interest in Home Cinema is growing with Dolby Pro-Logic VCRs and multi-channel amplifiers selling alongside traditional stereo components. Responding to this Ruark launch their first centre channel speaker called Dialogue One. This is well received and is awarded a coveted ‘Best Buy’ by Home Cinema Choice magazine.
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1998
Prologue One, Prelude, Epilogue and Log-Rhythm
With the rise of DVD and flat-panel TVs in the late '90s, home theatre begins to gain real momentum. In response, we develop the Contemporary Series - a versatile range of speakers designed to be mixed and matched to create stunning home theatre systems. Produced over several years, the series earned widespread acclaim and, in 2002, received a coveted ‘Best Buy’ award from What Hi-Fi?
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1999
Vita 100 System
As home theatre systems become a must-have in many households, it quickly becomes clear that while customers love the concept, few have the space for traditional speakers. Recognising this need, Ruark introduce the Vita 100 system - featuring five beautifully crafted satellite speakers paired with a powerful subwoofer. Delivering remarkable sound from a small footprint, the system was an instant hit.
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2000
Brian O’Rourke retires
At the age of 70, Brian O’Rourke decides that it is time for him to step down as Managing Director. Taking up the position is his son, Alan and Neil Adams (his son-in-law) becomes Operations Director. As always Brian keeps an active interest in the business he helped create until his untimely passing in 2002.
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2000
The mighty Excalibur
It had always been a desire of Alan’s to create a speaker without compromise. A flagship speaker that was able to recreate the full scale sound of an orchestra or band without compression or distortion. Excalibur became regarded by audiophiles as one of the most remarkable speakers available and during production, over 500 pairs were sold worldwide.
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2001
Solstice rounds off Reference series
Such was the enthusiasm for Excalibur that customers soon began asking for a smaller alternative, better suited to smaller rooms. The result was Solstice - a beautifully crafted speaker, aimed squarely at those who take their audio seriously. When paired with equally high-quality electronics, Solstice delivered class-leading sound that truly impressed.
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2003
CL series
By 2003, it is becoming clear that the audio landscape is shifting, with growing emphasis on visual technology over sound. In response, we develop a range of speakers with designs that are boldly different from our traditional aesthetic. Customer reaction was mixed, but as always, the sound quality was highly praised, and even today, these speakers continue to stand out for their distinctive and fresh appearance.
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2004
A new direction
With traditional hi-fi in decline, Alan thinks it is time to explore a new direction. At the time, the BBC was heavily promoting DAB, and as an avid radio listener, Alan was eager to experience this new technology firsthand, however, it quickly became clear that while sound quality was paramount in hi-fi, many radios offered disappointing audio performance! Spotting a gap in the market, a decision is made to develop a high-quality DAB digital radio, bringing true hi-fi sound to radio listening.
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2005
New Heritage series
With sales of CL Series not meeting expectations a decision is made to renew and revive our Heritage models, namely Sabre, Talisman and Crusader. In Mk3 guise, these models keep the identity of the originals, but subtle styling changes and modern drive unit technology bring them bang up to date. All models are well-reviewed but sales are still slower than estimated due to a changing marketplace.
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2006
R1 launched
In November 2006, we launched our first R1 tabletop radio to critical acclaim, with The Sunday Telegraph memorably calling it ‘The Aston Martin of DAB radios’. During development, we chose to market the radio under the brand name Vita Audio, however, this decision led to confusion among customers and dealers. To strengthen brand recognition and clarity, all products have carried the Ruark name - our company name - since 2012.
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2007
R2 launched
Lifted by the success of R1 the stereo R2 is launched. With its beautiful design and class-leading sound quality, the R2 proves to be a hit with customers who love its aesthetics and quality construction.
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2007
R2 wins What Hi-Fi Product of the Year
Having already received numerous accolades, we are delighted when R2 is chosen as radio ‘Product of the Year’ by What Hi-Fi? at their annual November awards ceremony. This award adds gravitas to our aim, to build a reputation for designing the very best radios and small audio products.
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2008
R4 launched
In 2008, we launched our most ambitious product to date: the R4. Building on the design language introduced with our R1 and R2 models, our goal was to create an all-in-one stereo system with broad appeal. That vision proved spot-on with R4 proving an instant success, further strengthening our reputation for innovation and exceptional sound.
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2009
R2i launched
In 2009, the Apple iPod is the must have music player and in response we introduce a new version of our R2 with an integrated iPod dock and other technical enhancements. Called R2i this product gathers many accolades and proves popular with iPod owners wanting a high-quality playback system.
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2009
R2i wins What Hi-Fi? Best Buy
After all the praise for our original R2, we are delighted to be presented with a coveted Best Buy award from What Hi-Fi? for our new R2i as best desktop DAB/iPod dock. This is the start of a flurry of great reviews for this model.
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2010
R1 Mk2 launched
When launched in 2006, the Sunday Telegraph described our original R1 as ‘the Aston Martin of DAB radios’. With the introduction of our R1 Mk2, we create a successor which is even more desirable. With R1 Mk2 we also introduced an optional battery pack and carrycase (BackPack and CarryPack) making this model portable if required.
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2010
What Hi-Fi? Awards for R1 Mk2 and R2i
In the Consumer Electronics trade, What Hi-Fi? Awards are highly prized, so we are indeed honoured, when again What Hi-Fi? present us with two more ‘Best Buy’ awards for our new R1 Mk2 and R2i at their annual ceremony, held at the Dorchester Hotel, London.
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2011
Limited edition ‘Selfridges Yellow’ R1 released
With their attractive design, many people describe our products as design icons of the future, so when the opportunity arose to produce a limited edition of our R1 for London’s iconic Selfridges department store, in their eye-catching yellow, we of course, did not hesitate.
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2011
Limited edition Sparkling Graphite R4i
First released in 2008, our R4 has by now become recognised as one of the finest all-in-one systems available. In June 2011 we introduce an updated version with technical enhancements called R4i. To celebrate the introduction of this model we also announce a special 1,000 run limited edition in Sparkling Graphite.
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2011
Another What Hi-Fi? win for R1 and R4i
The introduction of our R4i gathers yet more acclaim and is this year noticed by the team at What Hi-Fi? who award it ‘Best All-in-One Music System’ and R1 Mk2 ‘Best DAB/FM Radio’! A fantastic finish to a fantastic year.
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2012
Vita Audio to Ruark Audio ‘a new era’
In just six years, our ‘small audio’ range has exceeded all expectations. Initially branded as Vita to distinguish it from our loudspeakers, we now feel the time is right to unify our products under one name. With pride in our heritage, we bring everything together under the Ruark brand, where craftsmanship and passion have always been at the heart of what we do.
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2012
Nordoff Robbins Orange R1
Our passion is music, so we are delighted to announce an alliance with the inspirational music charity Nordoff Robbins. Marking the start of the collaboration, a new version of our R1 Mk2 finished in a luscious high gloss orange lacquer is released, with money from each unit sold being donated to this highly worthy cause.
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2013
LAS (Lightning Adaptor Support)
The introduction of Apple’s new ‘Lightning’ connector causes alarm amongst customers concerned about compatibility. To address this we developed a simple yet highly effective solution which we codename LAS (Lightning Adaptor Support). The beauty of this simple conversion is that iPod/iPhone models old and new can be easily interchanged.
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2013
MR1 Bluetooth Speakers
Going back to our roots, we use the knowledge from our loudspeaker past to squeeze the best performance from our new active MR1 Bluetooth speakers. The MR1s deliver our renowned sound quality from compact enclosures without wires, thanks to Bluetooth and aptX technology.
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2013
What Hi-Fi? ‘Best Desktop Speaker’ award for MR1
By 2013 our radio products have won multiple awards, but we are particularly delighted when our new MR1s received a prestigious What Hi-Fi? award for Best Desktop Speaker. Praise indeed from this leading hi-fi publication.
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2014
The radiogram redefined
Inspired by 60s contemporary design, the R7 is our latest iconic creation. With stunning looks and amazing audio quality, it’s a revolutionary music centre in the true spirit of the classic radiogram.
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2014
MR1 wins What Hi-Fi? award for second year
The only product we submit for the 2014 Awards are our new MR1 Bluetooth Speakers and we are delighted when again we win the What Hi-Fi? Award for Best Desktop Speaker 2014.
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2014
R7 AV Mount
On its own R7 redefines the classic radiogram, but with the addition of our AV Mount, R7 is transformed into a complete audio/visual solution. Designed exclusively for R7, TVs and associated equipment can be integrated so they seemingly ‘float’ above and below, keeping R7s elegant design intact.
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2014
R1 Mk3
Elegant and beautifully simple, the new R1 is the third generation of our now iconic table radio, which started the Ruark Audio story and marked our transition from manufacturing high-fidelity loudspeakers, to the finest quality compact audio systems.
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2014
R2 Mk3
Whilst looking similar to its predecessors, through painstaking design R2 Mk3 has evolved so virtually everything about it is new. Notably, it incorporates internet and wireless playback technology, that allows customers to access music and broadcasts in a variety of convenient ways.
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2015
Osborne & Little R1 Mk3
In April 2015, we partnered with renowned British design house Osborne & Little to create this limited edition R1. Established in the early 1960s, Osborne & Little has earned international acclaim for their award-winning fabrics and wallpapers and like us, they are celebrated for their innovation and exceptional quality.
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2015
R4 Mk3 launched
Originally released in 2008 the R4 redefined what a quality compact music system should be. Seven years on we launch the Mk3 version to critical acclaim. Visually similar, but enhanced in every respect, the R4 Mk3 is the perfect ‘all-in-one’ music solution for 21st-century living.
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2015
R2 Mk3 awarded best ‘all-in-one’ music system
In October 2015 we attend the annual What Hi-Fi? award ceremony in London and are delighted to be presented a ‘Best Buy’ for our recently launched R2 Mk3. This is the seventh year in a row that we have collected a What Hi-Fi? award, which are undoubtedly the most coveted in our industry.
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2015
The ‘Art of Sound’ at the Saatchi Gallery
In December 2015 we partner with London-based graffiti artist Pure Evil to apply his unique artwork to several of our acclaimed R7 radiograms. The first of these pieces is displayed at the artist’s exhibition, ‘Teenage Kicks’, at the prestigious Saatchi Gallery and the rest are sold exclusively through Harrods, Knightsbridge.
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2016
Swiss Red R1-30
2016 marks a momentous year as we celebrate three decades of sound and design. R1 was our first radio product so we thought it fitting to introduce a special limited edition, finished in an eye catching ‘Swiss Red’ lacquer, with a polished 30th-anniversary plaque machined into the side.
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2016
Titanium R4-30
Also to celebrate our 30th Anniversary we introduce R4-30, a stunning variation on our R4 Mk3 model. With the addition of subtle curves and a special satin titanium finish, R4-30 is a fitting tribute to our 30th year and undoubtedly a collector’s piece of the future.
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2016
R7 Mk2 awarded ‘Home Audio Product of the Year’
In December 2016 Trusted Reviews selects our R7 as their Home Audio Product of the Year. They said “The Ruark R7 Mk2 is a beautiful, wonderful-sounding all-in-one solution, and the fact that you can turn it into a TV stand and pump your TV’s audio through it broadens its appeal enormously. There really isn’t anything else quite like the R7.” ★★★★★
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2017
MR1 Mk2
Since their introduction in 2013, our MR1 Bluetooth Speakers have been widely commended as the finest available. MR1 Mk2 retains all the attributes of the original, but with our ongoing desire for improvement and added features, they now look and perform better than ever.
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2017
Limited edition R1 in Sea Green
This eye catching colour was inspired by the tranquil hues found in our tropical oceans. With a run of just 1,000 pieces, it was highly desirable and sold quickly bringing the warmth and feel of summer days to the long nights of winter.
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2017
R7 Mk3 - the radiogram refined
In 2017 we release an all-new version of our groundbreaking R7 High Fidelity Radiogram. With honed aesthetics, improved analogue circuitry and the latest digital technologies for streaming and multi-room, R7 Mk3 is a system that will satisfy even the most discerning listener and builds further on the success of the original.
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2018
MRx – Smart Wireless Speaker
In early 2018 and we announce the release of our first ‘smart’ wireless loudspeaker. Perfect on its own or with multiple units you can fill a whole home, MRx is designed without compromise and built to last.
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2018
MRx wins Trusted Reviews ‘Home Product of the Year’
Shortly after its launch, MRx is awarded ‘Home Audio Product of the Year’ by the highly respected Trusted Reviews team. They loved its design, sound quality and ease of use.
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2018
R1 – Burnt Saffron and Wild Plum
By now our limited edition colours are becoming increasingly popular, so for 2018 we launch not one, but two special colours. Both finishes capture the aura of Autumn, with a nod to the changing landscapes and the colours one might see on a country walk.
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2018
MR1 wins What Hi-Fi? Best Buy again
For the 5th year running our MR1s are awarded ‘Best Desktop Speaker’ at the annual What Hi-Fi? awards. They said that for their size and cost, there is simply nothing better. We couldn’t agree more.
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2018
John Lewis Summer of Sound
In 2018 we opened the doors to our very own rooftop Sound Studio atop of John Lewis’s flagship Oxford Street store as part of their ‘Summer of Sound’ project. The event was inspired by the capital’s love of music with the rooftop transformed into a mini-festival featuring live gigs, DJ sets and acoustic performances against the awesome backdrop of the London’s skyline.
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2019
Ruark × LINLEY Tempo radio
David Linley (the Queen’s nephew) started designing and making bespoke furniture for private clients in 1982. Today LINLEY is world-renowned for the exquisite products and furniture they produce. When asked if we would work with them to produce an exclusive radio we were honoured and the result was the beautiful Tempo radio, based on our award winning R1.
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2019
R5 High Fidelity Music System
In 2019 we proudly announced the release of the all new R5 High Fidelity Music System. Incorporating the knowledge of our past with our vision of the future, R5 was a pitch perfect ‘all-in-one’ system for music and design enthusiasts alike.
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2020
R3 Wireless Music System
R3 is introduced to replace both our R2 Mk3 and R4 Mk3 models and proves an instant hit. Slightly smaller than R4, but with features carried over from our award-winning R5, R3 is perfect for customers where space is tight but where great sound is required.
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2020
R1 Mk4 – 14 years in the making
In 1986 we launched our first-generation R1 and 14 years later, we are thrilled to announce the launch of our fourth-generation model. Everyone benefits from good design in their lives and like the original, R1 Mk4 is perfectly in-tune with what discerning customers are seeking.
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2020
MR1 wins What Hi-Fi? Best Buy award yet again!
For the 7th consecutive year, our MR1s are bestowed ‘Best Desktop Speaker’ at the 2020 What Hi-Fi? awards. As we’ve always said, good design and quality help create products that are timeless and MR1 is a testament to this fact.
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2020
Ruark × LINLEY Amplis Audio System
Following the success of the Tempo radio, we are pleased to announce a new collaboration with LINLEY based on our R5 Music System. Hand-crafted in the UK, the Amplis System combines exquisite LINLEY cabinetry with our renowned sound, making it a truly wonderful product.
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2021
R1 Beach Hut Blue
With Summer 2021 approaching, this eye-catching limited edition is aptly named ‘Beach Hut Blue’. R1 Beach Hut Blue is a perfect ‘feel good’ addition for any home that will bring memories of summer and great entertainment all year round.
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2021
R1 Mk4 awarded “Most Tactile Tech Design”
Wallpaper* magazine’s annual Smart Space Awards highlights the best new design and technology for the home. They declared our R1 Mk4 “a modern classic”. Absolutely!
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2021
8th What Hi-Fi? award for MR1!
For the 8th consecutive year, our MR1s win ‘Best Desktop Speaker’ at the 2021 What Hi-Fi? awards. They said: “Superb sound and a smart design ensure the MR1s remain the class-leader”. Praise indeed.
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2022
R2 Mk4 Smart Music System
R2 Mk4 brings one of our longest-established models right up to date, while retaining key elements that made our original R2 a popular choice, upon its launch in 2007.
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2022
MR1 remain ‘Best Desktop Speakers’ for 9th consecutive year
Even we can’t believe that our MR1 Mk2 speakers have again won the What Hi-Fi? ‘Best Desktop Speaker’ category, but we accept the award graciously and begin to plan what to do with MR1 Mk3, which has now started development.
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2022
R3S receives Hi-Fi Choice Recommended Award
The effect of the Covid pandemic means that due to component availability we have to cease production of our popular R5 model, but we decide to re-engineer our R3 and call it R3S. In its first critical review, Hi-Fi Choice magazine give it a superb write up and a highly coveted ‘Recommended’ award.
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2023
R1S Supercharged radio
Radio is thriving and the introduction of R1S takes this timeless medium to a new level. With Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, R1S is not just a radio, but more a complete compact musical solution that’s capable enough to provide day long entertainment.
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2023
RS1 Subwoofer
Due to demand from customers seeking a matching subwoofer for our award-winning MR1 speakers, we launch RS1. Alone, MR1’s produce a remarkable sound, but with RS1 the sound expands further, with deep controlled bass you can feel and groove to.
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2023
Double award for R2 Mk4 at the 2023 What Hi-Fi? Awards
We are delighted when our R2 Mk4, wins two trophies at the 2023 What Hi-Fi? awards. First is a ‘Best Buy’ for radios over £200‘ and the second is ‘Product of the Year’ in the overall radio category. A great night, was had by all.
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2023
MR1 – What Hi-Fi Award 2023 (Best Desktop Speakers)
On top of our awards for R2 Mk4, we are astonished when for the 10th year running, our MR1 claims the ‘Best Desktop Speakers’ award. A truly outstanding run in a competitive category.
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2023
R410 Integrated Music System
R410 is the first product in our all new 100 Series. We believe in evolutionary design, but also understand that to flourish, sometimes a leap must be made, and this is exactly what we accomplished. With a stunning 70s inspired vibe, R410 is distinctly a Ruark product, but everything has been honed and enhanced.
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2023
R810 High Fidelity Radiogram
A product designed to be the focal point of any room, our new flagship model is a radical reimagining of our original R7 Radiograms. With stunning sound, seamless connectivity and expert craftsmanship, R810’s precise lines and polished chrome stand echo the cutting-edge technology that lies beneath.
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2024
R1 in Midnight Blue
In January 2024 we release a captivating limited edition of our popular R1 Mk4. Combining elegant sophistication with fine craftsmanship, the Midnight Blue edition represents a refreshed look for an essential piece of Ruark history.
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2024
Limited edition Nordoff and Robbins R1 in Pine Green released
Since 2012 we have been supporting the Nordoff and Robbins music charity and in 2024 we again create a limited edition version of our R1 finished in Pine Green with an embroidered tag marking the collaboration. A donation is made to the charity for each unit sold.
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2024
R610 Music Console
The Stereo Music Centres of the 1970s started the hi-fi revolution and our new R610 Music Console brings this beautiful and simple concept completely up to date, with comprehensive connection and streaming capabilities and an amazing sound, to get people back to the joy of music.
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2024
Sabre-R Bookshelf Speakers
With many customers still enjoying our original Sabre loudspeakers from 1985, the Sabre-Rs are a tempting proposition, but together with R610 they make a formidable combination.
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2024
Fred Perry Limited Edition MR1
We are flattered when we are approached by Fred Perry, one of our country’s most iconic names in fashion asking if we would be interested to partner in a joint venture. The result is an exclusive Fred Perry version of our multi award winning MR1, crafted for fashion conscious music fans.
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2024
R1S ‘Product of the Year’ at the What Hi-Fi? Awards
The What Hi-Fi? Awards are undoubtedly one of the highlights of our calendar year and we are delighted when our R1S is chosen as ‘Product of the Year’ in the radio category. Another highly prized award for our burgeoning trophy cabinet.
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2024
R-CD100 Compact Disc Player
For those who appreciate the value of playing CDs, we launch our R-CD100 CD Player. Simply connect R-CD100 to any of our 100 Series models and it automatically integrates, with CD appearing as an additional source on the display.
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2025
Limited edition R1 in Pistachio Green released
Available exclusively through leading department store John Lewis, this serene new colour reflects the calming spirit of nature, bringing a refreshing update to interiors, perfectly timed for the arrival of spring 2025.
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2025
R1S in Light Cream and Satin Charcoal
Upon its launch in March 2023, R1S was only available in a Mid Grey lacquer finish, but due to rising sales and requests from customers, we release two further finishes, Light Cream and Satin Charcoal.
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2025
MR1 Mk3 Desktop Speaker System
After 12 years since the launch of our first generation MR1 Bluetooth Speakers we are pleased to finally reveal MR1 Mk3. Whilst at first glance similar to its predecessors, almost everything about the MR1 Mk3 is new, bringing even greater performance and versatility to one of our most loved and iconic designs.