Ruark’s R1 Radio Gets a Mk4 Makeover
Ruark revamps, reinvigorates and rejuvenates its R1 radio.
Ruark's R1 radio was launched back in 2006 with the bold claim that radio had never looked or sounded as good. Things change, and 14 years is a long time in the audio world, but the family-owned British company has announced an up-to-date Ruark R1 Mk4.
Firstly, the fourth-generation R1 has ditched the wood cabinet in favour of a gently profiled moulded number which instantly adds a contemporary, yet classy, aesthetic. Additionally, as a nod to the previous three generations, a hand-crafted slatted wood grille adorns the front along with a super-clear OLED screen. Also, the screen automatically adjusts to suit the ambient light levels, handy if the R1 is to live by your bedside.
The new enclosure is acoustically treated, making it both strong and acoustically inert, says Ruark. The company says that the new design provides an ideal housing for the electronics and NS+ driver.
The R1 Mk4's linear amplifier, along with the NS+ driver and adaptive equalisation, promises excellent sound from the peerless digital and analogue reception at all volume levels. Furthermore, FM parameters can be set to suit US and Japanese needs.
On the subject of the R1 Mk4's international credentials, this latest generation supports most Western and Eastern languages. It also has a built-in RTC (real-time clock), meaning that time and date are kept live when power is disconnected or when transmitted data is not available.
Other highlights include a quality Bluetooth receiver, USB-C charge and playback port, switchable auxiliary input and headphone output.
Rounding things off, quite literally, is Ruark's trademark RotoDial control system which will make the R1 easy to use. For those seeking distant operation, there is a compact remote control available as an optional extra.
The Ruark R1 Mk4 will be available from December and is available in light cream lacquer with an ash grille, and espresso lacquer with a walnut grille, both priced at AUD $475 RRP.
Visit Ruark for more information
Jay Garrett
StereoNET’s resident rock star, bass player, and gadget junkie. His passion for gadgets and Hi-Fi is second only to being a touring musician.
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