Ruark Audio is devoted to the pairing of vintage design and contemporary technologies. Its various speaker models boast a retro character that’s ill-matched by the genre’s other proprietors, and after releasing the slimmer, low-profile R5 in 2019, the brand is finally back with the (visually) improved R3 compact music system.
While the Ruark R3 and R5 look strikingly similar in terms of their overall design, the R3 takes on a suite of subtle changes that might not be immediately apparent to those who aren’t familiar with the brand’s other models. For starters, the R3 has deviated from the R5’s original foot/stand design for a more angular “prong,” allowing it to sit at an angle for improved projection. At its heart, the 30-watt system features a bevy of genre-leading audio components, including a Class A-B amplifier system, Ruark neodymium NS+ drivers, and aptX Bluetooth for premium streaming. Dive a bit deeper to find its incorporated FM/DAB/DAB+ radio capabilities, built-in alarm, and cleanly-presented OLED display — all of which are housed within a handsome walnut veneer. Head to Ruark’s website to pick up your own for $810.
