{"product_id":"ruark-mr1-mk3-desktop-speaker-system","title":"Ruark MR1 MK3 Desktop Speaker System","description":"\u003ch1 class=\"text-text-100 mt-3 -mb-1 text-[1.375rem] font-bold\"\u003eRuark MR1 Mk3 Desktop Speaker System\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"text-text-100 mt-3 -mb-1 text-[1.375rem] font-bold\"\u003ePowered Stereo Speakers with Phono, USB-C \u0026amp; Bluetooth aptX HD\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Ruark MR1 Mk3 is a pair of powered desktop stereo speakers combining Bluetooth aptX HD, USB-C audio, optical, analogue, and a built-in moving magnet phono stage in a compact hand-crafted cabinet.\u003c\/strong\u003e Powered by 50W of Class D amplification adapted from Ruark's flagship R410, with custom 85mm NS+ long-throw woofers and 20mm silk dome tweeters, the MR1 Mk3 are the \u003cem\u003eWhat Hi-Fi?\u003c\/em\u003e Awards 2025 winning desktop speakers — the long-awaited successor to a model that took home the Best Desktop Speaker award seven years running.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"border-border-200 border-t-0.5 my-3 mx-1.5\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"text-text-100 mt-3 -mb-1 text-[1.125rem] font-bold\"\u003eWhy the Ruark MR1 Mk3 are the desktop speakers to beat\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThe MR1 Mk2 were the speakers \u003cem\u003eWhat Hi-Fi?\u003c\/em\u003e couldn't stop giving awards to — seven consecutive Best Desktop Speaker wins, a five-star review, and a near-cult following among people who care what their desk sounds like. So when Ruark finally released the Mk3 after eight years, they had a job on their hands.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThe verdict? \u003cem\u003eWhat Hi-Fi?\u003c\/em\u003e gave the Mk3 the \u003cstrong\u003e2025 Best Desktop Speaker award\u003c\/strong\u003e and called them a \"powerful upgrade\" — bigger drivers, more power, a proper built-in phono stage for turntables, and a USB-C input for direct laptop connection. Everything that made the Mk2 a legend, plus everything reviewers spent eight years asking for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThese aren't smart speakers. They aren't lifestyle Bluetooth speakers. They're a proper powered stereo pair, built to make whatever's on your desk — laptop, turntable, TV, games console, phone — sound like it cost a lot more than it did.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"border-border-200 border-t-0.5 my-3 mx-1.5\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"text-text-100 mt-3 -mb-1 text-[1.125rem] font-bold\"\u003eWhat you get\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"[li_\u0026amp;]:mb-0 [li_\u0026amp;]:mt-1 [li_\u0026amp;]:gap-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-1 pl-8 mb-3\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e2 × 25W Class D amplification\u003c\/strong\u003e (50W total) — adapted from the amplifier tech in Ruark's award-winning \u003cstrong\u003eR410\u003c\/strong\u003e flagship, for a significant jump in power and control over the Mk2.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCustom 85mm Ruark NS+ long-throw bass\/mid drivers\u003c\/strong\u003e with treated natural fibre cones — bigger than the Mk2's drivers, in subtly enlarged 2.0-litre cabinets tuned for deeper, more controlled bass.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e20mm silk dome tweeters\u003c\/strong\u003e with the same lineage as the tweeters used in the R410 — for the kind of high-frequency detail that makes cymbals and strings sit properly in the mix.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBluetooth 5.1 with aptX HD, AAC, and SBC\u003c\/strong\u003e — high-resolution wireless from phones, laptops, and tablets without the lag or codec compromises.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUSB-C audio input\u003c\/strong\u003e up to 24-bit \/ 96kHz — plug straight into a MacBook, iPad, Windows laptop, or smartphone for bit-perfect playback. (This is the input Mk2 owners spent years asking for.)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBuilt-in moving magnet phono stage\u003c\/strong\u003e with adjustable gain (2–7mV) — connect a turntable directly, no external phono preamp required. Pairs perfectly with most modern decks (Rega, Pro-Ject, Audio-Technica, etc.).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCombined 3.5mm analogue \/ optical Toslink input\u003c\/strong\u003e supporting up to 24-bit \/ 192kHz PCM — perfect for TVs, games consoles, and CD players.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSubwoofer output\u003c\/strong\u003e (mono RCA) for pairing with Ruark's own \u003cstrong\u003eRS1 Subwoofer\u003c\/strong\u003e or any active subwoofer when you want full-range performance.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e24-bit \/ 192kHz onboard DAC\u003c\/strong\u003e so digital sources are handled with audiophile-grade conversion.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdjustable input levels\u003c\/strong\u003e (line, phono, USB, optical) for matching the volume of mixed sources, plus \u003cstrong\u003eadaptive EQ\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003esoft-clip overload protection\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAuto standby and wake-up\u003c\/strong\u003e for low-power efficiency.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCompact IR remote\u003c\/strong\u003e included, plus a top-mounted control dial on the master speaker.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e3-metre high-purity speaker cable\u003c\/strong\u003e included for connecting the master to the passive speaker.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"border-border-200 border-t-0.5 my-3 mx-1.5\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"text-text-100 mt-3 -mb-1 text-[1.125rem] font-bold\"\u003eSound: small box, serious imaging\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThe MR1 Mk3 isn't trying to sound like a Bluetooth lifestyle speaker. It's trying to sound like a proper pair of bookshelf speakers — and largely succeeding. The 2.0-litre dual-flared bass-reflex cabinets, tuned to 68Hz, extract a quoted in-room response of \u003cstrong\u003e48Hz–22kHz\u003c\/strong\u003e: real low-end body for the size, an open and articulate midrange, and detailed treble that resolves the things smaller drivers usually smear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eBecause they're a true stereo pair with proper left-right separation, you get \u003cstrong\u003egenuine stereo imaging\u003c\/strong\u003e — a soundstage that locks vocals between the speakers and lets instruments spread to either side. That's something single-cabinet \"stereo\" speakers in this price bracket simply can't do.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThe Class D amplification (a deliberate departure from the Class A\/B used in the Mk2, taking technology from Ruark's flagship R410) delivers more power, more control, and more headroom for louder, more dynamic listening without the speakers running out of breath.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eIf you want more bass, plug in the \u003cstrong\u003eRuark RS1 subwoofer\u003c\/strong\u003e via the dedicated sub output and you've got a properly grown-up 2.1 desktop system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"border-border-200 border-t-0.5 my-3 mx-1.5\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"text-text-100 mt-3 -mb-1 text-[1.125rem] font-bold\"\u003eDesign: handcrafted, bevelled, and built to be seen\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eThe MR1 Mk3 keeps the unmistakable Ruark silhouette — compact, hand-veneered cabinets with bevelled front edges, a dark slate woven fabric grille, and a top-mounted rotary control dial on the master speaker. Compared to the Mk2, the walnut veneer is now a seamless wrap around the cabinet (no breaks in the grain), and the proportions have grown just enough to accommodate the bigger drivers without losing the compact footprint that fits cleanly either side of a laptop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eTwo finishes:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"[li_\u0026amp;]:mb-0 [li_\u0026amp;]:mt-1 [li_\u0026amp;]:gap-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-1 pl-8 mb-3\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRich Walnut\u003c\/strong\u003e cabinet with Dark Slate fabric grille\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCharcoal Lacquer\u003c\/strong\u003e cabinet with Dark Slate fabric grille\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eAt \u003cstrong\u003e185 × 135 × 160mm\u003c\/strong\u003e (H × W × D) per speaker, they're properly desktop-friendly — much smaller than most powered competitors and finished to a standard that earns its place on a serious workstation, hi-fi rack, or bookshelf.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"border-border-200 border-t-0.5 my-3 mx-1.5\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"text-text-100 mt-3 -mb-1 text-[1.125rem] font-bold\"\u003eConnectivity at a glance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto w-full px-2 mb-6\"\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"min-w-full border-collapse text-sm leading-[1.7] whitespace-normal\"\u003e\n\u003cthead class=\"text-left\"\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"col\" class=\"text-text-100 border-b-0.5 border-border-300\/60 py-2 pr-4 align-top font-bold\"\u003eWireless\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"col\" class=\"text-text-100 border-b-0.5 border-border-300\/60 py-2 pr-4 align-top font-bold\"\u003eWired\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"border-b-0.5 border-border-300\/30 py-2 pr-4 align-top\"\u003eBluetooth 5.1 (aptX HD, AAC, SBC)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"border-b-0.5 border-border-300\/30 py-2 pr-4 align-top\"\u003eUSB-C audio (up to 24-bit \/ 96kHz)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"border-b-0.5 border-border-300\/30 py-2 pr-4 align-top\"\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"border-b-0.5 border-border-300\/30 py-2 pr-4 align-top\"\u003eMM phono input (RCA, adjustable gain)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"border-b-0.5 border-border-300\/30 py-2 pr-4 align-top\"\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"border-b-0.5 border-border-300\/30 py-2 pr-4 align-top\"\u003eCombined 3.5mm analogue \/ optical Toslink\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"border-b-0.5 border-border-300\/30 py-2 pr-4 align-top\"\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"border-b-0.5 border-border-300\/30 py-2 pr-4 align-top\"\u003eSubwoofer pre-out (mono RCA)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"border-b-0.5 border-border-300\/30 py-2 pr-4 align-top\"\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"border-b-0.5 border-border-300\/30 py-2 pr-4 align-top\"\u003eSpeaker output (3m high-purity cable included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"border-border-200 border-t-0.5 my-3 mx-1.5\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"text-text-100 mt-3 -mb-1 text-[1.125rem] font-bold\"\u003eSpecs\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"[li_\u0026amp;]:mb-0 [li_\u0026amp;]:mt-1 [li_\u0026amp;]:gap-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-1 pl-8 mb-3\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAmplifier:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2 × 25W nominal Class D (50W total)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDrivers:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2 × 85mm Ruark NS+ long-throw bass\/mid (natural fibre cones), 2 × 20mm silk dome tweeters\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFrequency response (typical, in-room):\u003c\/strong\u003e 48Hz–22kHz\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCabinet:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dual-flared tuned bass-reflex, 2.0 litres\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTuning frequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e 68Hz\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCrossover frequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2.5kHz\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDAC:\u003c\/strong\u003e 24-bit \/ 192kHz\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBluetooth:\u003c\/strong\u003e Version 5.1 (aptX HD, AAC, SBC)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUSB-C audio:\u003c\/strong\u003e Up to 24-bit \/ 96kHz, UAC 1.0\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOptical:\u003c\/strong\u003e Up to 24-bit \/ 96kHz PCM\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePhono stage:\u003c\/strong\u003e Moving magnet with adjustable gain (2–7mV)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEnhancements:\u003c\/strong\u003e Adaptive EQ, soft-clip overload protection, adjustable input levels\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRemote:\u003c\/strong\u003e Compact IR remote included\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 185 × 135 × 160mm per speaker (H × W × D)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAwards:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003eWhat Hi-Fi?\u003c\/em\u003e Awards 2025 — Best Desktop Speaker\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWarranty:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2 years standard, extended to 3 years with online registration\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"border-border-200 border-t-0.5 my-3 mx-1.5\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"text-text-100 mt-3 -mb-1 text-[1.125rem] font-bold\"\u003eWho the MR1 Mk3 is for\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"[li_\u0026amp;]:mb-0 [li_\u0026amp;]:mt-1 [li_\u0026amp;]:gap-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [\u0026amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-1 pl-8 mb-3\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDesktop hi-fi listeners\u003c\/strong\u003e who want serious stereo sound either side of their laptop or monitor.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCompact turntable systems\u003c\/strong\u003e — plug a Rega Planar, Pro-Ject Debut, or Audio-Technica deck straight into the built-in phono stage and you've got a complete vinyl rig.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTV and gaming setups\u003c\/strong\u003e in bedrooms, studies, or small living rooms — the optical input handles TV audio cleanly and the bass has proper weight.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStudio and creative workspaces\u003c\/strong\u003e where accurate stereo imaging matters more than thump.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAnyone replacing a soundbar, sound base, or single-cabinet Bluetooth speaker\u003c\/strong\u003e with something that actually sounds like hi-fi.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003eAdd the \u003cstrong\u003eRuark RS1 subwoofer\u003c\/strong\u003e when you want full-range performance, or build a complete music system around them with the \u003cstrong\u003eR-CD100 CD player\u003c\/strong\u003e via the optical input.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr class=\"border-border-200 border-t-0.5 my-3 mx-1.5\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"text-text-100 mt-3 -mb-1 text-[1.125rem] font-bold\"\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDo the Ruark MR1 Mk3 have Wi-Fi or streaming services?\u003c\/strong\u003e No — the MR1 Mk3 are powered Bluetooth desktop speakers, not a streaming music system. They connect to phones, laptops, and tablets via Bluetooth aptX HD or USB-C. If you want built-in Spotify, AirPlay, or internet radio, look at the \u003cstrong\u003eRuark R2\u003c\/strong\u003e (compact streaming radio with stereo sound), the \u003cstrong\u003eR3S\u003c\/strong\u003e (compact all-in-one with CD), or the \u003cstrong\u003eR410\u003c\/strong\u003e flagship all-in-one.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I connect a turntable directly to the MR1 Mk3?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — the MR1 Mk3 has a built-in moving magnet (MM) phono stage with adjustable gain (2–7mV). Most modern turntables plug straight in via the RCA phono input. No external phono preamp required.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I connect the MR1 Mk3 to my laptop via USB?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — the USB-C input handles audio up to 24-bit \/ 96kHz and works plug-and-play with macOS, Windows, iOS, and most Android devices. No drivers required.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I use the MR1 Mk3 as TV speakers?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — the combined 3.5mm analogue \/ optical Toslink input handles TV audio cleanly. For full home cinema use, pair with the \u003cstrong\u003eRuark RS1 subwoofer\u003c\/strong\u003e via the dedicated sub output for proper low-end impact.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat's the difference between the MR1 Mk2 and the MR1 Mk3?\u003c\/strong\u003e The Mk3 is the long-awaited successor to a model that won \u003cem\u003eWhat Hi-Fi?\u003c\/em\u003e Best Desktop Speaker seven years running. Key changes: bigger 85mm bass\/mid drivers in a subtly enlarged cabinet, Class D amplification (adapted from the R410) replacing the Mk2's Class A\/B, a new built-in phono stage for turntables, a new USB-C input, upgraded Bluetooth with aptX HD, and a refined cabinet design with seamless walnut wrap and bevelled edges.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy did Ruark switch from Class A\/B to Class D for the Mk3?\u003c\/strong\u003e Class D was adopted from Ruark's flagship R410 specifically because it offers \"a substantial increase in power output and control\" — the MR1 Mk3 now plays louder, cleaner, and with more headroom than the Mk2. (Ruark still uses Class A\/B in its R-series tabletop radios and the flagship R810 Radiogram.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I add a subwoofer to the MR1 Mk3?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — there's a dedicated mono RCA subwoofer output on the rear, designed to pair with the \u003cstrong\u003eRuark RS1 subwoofer\u003c\/strong\u003e (voiced to match the MR1 acoustically) or any quality active subwoofer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDo the MR1 Mk3 support hi-res audio?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — the onboard DAC handles up to 24-bit \/ 192kHz, USB-C accepts up to 24-bit \/ 96kHz, optical accepts up to 24-bit \/ 96kHz, and Bluetooth supports the high-quality aptX HD codec for hi-res wireless.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDo the MR1 Mk3 come with a remote?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — a compact IR remote is included for source switching, volume, and standby. The master speaker also has a top-mounted control dial.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAre the MR1 Mk3 a stereo pair or a single speaker?\u003c\/strong\u003e A true powered stereo pair. The master speaker contains all the electronics (amplification, DAC, inputs); the passive speaker connects via the included 3-metre high-purity speaker cable. Position them properly (roughly equilateral triangle with your listening position) and you get genuine stereo imaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHave the MR1 Mk3 won any awards?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — the Ruark MR1 Mk3 won the \u003cem\u003eWhat Hi-Fi?\u003c\/em\u003e Awards 2025 in the Desktop Speaker category, following the MR1 Mk2's seven consecutive wins in the same category.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat finishes do the MR1 Mk3 come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e Rich Walnut with Dark Slate fabric grille, and Charcoal Lacquer with Dark Slate fabric grille.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal leading-[1.7]\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat's in the box?\u003c\/strong\u003e The master MR1 Mk3 speaker (with electronics), the passive MR1 Mk3 speaker, 3-metre high-purity speaker cable, compact IR remote, power adapter, and quick-start guide.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ruark Audio","offers":[{"title":"Charcoal","offer_id":45622613770417,"sku":"MR1C-CHR","price":799.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Walnut Wood Veneer","offer_id":45622613803185,"sku":"MR1C-WAL","price":799.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0245\/7723\/files\/Ruark-MR1-MK3-Charcoal-angle.jpg?v=1748903203","url":"https:\/\/audionation.ca\/products\/ruark-mr1-mk3-desktop-speaker-system","provider":"Audionation","version":"1.0","type":"link"}