In-Store Event – NEW REL Acoustics Reference Series
October 29, 2026
The old saying that “good things come in small packages” is undoubtedly true of the Ruark MR1 Mk3 desktop speaker system. Measuring a compact H202 × W135 × D165mm, it’s fair to wonder just how much performance could possibly be squeezed into something so small. As it turns out, quite a lot.
The images shown here are of Simon’s own pair, which now handle TV duties following the retirement of his trusty Focal XS Book 2.0 active speakers after an impressive 11 years of sterling service. Filling those shoes was never going to be easy, but the little Ruarks have risen admirably to the challenge.
Like a hi-fi Swiss Army knife, the MR1 Mk3 packs an impressive array of connections into its compact cabinet. Around the back of the right-hand speaker you’ll find a 3.5mm optical input, USB-C input, and an RCA input that can be switched into phono mode at the touch of a button, allowing direct connection of a turntable. There’s also a dedicated subwoofer output and a 3.5mm output for connecting the left speaker using the supplied 3m cable. Add Bluetooth connectivity into the mix and these pint-sized performers become remarkably versatile companions for music, TV and more.
Housed within each cabinet’s modest two-litre internal volume is some seriously clever engineering. The right-hand speaker contains the onboard Class D amplification, while both speakers feature a 20mm tweeter and an 85mm mid/bass driver. On top sits a beautifully simple multifunction control wheel for power, volume and source selection, while the supplied infrared remote offers the same functionality from the comfort of your favourite chair.
Of course, there are limits to the amount of room filling bass a speaker slightly larger than a bag of Tate & Lyle sugar can produce on its own. Once Simon was happy with positioning and isolation from the furniture, he spent around 40 minutes carefully integrating his REL T/7x subwoofer using the low-level output from the Ruark’s. The results were deeply satisfying. The blend between speaker and subwoofer was so seamless that what was intended as a quick test session turned into an evening of musical exploration, interrupted only a mere three times by requests to lower the volume.
In truth, we believe almost every household in the UK could accommodate a pair of MR1s. In the recent couple of years, we’ve supplied and installed them in kitchens, bedrooms, lounges and home offices, where they consistently punch well above their weight. They’re also ideal for those who spend time away from home, as the compact dimensions make them easy to transport and set up in a hotel room for a far more enjoyable listening experience than any tablet of mobile phone speaker can provide.
Whether you’re a teenager buying your very first hi-fi system, a budget-conscious parent seeking an affordable music solution, or a professional wanting quality sound in a home office, the Ruark MR1 Mk3 deserves a place near the top of your shortlist. With careful positioning, they will outperform soundbars delivering a sound stage with greater width, clarity, and improved imaging resulting in overall better enjoyment for the whole family.
Ruark MR1 Mk3 – Price £399.00 per pair.
To add further completeness to the Ruark Desktop Music System, you can add the new Rega Replay turntable for an additional £259 taking the total cost to just £658.
If you would like to learn more about the baby Ruark’s, they are available for demonstration at our showroom.
