The R410, which took three years to develop, is the inaugural model from Ruark’s anticipated 100 Series. While details about the entire series are still under wraps, the R410 promises a harmonious blend of stunning aesthetics and audiophile-grade sound.
Features and Functionality.
Designed with streaming at its core, the R410 doesn’t neglect traditional music enthusiasts. It allows connections to legacy devices such as turntables or CD drives. The system also boasts DAB/DAB+/FM & Internet radio capabilities.
For those who value connectivity, the R410 offers a plethora of options:
- Physical connections like Toslink digital input (supporting up to 24-bit/192kHz) and an HDMI port with eARC support. The latter can serve as an alternative to a soundbar when paired with a TV.
- RIAA phono input for turntables.
- Wireless features include Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, AirPlay 2, and built-in Chromecast. On the Bluetooth front, it supports aptX-HD for high-resolution audio playback.
Ruark has equipped the R410 with a “powerful” processor, ensuring a swift user experience. This is particularly evident when using the RotoDial controller and interacting with compatible apps.
Aesthetics.
The R410’s design draws inspiration from the 1970s. It boasts a hand-crafted grille and a cabinet made from sustainable woods. These woods undergo a unique process where they are “spliced, coloured, and recomposed” to mimic slow-growing hardwoods. This ensures a consistent colour and pattern over time. The high-resolution colour display is portrait-oriented, mirroring the way people use their smartphones.
Ruark’s signature RotoDial has been a staple in their products. With the R410, they’ve refined its design, making it even more tactile. The system also comes with a rechargeable remote among other accessories.
Sound Quality.
The R410 is powered by a new generation of digital amplifiers. These are touted to offer “high efficiency and output with ultra-low distortion”. Additionally, Burr-Brown DACs handle the digital/analogue audio conversion. The system aims to fill any room with music, delivering 120W of Class D power. It features silk dome tweeters, long-throw NS+ mid/bass units, and dual bass enclosures to enhance bass performance.
Available in walnut brown and grey finishes, the Ruark R410 is priced at an RRP of £1299.
