We’re proud to share that the Ruark R610 Music Console, paired with the Sabre-R loudspeakers, has been named an “Editor’s Choice” by Hi-Fi Choice magazine. Recognised for their rich, moreish sound and stylish design, this combination marks a return to Ruark’s hi-fi roots – and what a return it is.
A True Fusion of Retro Style and Modern Features
Drawing inspiration from the music centres of the Seventies and Eighties, the R610 is part of Ruark’s ‘Seventies vibe’ 100 Series – described as the most advanced and desirable in the company’s history. With its wood-clad finish and timeless aesthetic, the R610 blends beautifully into any living space.
But don’t let the looks fool you. Underneath, it’s packed with all the modern functionality you’d expect: Apple AirPlay, Google Cast, Tidal Connect, Qobuz, Deezer, Bluetooth HD, and Internet, DAB/DAB+, and FM radio. It supports hi-res files up to 32-bit/384kHz and includes an MM phono stage for turntable connectivity, along with HDMI ARC/eARC for seamless TV integration.
High-Quality Build, Inside and Out
The R610 features a switch-mode power supply and Class D amplification, delivering 75W per channel. It’s designed around Burr-Brown DACs and audiophile-grade components. The control system is equally impressive, with Ruark’s refined RotoDial controller set into the console and a second rechargeable Bluetooth version included as a remote.
The 5-inch dimmable TFT display presents menus, album art, and station info with clarity, reverting to clock mode in standby. Two finish options are available: Fused Walnut veneer with Walnut slat trim or Satin Charcoal lacquer, also with Walnut slats.
The Sabre-R: A Reimagined Classic
The Sabre-R speakers are a nod to Ruark’s original Sabre design. These two-way bass reflex standmounts feature a 26mm silk dome tweeter with a neodymium motor and a 150mm natural fibre cone mid/bass driver. The crossover is set at 2.2kHz, with a frequency response of 50Hz–20kHz (+/-3dB). Sensitivity is rated at 86dB with a nominal impedance of 6 ohms – a perfect match for the R610.
Matching finishes and gold-plated binding posts add the final touch to a beautifully cohesive setup.
Smooth, Balanced Sound with Real Musicality
Hi-Fi Choice praised the sound as smooth and even, with a warm and lucid character. It’s a presentation that puts listenability first – natural, musical, and expressive. Whether streaming Steely Dan from Qobuz or spinning a vintage LP on a Technics SL-1200, the R610 and Sabre-R offer clarity and detail without harshness or showiness.
As the reviewer put it, vocals have “fine intelligibility and presence,” and high frequencies are rendered “with finesse and good tonal colour.”
Final Verdict from Hi-Fi Choice
The review concluded that while there may be other space-saving or higher-powered alternatives, few systems match the Ruark combo for charm, build quality, and sheer musical enjoyment. It’s a “brilliant fusion of cool retro style and rich, more-ish sonics.”
If you’d like to hear the R610 and Sabre-R for yourself, feel free to get in touch or visit us in-store. Click here to get in touch.
