Ruark Audio’s MRx is a multiroom speaker for design lovers

British audio company Ruark Audio has just introduced its first connected wireless speaker called the MRx. Compatible with the company’s R2 Mk3 “all in one” music system and its R7 Mk3 radiogram, the MRx features Ruark’s trademark modern design, and also ushers in the company’s new “Link” app, which it alluded to last summer.

The MRx comes with capabilities and specs seen in other Ruark products, and builds on them. It’s got a stereo pair of 75mm full-range neodymium drivers that are newly redesigned and powered by a high-fidelity dual channel amplifier. On the back is a four-way selector switch that allows for the MRx to be used as a solo device or part of a stereo pair.

Regarding connectivity, it has an integrated Bluetooth receiver with aptX, and via an internet connection, it supports Spotify Connect, Deezer, and Tidal, with Amazon Music forthcoming. If you want to directly plug in, a combined 3.5mm optical and analog input lets you connect anything from a turntable to a Google Chromecast, a multipurpose USB socket can be used with a memory stick or to charge your phone, and there’s an Ethernet socket to hardwire to a network if the speaker is somewhere where signal is weak.

As for how much real estate it takes up: lying horizontally with the stand, it's 11.8 x 7.1 x 7.1 inches, while vertically it's 6.3 x 12.6 x 7.1 inches. If required, there are threaded inserts on the rear panel so it can be wall mounted.

Ruark has crafted beautiful speakers for some time, so it’s nice to see the announcement of a device that brings real multiroom capability to the line, especially if you’ve already invested in some Ruark gear.

The MRx will be available beginning May 2018 for £399.99 ($559.89).