The R1 table radio, a classic from Ruark Audio, is now in its fourth generation. On its tidy front, a large OLED display shows the time as well as information on programs and settings - razor-sharp and readable from any angle. In addition, the brightness of the display can be individually adjusted in both active and standby mode. The rigid and acoustically inert polymer housing has a special acoustic coating on the inside which, in conjunction with the electronics and the newly developed Ruark NS+ speaker unit, ensures that the R1 can still be described as having the best sound in its class - regardless of the sound source. The R1 can be controlled by most MP3 players, smartphones and computers via the built-in Bluetooth receiver and the R1 also masters playback with impressive quality in this way. There are treble and bass controls for fine-tuning, while the loudness function ensures good sound even at low volumes. Radio reception is available via FM and DAB+, and additional information is transmitted via RDS. You can store your favorite stations in ten presets and call them up at the touch of a button.

There is a stereo headphone output and a switchable AUX input on the back of the R1, which you can use to connect additional devices. The R1 also has a USB charging socket for charging your smartphone. The latter is particularly useful if you use Bluetooth 3.0 to send your music, Internet radio or other services such as Spotify to the R1 via your smartphone: This prevents the phone battery from being drained during playback. The user-friendly control unit is located at the top of the housing. It has just a few buttons and can be operated intuitively. Visually, it is reminiscent of a telephone dial, which is why the manufacturer calls it RotoDial. Finally, the R1 can also be used as an alarm clock. Thanks to two alarm times and adjustable alarm volume, you can get back to your day when and how you want. A snooze function is also available.

Good sound should be accessible to all music lovers. Alan O'Rourke, founder and managing director of the British family business Ruark Audio, has been working according to this principle for more than 30 years. He has been building world-renowned loudspeakers from the very beginning, adding radios and music systems at the end of 2006, which are designed according to the same principles and cut a fine figure everywhere, be it in the living room, bedroom or office. But it is not just the sound of Ruark devices that is outstanding. Thanks to their elegant appearance, they also quickly became design classics. You don't have to go as far as the manufacturer, who claims that his products are "built to last". What is certain, however, is that they will provide many years of enjoyment, both in terms of sound and design.