Ruark Audio unveils R4 IMS with aptX Bluetooth

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The R4 IMS (Integrated Music System) has received numerous updates and improvements over the previous R4, including the company's RotoDial controller and aptX Bluetooth.

The system also features a multi-format CD player, USB playback, DAB/DAB+/FM tuners and auxiliary inputs for other sources. Sound is delivered through a 2.1 channel system with integrated subwoofer.

Ruark Audio says this MK3 version of the original R4 has been “meticulously re-engineered form the ground up”, including a smaller size. Also new is an OLED display on the front, and Ruark’s RotoDial controller on top for managing functions. An infra-red remote control is also supplied.

Under the hood, the slot loading CD mechanism has been improved to be quicker and provide CD text information from compatible discs.

The rear-mounted USB port can playback MP3, AAC and WMA files and doubles up as a charging port, while a TV can be connected to the system via an optical input.

Owners of the outgoing R4i will note the iPod dock has been removed.

Available in August, the Ruark Audio R4 IMS costs £650 and is avaialble in a Soft White or Soft Black lacquer and a Rich Walnut veneer.

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Max Langridge

Max is a staff writer for What Hi-Fi?'s sister site, TechRadar, in Australia. But being the wonderful English guy he is, he helps out with content across a number of Future sites, including What Hi-Fi?. It wouldn't be his first exposure to the world of all things hi-fi and home cinema, as his first role in technology journalism was with What Hi-Fi? in the UK. Clearly he pined to return after making the move to Australia and the team have welcomed him back with arms wide open.