Ruark Audio x Fred Perry: A British Fusion of Sound and Style

By DaMarko Webster

In the world of high-end audio, Great Britain punches well above its weight, producing a surprising number of top-tier brands given its size. One such standout is Ruark Audio, a company known for blending stellar audio engineering with sleek aesthetics. Recently, Ruark Audio joined forces with fellow British icon Fred Perry to create a limited-edition version of its beloved MR1 Bluetooth speaker system—and it’s as much a statement piece as it is a technical marvel.

The Ruark Audio x Fred Perry MR1 speakers marry the clean, understated elegance of Fred Perry’s design ethos with Ruark’s audio craftsmanship. Finished in Fred Perry’s signature black and champagne colorway, a nod to the polo shirt that helped define casual luxury, the speakers boast matte black wood construction. The standout feature? The iconic Fred Perry laurel wreath logo subtly etched into polyester-piqué speaker grilles, adding a tactile dimension to their design.

Despite their compact dimensions—6.7” x 5.1” x 5.2” (170mm x 130mm x 135mm)—these speakers are designed to make an impact, whether perched on a bookshelf or stationed on a desk. Their size doesn’t compromise the sophistication they bring to a space, making them a natural fit for those with limited room but an appetite for quality.

Under the hood, the MR1 speakers deliver on Ruark’s reputation for audio excellence. Each unit features a 75mm polypropylene woofer paired with a 20mm silk dome tweeter, both custom-designed and powered by a neodymium magnet system. This hardware delivers precise audio output, from deep bass to crystal-clear highs, with support for aptX Bluetooth for high-resolution streaming.

Connectivity options abound, including analog and optical digital inputs, a 3.5mm AUX jack, and even a subwoofer output, making the MR1 flexible enough for any audio setup. An adaptive EQ system fine-tunes sound performance based on the environment, ensuring the listening experience is consistently optimal, whether the speakers are in a cozy home office or a bustling living room.

The MR1’s features extend beyond sound quality. A compact remote control makes it easy to adjust settings, while an automatic standby mode conserves energy by shutting off after 20 minutes of inactivity. Although mains-powered by default, Ruark offers the BackPack 3 accessory, a portable battery pack that promises up to 12 hours of wireless playtime, adding versatility for users on the move.

Founded in 1985 in Southend-on-Sea, Essex, Ruark Audio remains a family-owned brand dedicated to meticulous design and engineering. The collaboration with Fred Perry isn’t just a partnership—it’s a celebration of British craftsmanship, merging the audio precision of Ruark with the timeless fashion sensibilities of Fred Perry.

Whether you’re an audiophile, a design enthusiast, or both, the Ruark Audio x Fred Perry MR1 speakers are a testament to what happens when two heritage brands pool their expertise. It’s sound and style, perfectly synchronized.