Ruark Audio Sabre-R

Can these compact standmounters put their numerous rivals to the sword?

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Ruark Audio has, in the past two decades, become well known for its stylish, great-sounding internet radios, powered speakers and one-box wireless music systems. The brand's history, however, harks back to the mid 1980s, with the launch of its very first stereo speaker, the Sabre.

Now, 40 years after that first passive speaker - and 20 years since the Essex-based brand last made a pair of passive speakers - it has gone back to its origins with the new Ruark Sabre-R, a two-way, compact standmounter.

At £699, these speakers are not short of strong rivals. Our favourites at this price are the multiple Award-winning Bowers & Wilkins 606 S3, which can be yours for the same price.

These are smart-looking speakers, and nicely made. From the cabinet to the fabric grilles, the overall fit and finish is neat, of good quality and well designed. That they are on the compact side - measuring 29 x 18 x 22cm - adds to the appeal and means they are ideally suited to smaller and medium-sized rooms.