Audio T Verdict
The Ruark RM05 remote is a simple but genuinely useful addition to the R1 Mk4, R1S and R2 Mk4.
Ruark’s trademark RotoDial makes each compatible radio or music system easy to operate directly, but reaching the top-mounted controls is not always convenient. The RM05 allows everyday functions to be accessed from across the room, from the other side of the bed or while sitting at a desk.
It provides standby, source selection, menu access, volume adjustment and playback navigation, together with four direct preset buttons for quickly returning to favourite stations or supported content.
The remote is particularly useful when the Ruark system is positioned on a high shelf, across a bedroom, at the back of a kitchen worktop or in another location where regularly reaching the RotoDial would be inconvenient.
Its slim 7mm profile and 25g weight make it easy to handle and discreet enough to leave on a bedside table or desk. A CR2025 coin-cell battery is supplied already fitted, so the remote is ready to use once its protective battery tab has been removed.
The RM05 uses conventional infrared control. It does not require Bluetooth pairing, a Wi-Fi connection or an app, but it should be pointed towards the compatible Ruark product with a reasonably clear line of sight.
Compatibility is limited to the Ruark R1 Mk4, R1S and R2 Mk4. It should not be purchased as a replacement remote for earlier R1 or R2 generations, the R3S, MR1 speakers or Ruark’s larger 100 Series products.
For owners of one of the three compatible models, the RM05 is an inexpensive accessory that makes everyday operation noticeably more convenient.
Ruark RM05 Remote Control
The Ruark RM05 is a compact infrared remote control designed specifically for the Ruark R1 Mk4, R1S and R2 Mk4.
It replicates the most frequently used controls from the product’s RotoDial interface, allowing the radio or music system to be operated without walking over to the cabinet.
Compatible Ruark Products
The RM05 is officially compatible with:
- Ruark R1 Mk4 Bluetooth Radio
- Ruark R1S Smart Radio
- Ruark R2 Mk4 Smart Music System
The remote works with the standard and special-edition finishes of these models, provided the underlying product is an R1 Mk4, R1S or R2 Mk4.
Check Your Ruark Model Before Ordering
The RM05 is not a universal Ruark remote control.
It is not intended for:
- Earlier generations of the Ruark R1
- Earlier generations of the Ruark R2
- Ruark R3 or R3S
- Ruark MR1 active speakers
- Ruark R5 or R7
- Ruark R410, R610, R710 or R810
- Other brands of radio or music system
Check the model name on the product, packaging or original documentation before purchasing.
Infrared Remote Operation
The RM05 communicates using infrared light.
Unlike a Bluetooth remote, it does not require a pairing procedure. Simply remove the battery-protection tab, point the remote towards the compatible Ruark product and press the required button.
For reliable operation:
- Point the front of the remote towards the Ruark system
- Maintain a reasonably clear line of sight
- Avoid covering the product’s infrared receiver
- Keep the remote within a normal domestic-room distance
- Replace the battery if operation becomes intermittent
Strong direct sunlight, certain lighting systems and objects positioned in front of the receiver can reduce infrared performance.
Standby Control
The standby button allows the compatible Ruark product to be switched on or returned to standby remotely.
This is particularly convenient when the radio is used beside a bed, positioned across a kitchen or installed on a shelf that is difficult to reach.
Volume Adjustment
Dedicated volume buttons allow the listening level to be raised or lowered without using the RotoDial on the product itself.
Begin at a moderate level when changing source, as different radio stations, Bluetooth devices and external inputs may not all play at exactly the same volume.
Source Selection
The source control moves through the input options available on the connected Ruark model.
Depending on the product, these may include:
- DAB and DAB+ radio
- FM radio
- Internet Radio
- Podcasts
- Bluetooth
- Integrated streaming services
- USB playback
- Analogue line input
The exact source list depends on whether the remote is being used with an R1 Mk4, R1S or R2 Mk4.
Play and Pause
The play and pause control can operate compatible Bluetooth, USB and streaming content.
Its behaviour depends on the selected source. Live radio broadcasts cannot normally be paused unless the service or connected application specifically supports that function.
Previous and Next Controls
The previous and next buttons can be used to move between compatible tracks, stations or menu items.
Depending on the active source, they may allow the user to:
- Skip to the next or previous track
- Move through a station list
- Seek the next or previous FM station
- Navigate compatible menus
- Move through supported playback content
Menu Access
The menu control provides access to compatible source and system options without reaching for the controls on the cabinet.
More involved adjustments may still require the product’s display and navigation controls, but the remote covers the everyday functions most customers use regularly.
Four Direct Preset Buttons
Four numbered preset buttons provide immediate access to favourite stations or compatible stored content.
This makes the remote especially useful for customers who regularly listen to the same small group of radio stations.
Preset availability depends on the connected Ruark model and selected source. The compatible product may contain more stored presets than the four positions provided directly on the remote.
Saving and Recalling Presets
Use the preset functions on the connected Ruark product to store favourite stations or supported content.
The four direct buttons on the RM05 then provide quick access to the first four compatible preset positions.
Consult the R1 Mk4, R1S or R2 Mk4 user guide for source-specific preset instructions.
Ideal for Bedside Use
The RM05 is particularly useful when an R1 Mk4 or R1S is being used as a bedside radio and alarm clock.
It allows the user to adjust volume, change source or return the radio to standby without leaning across the bed or reaching for the top-mounted controls.
Alarm setup, snooze operation and more detailed clock settings may still be easier to manage directly through the product’s RotoDial and display.
Useful in Kitchens and Living Spaces
A Ruark radio or R2 Mk4 may be positioned at the back of a kitchen worktop, on a shelf or at the opposite end of a living room.
The remote allows everyday control without handling the product with wet or dirty hands, moving around the room or interrupting another task.
It can also be useful for customers with reduced mobility or restricted access to the top of the cabinet.
No App or Network Required
The RM05 operates independently of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and smartphone applications.
It can therefore continue controlling compatible functions when:
- A phone is not nearby
- The control app is closed
- The home network is unavailable
- Bluetooth is being used by another device
- A guest wants to operate the system
The remote does not replace the broader browsing and search functions available through an app on the R1S and R2 Mk4, but it provides faster access to routine controls.
Compact and Lightweight Design
The RM05 measures approximately 85mm long, 34mm wide and just 7mm deep.
At approximately 25g including its fitted battery, it is light enough for comfortable one-handed operation and small enough to store beside the radio.
The slim design does mean that the remote can be misplaced more easily than a larger handset, so choosing a regular storage position is sensible.
Black Finish
The remote is supplied in a neutral black finish with clearly identified controls.
Its appearance is intended to complement all standard colour versions of the R1 Mk4, R1S and R2 Mk4 rather than matching one particular cabinet finish.
CR2025 Coin-Cell Battery
The RM05 is powered by one replaceable CR2025 3V lithium coin-cell battery.
A battery is supplied and fitted in the remote.
Before first use, remove the insulating battery tab where fitted. If the remote later becomes unreliable or its operating range decreases, replace the battery with a new CR2025 of the same type.
Coin-Cell Battery Safety
Coin-cell batteries can cause serious injury if swallowed.
- Keep new and used batteries away from children
- Fit the battery with the correct polarity
- Do not recharge, dismantle or expose the battery to heat
- Dispose of used batteries through an appropriate recycling facility
- Seek urgent medical assistance if a battery may have been swallowed
Replacing the Battery
- Turn the remote over and locate the battery holder.
- Release or slide out the holder carefully.
- Remove the old CR2025 battery.
- Insert a new CR2025 with the polarity matching the markings on the holder.
- Return the holder securely to the remote.
- Test the remote while pointing it towards the compatible Ruark product.
Do not force the holder or substitute a thicker coin cell if the battery compartment does not close normally.
No Recharging Required
The RM05 is not rechargeable and does not contain a USB charging connection.
Its low-power infrared operation allows it to run from a small replaceable coin-cell battery.
Battery life will depend on frequency of use, battery quality and storage conditions.
No Pairing or Programming
The RM05 is supplied as a dedicated Ruark remote rather than a universal or learning handset.
It does not require:
- Bluetooth pairing
- Wi-Fi setup
- A manufacturer code
- Programming through an app
- Copying commands from another remote
Once the battery is active, it should operate a compatible Ruark model immediately.
Not a Universal Remote
The RM05 cannot be programmed to control a television, amplifier, set-top box or another manufacturer’s product.
It does not provide:
- Learning functions
- Macro programming
- Device-code entry
- A display screen
- Backlit buttons
- Voice control
Its purpose is to provide simple and reliable control of the three compatible Ruark products.
Replacement or Additional Remote
The RM05 can be purchased as:
- An optional first remote for a compatible Ruark product
- A replacement for a lost or damaged RM05
- An additional remote for another room or regular listening position
No setup difference is required between an original and replacement remote.
Compatible Product Options
Ruark R1 Mk4
The original matching product for the RM05.
The remote provides everyday control of radio, Bluetooth, USB and analogue playback, together with direct preset access.
Ruark R1S
The current smart-radio alternative, adding Internet Radio, podcasts and integrated streaming services.
The RM05 provides quicker access to everyday controls when app browsing is not required.
Ruark R2 Mk4
A wider stereo music system with Internet Radio, streaming, DAB, FM and Bluetooth.
The remote is useful when the R2 is positioned across a bedroom, kitchen or living space.
Other Ruark Models
The RM05 is not compatible with other Ruark radios, active speakers or 100 Series systems.
Those products use different control systems or dedicated remotes.
Related Ruark Products and Audio T Guides
Key Features
- Official Ruark RM05 remote control
- Compatible with Ruark R1 Mk4
- Compatible with Ruark R1S
- Compatible with Ruark R2 Mk4
- Dedicated infrared operation
- No Bluetooth pairing required
- No Wi-Fi connection required
- No programming codes required
- Standby control
- Volume adjustment
- Source selection
- Menu access
- Play and pause control
- Previous and next controls
- Radio-station navigation
- Track navigation
- Four direct preset buttons
- Preset storage and recall support
- Compact 85mm-long design
- Ultra-slim 7mm profile
- Approximately 25g product weight
- Neutral black finish
- One-handed operation
- CR2025 coin-cell battery
- Battery supplied and fitted
- Replaceable battery
- Not rechargeable
- No display screen
- No button backlighting
- No learning or macro functions
- Suitable as a replacement remote
- Suitable as an additional remote
- Two-year Ruark guarantee
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Ruark products are compatible with the RM05 remote?
The Ruark R1 Mk4, R1S and R2 Mk4.
Will it work with an older Ruark R1?
No. Compatibility is limited to the R1 Mk4 generation and the newer R1S.
Will it work with an older Ruark R2?
No. It is compatible with the R2 Mk4 only.
Can it control the Ruark R3S or MR1 speakers?
No. Those products use different remote-control systems.
Does it work with the Ruark R410, R610, R710 or R810?
No. Ruark’s 100 Series products use their own rechargeable wireless remotes.
Does the remote require pairing?
No. It uses infrared and should operate a compatible product once the battery is active.
Does it require Wi-Fi or Bluetooth?
No. Remote operation is independent of the product’s network and Bluetooth connections.
Does it require line of sight?
Yes. Point the remote towards the compatible Ruark product without major objects blocking the infrared signal.
Which functions can it control?
Standby, volume, source selection, menu access, play and pause, previous and next navigation and four direct presets.
Can the preset buttons store radio stations?
Yes. The preset functions can store and recall compatible stations or supported content, depending on the connected Ruark model and source.
Can it control every setting on the Ruark product?
It covers the main everyday controls. Some detailed alarm, network and system settings may still be easier to configure through the product’s RotoDial, display or control app.
Is the battery included?
Yes. One CR2025 coin-cell battery is supplied and fitted.
Is the remote rechargeable?
No. Replace the CR2025 battery when required.
Which replacement battery should I buy?
Use one CR2025 3V lithium coin-cell battery.
How large is the remote?
Approximately 85mm long, 34mm wide and 7mm deep.
How much does it weigh?
Approximately 25g including the fitted battery.
Does the remote have backlit buttons?
No.
Can it learn commands from another remote?
No. It is a dedicated Ruark remote rather than a learning or universal handset.
Can it control my television?
No. It cannot be programmed to operate televisions or other third-party equipment.
Can I buy it as a replacement for a lost remote?
Yes, provided the Ruark product is an R1 Mk4, R1S or R2 Mk4.
What guarantee is provided?
Ruark provides a standard two-year manufacturer guarantee under its current terms.
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Ruark model and compatibility checks
- Replacement-remote advice
- R1 Mk4, R1S and R2 Mk4 identification assistance
- Preset and everyday control guidance
- Infrared operation troubleshooting
- Battery replacement advice
- Access to the wider Ruark range
- Ongoing product and technical support
Contact your local Audio T store if you need help confirming whether the Ruark RM05 remote is compatible with your radio or music system.