Audio T Verdict
The Ruark RS1 is proof that a subwoofer does not need to be enormous, visually intrusive or tuned only for dramatic film effects.
It has been developed to add the low-frequency weight that compact speakers and all-in-one music systems cannot reproduce on their own, while retaining the speed, control and tonal character required for enjoyable music listening.
A 165mm downward-firing long-throw driver is partnered by a matching front-facing passive radiator. Together with the 100W Class D amplifier and compact 9.5-litre cabinet, this gives the RS1 a typical in-room response extending down to 35Hz.
That additional bass extension can make a surprisingly large difference. Drums gain physical impact, bass guitars become easier to follow and orchestral music develops more realistic scale. Television, films and gaming also benefit from greater depth and dynamics.
A well-adjusted RS1 should not sound like a separate box producing bass from one side of the room. It should seem as though the main speakers have simply become larger and more capable.
This makes setup particularly important. The crossover, level and phase controls allow the RS1 to work with speakers and systems of different sizes, but turning everything too high will produce slow, localised and overpowering bass.
Ruark recommends a starting crossover of around 80–100Hz with its MR1 speakers and R3S music system. For the larger R410, the suggested starting range is approximately 60–80Hz. These are starting points rather than fixed rules, as every room reinforces bass differently.
The RS1 is a natural visual and acoustic partner for the Ruark MR1 Mk3, R3S and R410, but it is not restricted to Ruark systems. It can be used with other active speakers, stereo amplifiers and AV receivers that provide a suitable mono subwoofer output or volume-controlled pre-output.
Its compact proportions and furniture-friendly finishes make it easier to accommodate than many conventional subwoofers. Rich Walnut complements Ruark’s veneered products, while Satin Charcoal offers a darker and more discreet alternative.
There are larger subwoofers capable of reaching deeper and playing louder in substantial rooms, but that is not really the RS1’s purpose. It is designed to bring natural bass extension to a compact music system without taking over the sound or the room.
For customers who enjoy their MR1, R3S or R410 but feel that the system could use more scale, weight and impact, the RS1 is one of the simplest and most effective upgrades available.
Ruark RS1 Active Subwoofer
The Ruark RS1 is a compact powered subwoofer designed for music, television and everyday entertainment systems.
Its internal amplifier means that it does not take power from the main amplifier or active speakers. It accepts a line-level signal through its mono RCA input and amplifies the low frequencies using its own dedicated electronics.
The RS1 has been developed as a natural partner for Ruark’s compact products, but its adjustable controls and conventional RCA connection allow it to work with many other compatible systems.
Why Add a Subwoofer?
Compact loudspeakers have limited cabinet volume and driver area. Even a very capable small speaker will eventually reach a point where it cannot reproduce the lowest notes with realistic weight.
Adding a correctly adjusted subwoofer can improve:
- The depth and definition of bass guitars
- The impact of drums and percussion
- The scale of orchestral and live recordings
- The physical presence of electronic music
- Television dialogue and soundtrack weight
- Film effects and gaming dynamics
- The sense of space within a recording
- Performance at lower listening levels
A subwoofer may also allow the main speakers to sound more relaxed, because the listener no longer needs to increase the overall volume simply to hear greater bass weight.
Designed for Musical Bass
The RS1 is intended to reproduce bass that is controlled, tuneful and properly integrated with the main system.
Musical bass involves more than producing a large amount of low-frequency energy. The subwoofer should preserve differences in pitch, timing and texture so that individual notes remain easy to follow.
When correctly adjusted, the RS1 should add scale and foundation without making every recording sound heavy or exaggerated.
165mm Long-Throw Active Driver
The RS1 uses a custom 165mm Ruark long-throw active driver.
The driver faces downwards towards the floor, allowing the cabinet to distribute low-frequency energy into the room while keeping the active cone protected from accidental contact.
Its long-throw suspension allows greater forward and backward movement than a conventional small speaker driver, helping it shift the volume of air required for convincing low bass.
The driver is powered directly by the RS1’s internal amplifier and works together with the front passive radiator and sealed cabinet volume.
165mm Front-Facing Passive Radiator
A matching 165mm passive radiator is positioned behind the front fabric grille.
The passive radiator does not contain a voice coil or electrical connection. It moves in response to pressure changes created inside the cabinet by the active driver.
This allows the RS1 to extend its bass response without using a conventional open reflex port.
A passive radiator can provide several practical advantages in a compact enclosure:
- No rushing air through a small port
- Reduced risk of audible port turbulence
- Useful bass extension from a modest cabinet
- Control over the cabinet tuning frequency
- A clean exterior design
Tuned 9.5-Litre Cabinet
The active driver and passive radiator operate within a tuned 9.5-litre enclosure.
Ruark lists a cabinet tuning frequency of 45Hz, with a typical in-room response of 35Hz to 180Hz.
The room itself will affect the final result. Walls, floors and corners reinforce low frequencies, so the same settings can sound quite different in two homes.
100W Class D Amplifier
A dedicated 100W nominal Class D amplifier powers the active driver.
Class D amplification provides high electrical efficiency and useful power from a compact circuit, making it well suited to an active subwoofer where sustained low-frequency control is important.
The amplifier has been developed as part of the complete RS1 system and is matched to the driver, passive radiator and cabinet tuning.
Soft-Clip Protection
The RS1 includes a soft-clipping protection filter.
When an amplifier reaches its maximum clean output, abrupt clipping can create harsh distortion and unnecessary stress. Soft clipping manages this transition more progressively, helping protect the driver and amplifier at high playback levels.
The system also monitors temperature. In the unlikely event of overheating, both status lights flash and audio is temporarily muted until the internal temperature has stabilised.
This protection should not be treated as permission to operate the RS1 continuously at excessive levels. If the bass sounds strained or distorted, reduce the volume.
35Hz to 180Hz Typical Response
Ruark specifies a typical in-room frequency response of 35Hz to 180Hz.
The upper figure allows the RS1 to integrate with very small speakers that begin losing bass at a comparatively high frequency.
The lower response provides useful depth for music and entertainment systems, although very large rooms or customers seeking the lowest home-cinema effects may require a larger specialist subwoofer.
Adjustable Crossover Frequency
The crossover control is continuously adjustable between 50Hz and 180Hz.
It determines the highest frequencies reproduced by the RS1:
- A lower setting restricts the RS1 to deeper bass
- A higher setting allows it to support smaller speakers further into the upper bass
- An excessively high setting can make the subwoofer easy to locate
- An excessively low setting can leave a gap between the subwoofer and main speakers
The ideal setting depends on the bass capability of the main system and the room.
Starting Crossover Settings
Ruark MR1
Ruark recommends beginning at approximately 80–100Hz.
The MR1 speakers already produce impressive bass for their size, so the RS1 should extend them rather than duplicate too much of their existing output.
Ruark R3S
Begin at approximately 80–100Hz.
Listen from the normal seating position and reduce the crossover if voices or upper-bass instruments begin to sound thick.
Ruark R410
Ruark recommends a lower starting range of approximately 60–80Hz.
The R410 already has greater bass extension, so the RS1 should concentrate on reinforcing the lowest frequencies.
Other Systems
Start close to the point where the main speakers begin losing bass.
The loudspeaker manufacturer’s frequency-response information may provide a useful guide, but final adjustment should be made by listening.
Adjustable Level Control
The level control determines how loudly the RS1 plays relative to the main speakers.
Too little level will make the subwoofer’s contribution difficult to hear. Too much will dominate the system and make every recording sound bass-heavy.
Ruark suggests beginning with the crossover and level controls around their halfway positions, then reducing or increasing them while listening to familiar music.
The objective is not to hear a separate bass source. The system should simply sound fuller and more capable.
0 or 180-Degree Phase Control
The phase switch provides two positions: 0 and 180 degrees.
Depending on the location of the subwoofer, speakers and listening seat, the bass produced by the RS1 may reinforce or partially cancel the output of the main speakers.
Compare both phase settings while seated in the normal listening position. Keep the setting that produces the most even, coherent and naturally integrated bass.
The preferred phase position may change if the RS1 is moved to another part of the room.
How a Correctly Adjusted RS1 Should Sound
When the setup is correct:
- The bass should appear to come from the main speakers
- Individual bass notes should remain easy to follow
- Voices should not become thick or chesty
- The subwoofer should not attract attention to its location
- Switching it off should reduce scale and weight
- Switching it back on should restore the foundation without overwhelming the music
If the RS1 is clearly identifiable as the source of the bass, the crossover or level is probably set too high.
Step-by-Step Initial Setup
- Place the RS1 on the floor near the main speakers.
- Avoid placing it tightly inside a corner.
- Connect the system’s subwoofer output to the RS1 using the supplied RCA cable.
- Connect the supplied mains cable.
- Set the level control near its halfway point.
- Select an appropriate starting crossover for the main speakers.
- Begin with the phase switch at 0 degrees.
- Play several familiar recordings with clear bass content.
- Adjust the level until the bass supports rather than dominates the system.
- Compare the 0 and 180-degree phase settings.
- Fine-tune the crossover in small steps.
- Return to the same listening position after each adjustment.
Do not complete the setup while standing beside the RS1. Bass can vary considerably across a room, so every adjustment should be judged from the normal listening seat.
The Switch-Off Test
Play a familiar track with a steady bass line and switch the RS1 off.
The system should sound slightly smaller and lighter, but not completely different. Switch the RS1 back on and the missing scale and foundation should return.
If switching it on produces an obvious boom or dramatic tonal change, reduce the level or crossover frequency.
Floor Placement
Ruark recommends placing the RS1 on the floor near the main speakers or within a few metres of them.
Floor placement allows the downward-facing driver to operate as intended and provides a stable foundation for the cabinet.
Do not place the RS1 on a lightweight shelf, table or resonant item of furniture.
Wall and Corner Positioning
Positioning the rear of the RS1 near a wall can provide useful low-frequency reinforcement.
Placing it tightly in a corner will create even greater reinforcement, but this frequently produces bass that is boomy, uneven and difficult to integrate.
Begin near the front wall but away from the corner. Move the RS1 in small steps if the bass sounds excessive or uneven.
Do Not Block the Driver
The active driver fires downwards and requires suitable clearance beneath the cabinet.
Do not place the RS1 on deep soft material that obstructs the opening, and do not store objects beneath or directly against the cabinet.
Keep the Front Radiator Clear
The passive radiator operates behind the front fabric grille and must be able to move freely.
Do not push the front of the RS1 directly against furniture, curtains or other objects.
Avoid placing the unit inside an enclosed cabinet, as this can restrict the radiator and cause excessive resonance.
Automatic Signal-Sensing Operation
The RS1 is designed to remain connected to the mains.
When no audio signal is present, it remains in a low-power standby state. It automatically wakes when it detects a suitable input signal.
After approximately 20 minutes without audio, the RS1 returns to standby.
This removes the need to reach behind the cabinet and switch it on and off during everyday use.
Status Lights
The rear status lights indicate the operating state:
- The orange light indicates low-power standby
- The blue light indicates that the RS1 is active
- Both lights flashing can indicate thermal protection
If the RS1 does not wake, check that the source is playing, the system’s subwoofer output is active and the RCA cable is connected securely.
Mono RCA Input
The RS1 has one mono RCA line-level input.
It is designed for connection to:
- A dedicated subwoofer output
- An LFE output from a compatible AV receiver
- A volume-controlled pre-output
- A compatible active-speaker subwoofer output
- A compatible all-in-one music-system subwoofer output
The maximum specified input level is 2.3Vrms.
Using a Stereo Pre-Output
The RS1 can be used with a volume-controlled stereo pre-output where a dedicated mono subwoofer connection is unavailable.
Because its input is mono and very low frequencies contain little meaningful stereo information, Ruark recommends connecting only one pre-output channel, either left or right.
The pre-output must follow the system volume control. A fixed-level recording output is unsuitable because the RS1 volume would not change with the main speakers.
No Speaker-Level Input
The RS1 does not accept a direct connection from an amplifier’s loudspeaker terminals.
Do not connect speaker-level output to the RCA input, as the voltage may damage the subwoofer.
Where an amplifier has no subwoofer or volume-controlled pre-output, a different subwoofer with high-level connections may be more appropriate.
Using the RS1 with MR1 Mk3
The Ruark MR1 Mk3 Active Speakers provide a dedicated mono RCA subwoofer output.
Connect this directly to the RS1 using the supplied RCA cable.
Begin with the RS1 crossover at approximately 80–100Hz, then adjust the level so the bass appears to come from the MR1 speakers.
The combination creates a compact stereo system capable of handling music, television, gaming, computer audio and turntable playback with significantly greater low-frequency scale.
Using the RS1 with Earlier MR1 Models
The RS1 can also work with Ruark MR1 Mk1 and MR1 Mk2 speakers.
The original MR1 Mk1 uses a 3.5mm stereo subwoofer output, so a suitable 3.5mm stereo-jack-to-RCA lead or adapter is required.
Connection details vary between generations, so confirm the socket type before purchasing any additional cable.
Using the RS1 with R3S
The Ruark R3S Compact Music System provides a configurable RCA output suitable for an active subwoofer.
Begin with the RS1 crossover at approximately 80–100Hz and adjust the level so that the R3S gains weight without losing its clarity or Stereo+ spaciousness.
The RS1 can be particularly beneficial where the R3S is used for television, film sound or bass-heavy music in a larger room.
Using the RS1 with R410
The Ruark R410 Integrated Music System has greater bass capability than the MR1 or R3S, so Ruark recommends beginning with a lower RS1 crossover setting of approximately 60–80Hz.
The RS1 should fill in the deepest frequencies rather than reproducing too much of the bass already handled by the R410.
When adjusted correctly, switching the subwoofer off should reduce the scale and foundation slightly, while switching it back on should make the system sound larger without revealing where the RS1 is positioned.
Using the RS1 with Other Active Speakers
The RS1 can be used with active speakers from other manufacturers where a suitable mono subwoofer or volume-controlled pre-output is provided.
Check:
- The output uses an RCA or compatible line-level connection
- The output follows the speaker-system volume
- The main speakers do not require a proprietary subwoofer
- The crossover range suits the speakers
- The source output remains within the RS1 input specification
Using the RS1 with a Stereo Amplifier
A stereo amplifier can be used when it provides a dedicated subwoofer output or volume-controlled pre-output.
A fixed line output, tape output or recording output is not suitable because its level remains constant as the amplifier volume changes.
The RS1 does not remove bass from the main speakers. They continue to operate normally while the subwoofer adds the low frequencies selected by its crossover control.
Using the RS1 with an AV Receiver
The mono RCA input can accept a suitable subwoofer or LFE output from an AV receiver.
Where the receiver also applies its own bass-management crossover, care is required to avoid unnecessary double filtering.
Follow the receiver’s setup instructions and confirm that the resulting crossover arrangement provides smooth integration with the other speakers.
Rich Walnut Finish
The Rich Walnut version uses veneered upper and lower panels combined with a Dark Slate fabric grille.
It coordinates naturally with Ruark’s walnut-finished MR1, R3S and R410 products, as well as many contemporary turntables and furniture finishes.
Satin Charcoal Finish
The Satin Charcoal version combines dark lacquered panels with the same Dark Slate fabric grille.
It offers a more understated appearance and works well with charcoal, grey and black audio equipment.
RS1 or a Larger Subwoofer?
Choose the RS1 When
- You want a compact and discreet subwoofer
- Music performance is the priority
- You own MR1, R3S or R410
- The room is small or medium-sized
- Furniture-friendly design is important
- You want simple automatic operation
- A 35Hz typical response meets your needs
Consider a Larger Subwoofer When
- The room is particularly large
- Reference-level film effects are the priority
- Output below 30Hz is essential
- You need high-level speaker connections
- Advanced app-controlled equalisation is required
- You are building a dedicated home-cinema system
- Maximum output matters more than compact size
System Matching
Well Suited To
- Ruark MR1 speaker systems
- Ruark R3S compact music systems
- Ruark R410 integrated music systems
- Compatible active speakers
- Stereo amplifiers with subwoofer output
- AV receivers with mono subwoofer output
- Music, television and gaming systems
- Small and medium-sized rooms
Check Before Buying
- The system has a line-level subwoofer or pre-output
- A fixed recording output is not being used
- The supplied 3m RCA cable is long enough
- There is suitable floor space near the speakers
- The front radiator and downward driver will remain clear
- The required bass depth suits a compact subwoofer
- A nearby mains socket is available
- The selected finish suits the system and room
Ruark Products and Audio T Guides
Key Features
- Compact active subwoofer
- Designed for natural and musical bass
- 165mm Ruark long-throw active driver
- Downward-facing active-driver configuration
- 165mm passive bass radiator
- Front-facing passive-radiator configuration
- 100W nominal Class D amplifier
- 35Hz to 180Hz typical in-room response
- 9.5-litre tuned cabinet
- 45Hz cabinet tuning frequency
- Adjustable 50Hz to 180Hz crossover
- Adjustable subwoofer level
- 0 or 180-degree phase switch
- Automatic signal-sensing wake-up
- Automatic standby after approximately 20 minutes
- 0.5W standby consumption
- Soft-clip protection filter
- Thermal-overload protection
- Orange standby status light
- Blue active status light
- Mono RCA line-level input
- Maximum 2.3Vrms input
- Compatible with MR1 Mk1, Mk2 and Mk3
- Compatible with Ruark R3S
- Compatible with Ruark R410
- Compatible with suitable active speakers
- Compatible with suitable stereo amplifiers
- Compatible with suitable AV receivers
- 3m RCA subwoofer cable included
- 2m mains cable included
- Rich Walnut finish
- Satin Charcoal finish
- Dark Slate fabric grille
- Two-year standard Ruark guarantee
- Free third year through Ruark registration
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Ruark RS1 designed only for Ruark products?
No. It is designed to complement Ruark’s MR1, R3S and R410, but it can also be used with other systems that provide a suitable line-level subwoofer or volume-controlled pre-output.
Is it compatible with the Ruark MR1 Mk3?
Yes. The MR1 Mk3 provides a dedicated mono RCA subwoofer output and is one of the RS1’s natural matching systems.
Can it be used with older MR1 speakers?
Yes. Ruark confirms compatibility with MR1 Mk1 and Mk2. The original MR1 Mk1 requires a suitable 3.5mm stereo-jack-to-RCA lead or adapter.
Is it compatible with the Ruark R3S?
Yes. Ruark recommends beginning with a crossover setting of approximately 80–100Hz.
Is it compatible with the Ruark R410?
Yes. Ruark recommends beginning with a lower crossover setting of approximately 60–80Hz.
Can it connect to an ordinary stereo amplifier?
Yes, when the amplifier provides a dedicated subwoofer output or volume-controlled pre-output.
Can it connect to speaker terminals?
No. The RS1 accepts a line-level signal through its mono RCA input and must not be connected directly to speaker-level outputs.
Can I use a fixed line or tape output?
This is not recommended because a fixed output does not follow the main amplifier volume, so the RS1 level would not change with the speakers.
What crossover range is provided?
The crossover is continuously adjustable from 50Hz to 180Hz.
What does the phase switch do?
It changes the subwoofer’s relative phase between 0 and 180 degrees, helping it integrate with the main speakers at the listening position.
How should the level be adjusted?
Begin near the halfway position and reduce or increase it while listening to familiar music. The RS1 should add weight without becoming an obvious separate source.
Where should the RS1 be positioned?
Place it on the floor near the main speakers or within a few metres of them. A position near the front wall can work well, but avoid placing it tightly in a corner.
Can it be placed inside a cabinet?
No. The downward-facing active driver and front passive radiator require suitable clearance, and an enclosed cabinet can produce excessive resonance.
Does the RS1 switch on and off automatically?
Yes. It wakes when it detects an audio signal and returns to low-power standby after approximately 20 minutes without audio.
What happens if it overheats?
Both status lights flash and audio output is temporarily muted until the internal temperature has stabilised.
Is a connection cable included?
Yes. A 3m RCA subwoofer cable is supplied, together with a 2m mains cable.
Which finishes are available?
Rich Walnut or Satin Charcoal, both with a Dark Slate fabric grille.
What guarantee is provided?
Ruark provides a standard two-year guarantee. A free third year is available through Ruark product registration under its current terms.
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Ruark RS1 demonstrations with compatible systems
- Direct demonstrations with MR1 Mk3, R3S and R410
- Subwoofer-output and connection checks
- Crossover, level and phase setup guidance
- Room-positioning and bass-integration advice
- Assistance with earlier MR1 connection cables
- Stereo-amplifier and active-speaker compatibility advice
- Music and television system demonstrations
- Compact and larger subwoofer comparisons
- Finish and room-matching guidance
- Ruark guarantee and registration assistance
- Ongoing system and product support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss connection, placement and setup for the Ruark RS1.