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Cutting-edge sound modelling techniques have been used to design SuperConnect’s award-winning sound profile. In tandem with our custom hardware design, SuperConnect’s proprietary EQ configuration develops a warm open sound with clarity, detail and deep rich bass – free from coloration and distortion and benefiting from an expansive sound field. Everything the business has learned in over 15 years of development appears in this compelling piece of kit. The R2 has that naturally rich, weighty and expressive sound signature that we’ve come to know and love from Ruark’s previous products. Radio stations come through clear and punchy, and the R2 has a full-bodied approach that makes even the lower-quality digital stations pleasant to listen to.
Probably one of the best-selling Revo products of all time, The Revo SuperConnect is an attractive piece of technology that combines forward-thinking technology like Bluetooth connectivity with a compelling retro design. As one of the best-known radio brands in the UK, Revo has had an incredible run over the last fifteen years, providing state-of-the-art radio broadcasting to homes across the country. Revo SuperSystem is an all-in-one music system that includes DAB/DAB+, FM and internet radio, Spotify Connect support, Bluetooth wireless streaming, connection to NAS drives and other devices, Ethernet, USB charging and other connectors. Controls are as for the SuperConnect and there’s an OLED display plus dual alarms. There’s no SuperConnect stereo option here, but Revo has another model available in the form of the “ SuperSystem” if stereo is an absolute feature you cannot live without. SuperConnect Stereo is the stereo version of one of the world’s most acclaimed digital radios. It takes the expression of REVO’s design and engineering philosophy and the culmination of everything we have learnt in more than 20 years of award-winning product design and development to the next level. The SuperConnect Stereo is a ‘connected’ radio that delivers over 36,000 radio stations from around the world and a host of next-generation features and functionality.Yes, you could get a smart speaker or streamer that plays radio wirelessly over your phone or another device and might be controllable by your own voice, but that isn’t an option for everyone, especially those users who aren’t so au fait with the zippy convenience of the smartphone era. There’s still a pleasing simplicity of being able to press some manual buttons or twiddle an actual dial and, a few moments later, be soothed by Anne-Marie Minhall or infuriated by Jeremy Vine. Maybe the test of whether or not you’ve just been handed a great piece of hi-fi hardware isn’t “Is this a good piece of kit?”, instead it is something akin to “Do I want one of these?” The answer to that question, in the case of the Revo SuperConnect Stereo, is a resounding yes. Revo’s newest smart radio has not only demonstrated that you don’t need a hi-fi system to provide you with a decent, satisfying sound, but it’s also reinvigorated my appreciation for the simple format of classic radio.
With the SuperConnect Stereo, you’ll get 30W of clear digital audio from a Class-D amplifier and two BMR speakers inside. This should result in high-performance sound with a wide dispersion. On top of all this, you can adjust EQ settings in the companion app, plug sources in via aux, and set alarms. The tactile feel of the unit combined with its beautiful image makes it hard not to fall in love with the SuperConnect. What’s more, you get real, genuine wood casing with this device – not just wood-effect plastic. It’d be tough to provide a comprehensive Revo SuperConnect DAB radio review without paying some attention to the connectivity and performance aspects of the device. Unlike many other radios, the Revo radio also features Spotify Connect – although you’ll need a premium Spotify account to access it. Performance, thankfully, matches stylistic panache, based on our testing. The Stream 94L is an immensely enjoyable listen, with voices coming through with crystal clarity, the sense of rhythm conveyed expertly, and delivery coming through as punchy, detailed and dynamically expressive throughout.
All Ruark devices have a RotoDial control system that accesses menus by scrolling and then pressing to select. Added to that, there’s a remote control plus an UNDOK app for use on a phone or tablet. Revo’s design and engineering philosophy centres around quality, function, and style. The products within the Revo portfolio are unique for combining the latest in high-quality design principles with a heart-warming retro essence and an eye for innovation. There’s also a range of connectivity options to choose from, such as Bluetooth for wirelessly streaming your personal music collection. Finally, talk radio, news and drama is yet another strength. You’ll have to watch the volume – turn it up too high and it’s a little like being lectured by the Radio 4 news or Melvin Bragg on In Our Time while you’re standing in the same room but it’s hard to grumble when the sound has this much authority and presence.
That means that you’re going to end up with acoustic properties unlike many other devices available on the market. Sure, wood looks stunning, but it also provides added depth and reverb.Revo Radio is a slightly newer brand in the broadcasting market, founded by Colin Urie and David Baxter in 2004. BMR (Balanced Mode Radiator) speaker drivers utilise flat diaphragm transducer technology and combine the performance attributes of a flat panel speaker with the pistonic movement of a conventional loudspeaker, resulting in a high performance compact drive unit that develops wide dispersion and an expanded sweet spot.
It’s also a little smaller than the 380mm wide, 190mm high SuperConnect Stereo, and the gentle curves do a great job of minimising what bulk there is. In fact, with its off-white enclosure, dark glass panel and slatted wooden grill, the Light Cream version has to be one of the most attractive audio products I’ve ever reviewed.There’s also Bluetooth 4.2 support, though there are more steps than necessary to pair it with a smartphone. When selected it ought to go into pairing mode, but you need to dive into the settings first to start the pairing process. Sound Quality READ NEXT: The best wireless speakers to buy Revo SuperConnect Stereo review: What could be improved? Ruark’s products have won numerous industry awards and its first generation R1 Bluetooth radio was described as “the Aston Martin of DAB radios” by The Sunday Telegraph and as “the most beautiful radio in the world” by Tatler. How does it compare to the Revo SuperConnect Stereo? Well, without the latter to do A/B comparisons it’s hard to say, but it really comes down to character rather than quality. The Revo’s sound is punchier and its bass a little crisper. There’s slightly more warmth to the tone. However, the R2 Mk4 gives you a more open sound with a cleaner, brighter treble. I can’t imagine anyone feeling disappointed by either. Ruark R2 Mk4 review: What could be improved? For quality streaming from smartphones, just pair the phone to your SuperConnect via Bluetooth, and you’re ready to go.
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