These all-in-one hi-fi systems take up the least space but still have the sound for getting down. Let’s boogie...
We have often opined that – in terms of purest hi-fi quality at least – the more boxes the better. However, music systems that integrate all amplification, connectivity, streaming and more features into one box or a pair of speakers are an increasingly neat and attractive way to get hi-fi sound into your home.
All-in-one systems such as those we round up here are not only lifestyle-friendly in terms of their compact footprint, but their feature set means you can play just about anything through them.
Some of the best names in hi-fi are represented here too, demonstrating that even manufacturers more commonly associated with bigger systems understand that not everyone has space for separates and big speakers. As a result, they have worked hard to shoehorn the best technology possible into cabinets that can happily fit on a desk or small bookshelf. There are five-star products and Award-winners here, from Ruark, KEF, Triangle and more.
Each one of the products we have picked out is a fully capable hi-fi system, and what these tiny dancers do, they all do fantastically well – especially for such few and bijou boxes.
So, if you find yourself in the market for something cosily compact that still sounds great, we present a range of systems at various budgets, and at sizes that run from dinky to, um, slightly less dinky.
Sure, these systems are small. But, as they say, size isn’t important – it’s what you do with it that counts.
Ruark Audio MR1 Mk2
Gorgeous, retro looks, an intuitive design that has been streamlined from the original MR1, and sound quality that has been improved in every way; it’s no surprise that Ruark’s sequel shot straight to the top of our favourites list.
We said the original Ruark MR1 were the closest any desktop wireless speaker had come to sounding like proper hi-fi, and that’s equally true of the Mk2 version, thanks to a clearer, more insightful and open sound. The MR1 are wonderfully musical. The amount of subtlety conveyed is even greater than before, delivering rich detail and fluid dynamics on a whole new level. The Ruarks breathe new life into whatever music you play through them.
The dominant bassline in SBTRKT’s Wildfire is taut, packs a punch and you can hear its deep, squelchy textures. The MR1 are agile and authoritative. They time well, too; the magnificent pomp of David Bowie’s Magic Dance blares through the speakers with plenty of energy and sparkle.
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