- Bluetooth Sound System with Solar Panel
- Play music from Bluetooth enabled smartphone, tablet or PC
- AC power and/or solar power
- E Ink Display
- USB port for mobile device charging
Product FeaturesColor: Black
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Frequently Bought Together
Product Information
Color: Black
Technical Details
| Brand Name | Eton |
| Item Weight | 3.5 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 12 x 8.4 x 3.5 inches |
| Item model number | NRKS100B |
| Batteries: | 1 Nonstandard Battery batteries required. (included) |
| Operating System | Windows |
| Number of Items | 1 |
Additional Information
| ASIN | B007HSOB4O |
| Shipping Weight | 5 pounds (View shipping rates and policies) |
| Shipping | This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S. |
| Date First Available | February 27, 2012 |
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Product Description
Color: Black
 Etón Rukus Portable Bluetooth Sound System with Solar Panel |  |
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Start a Rukus!The Eton Rukus Solar is a portable Bluetooth sound system with a high efficiency solar panel, so you can play your tunes all day long. Take it out to the park, to a tailgate, or use it at home with this self-powered sound system. |
Amplify virtually any media-playing deviceWith quick one-touch pairing, the Rukus Solar can wirelessly stream your music from any source. Its Bluetooth connectivity with AVRCP (one-touch pairing and control) and A2DP (high quality stereo streaming) support allows you to play music from any Bluetooth enabled smart phone, tablet or computer. It's lightweight and has an integrated handle making it easy to carry around. It also has a USB output to charge most smart phones and mobile devices and its storage net securely protects your device during transport. |  |
Big Sound!Don't get caught trying to rock out with some mini-speakers! With stereo sound blaring from two full-range speaker drivers, you're able to keep the Rukus playing all day long! Audio comes through crystal clear with the stereo sound and bass boost. |
 | Hold Up! You get MOG too!Your new Eton Rukus can only get better with 3 MONTHS of FREE music with access to MOG ($30 value). Access code is provided in the box for the primo listening package! What is MOG?MOG is an award-winning on-demand music subscription service. MOG provides users access to a vast music library of nearly 15 million songs to which they can stream whenever and wherever they want, uninterrupted. Consumers can choose a free, basic or primo listening package to stream its music collection through its mobile apps on iPhone and Android phones, as well as online. |
 | Bluetooth technology for a wireless experiencePlay music from Bluetooth enabled smartphones, tablet or computers. |  |
 | E ink Surf Segmented Display makes reading your Rukus easyE Ink display provides great visibility in direct sunlight and also a 180 degree viewing angle. It uses minimal power and is virtually indestructible. | |
 | Enjoy over 8 hours of music play timeInternal rechargeable Li-ion battery 7.4V 1500mA (depends on audio settings) | |
 | Charges fully in less than 6 hoursUsing its built-in high efficiency monocrystal solar panel |
 | USB port for mobile device charging |  |
 | Solar power and/or AC power | |
 | Aux-in jackListen to any audio device, Bluetooth or not |
Features:
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Customer Reviews
Most Helpful Customer Reviews
107 of 119 people found the following review helpful
Color Name:Black|Amazon Vine™ Review
(What's this?)
The Eton rukus is a well made boombox with the key feature of having a solar panel to charge the battery. Unfortunately, it seems most of the product cost is going to the battery and solar panel rather than the speakers themselves.
The sound from this unit is ok, but not great. You'll get sound similar to lower priced systems, but you do get the added benefit of a long lasting battery and the solar charger. The speakers are two small full range drivers. They are not ported at all, and their positioning makes the sound come out in a pretty directional nature.
The volume can be controlled on the unit or by your device. Cranking it all the way up, it's not all that loud for filling a noisy room or playing to a crowd outside. That said, the distortion isn't all that bad, either. What it lacks in sound, it makes up for in portability. The handle and design of the unit is very good quality. It feels sturdy.
I like that the elastic band to hold your music player is recessed and protected, although the down side to this is that it's on the underside of the Rukus, and you can't see it unless you take it back out. Therefore, you pretty much have to be resigned to set a playlist then walk away. Since it's bluetooth, there's no way to skip/reverse/pause from the unit. The only sound customization is a "bass" button, which adds a little, but unfortunately there's no indicator on the screen to let you know if it's on or off.
The e-ink screen is good, no complaints and when it changes, it doesn't flash completely black like some ereaders. It simply updates. Unfortunately it only displays battery level and the input (USB, Line in, or Bluetooth). It does not indicate volume or if the bass boost is turned on. I really would have liked those to be displayed.
In all, if you want something portable and solar powered, this would be an ok choice, just realize you're spending some of your money on those features vs. sound quality.
[Update]
Just wanted to update this review with a few more observations. The Rukus doesn't really charge via the solar panel while indoors. If it does, it's not strong enough for the charge indicator to come on. It will charge outdoors, even in fairly overcast skies.
Another good use for the Rukus is that it can charge any device via the USB port. To do this, you have to have the unit turned on, then you have to press the USB button. It will still play via bluetooth, but just plugging something into the USB port doesn't automatically start charging it. This makes sense in that you might not want to drain the Rukus' battery every time something gets plugged into the USB port. This also makes the Rukus a choice for disaster preparedness, travel (like mission trips or when you're not sure when you'll have power available), etc.
Lastly, I'm still not overly impressed with the sound. It's ok, but not on par with other docks. I believe that the size of the speakers and volume limitations are probably a design choice that helps conserve battery life. Driving bigger speakers louder would certainly take more power thus reducing the length of time you can play on battery power. I do like how it can be laid flat or be stood on end. By standing on end indoors, it helps disperse the sound as it hits the ceiling.
[Update #2]
I used this as an iPhone charger at a baseball game. My phone was about 50-75% depleted and the Rukus had about 3/4 of its battery left. I was using a baseball scoring app that drains the battery pretty quickly. It was bright and sunny and the Rukus was in direct sunlight. I was just able to get a 100% charge before the Rukus' battery was completely drained. Once drained, it shuts off. I guess the point is that if your iPhone needs charging and you plan to have it on using apps, it will drain the Rukus faster than the solar panel will charge it. I thought this might be useful info for some people.
[Update 7/2012]
In my quest to be green I placed the Rukus outside to charge the battery, then forgot about it. It rained. Now water is clearly inside the unit as the solar panel is fogged up. I'm trying to let it dry out before powering back on. Lesson learned: it's not water resistant. Not sure if I will let it dry out on its own or try to open it up to dry out.
Also, the plexiglas panel covering the solar panel is easily scratched. I took it to a baseball game (very dusty) and was placing a cooler and my drink on it since it provided a nice flat surface. Now there's a bunch of fine scratches on it. Doesn't seem to affect anything other than aesthetics, though.
The sound from this unit is ok, but not great. You'll get sound similar to lower priced systems, but you do get the added benefit of a long lasting battery and the solar charger. The speakers are two small full range drivers. They are not ported at all, and their positioning makes the sound come out in a pretty directional nature.
The volume can be controlled on the unit or by your device. Cranking it all the way up, it's not all that loud for filling a noisy room or playing to a crowd outside. That said, the distortion isn't all that bad, either. What it lacks in sound, it makes up for in portability. The handle and design of the unit is very good quality. It feels sturdy.
I like that the elastic band to hold your music player is recessed and protected, although the down side to this is that it's on the underside of the Rukus, and you can't see it unless you take it back out. Therefore, you pretty much have to be resigned to set a playlist then walk away. Since it's bluetooth, there's no way to skip/reverse/pause from the unit. The only sound customization is a "bass" button, which adds a little, but unfortunately there's no indicator on the screen to let you know if it's on or off.
The e-ink screen is good, no complaints and when it changes, it doesn't flash completely black like some ereaders. It simply updates. Unfortunately it only displays battery level and the input (USB, Line in, or Bluetooth). It does not indicate volume or if the bass boost is turned on. I really would have liked those to be displayed.
In all, if you want something portable and solar powered, this would be an ok choice, just realize you're spending some of your money on those features vs. sound quality.
[Update]
Just wanted to update this review with a few more observations. The Rukus doesn't really charge via the solar panel while indoors. If it does, it's not strong enough for the charge indicator to come on. It will charge outdoors, even in fairly overcast skies.
Another good use for the Rukus is that it can charge any device via the USB port. To do this, you have to have the unit turned on, then you have to press the USB button. It will still play via bluetooth, but just plugging something into the USB port doesn't automatically start charging it. This makes sense in that you might not want to drain the Rukus' battery every time something gets plugged into the USB port. This also makes the Rukus a choice for disaster preparedness, travel (like mission trips or when you're not sure when you'll have power available), etc.
Lastly, I'm still not overly impressed with the sound. It's ok, but not on par with other docks. I believe that the size of the speakers and volume limitations are probably a design choice that helps conserve battery life. Driving bigger speakers louder would certainly take more power thus reducing the length of time you can play on battery power. I do like how it can be laid flat or be stood on end. By standing on end indoors, it helps disperse the sound as it hits the ceiling.
[Update #2]
I used this as an iPhone charger at a baseball game. My phone was about 50-75% depleted and the Rukus had about 3/4 of its battery left. I was using a baseball scoring app that drains the battery pretty quickly. It was bright and sunny and the Rukus was in direct sunlight. I was just able to get a 100% charge before the Rukus' battery was completely drained. Once drained, it shuts off. I guess the point is that if your iPhone needs charging and you plan to have it on using apps, it will drain the Rukus faster than the solar panel will charge it. I thought this might be useful info for some people.
[Update 7/2012]
In my quest to be green I placed the Rukus outside to charge the battery, then forgot about it. It rained. Now water is clearly inside the unit as the solar panel is fogged up. I'm trying to let it dry out before powering back on. Lesson learned: it's not water resistant. Not sure if I will let it dry out on its own or try to open it up to dry out.
Also, the plexiglas panel covering the solar panel is easily scratched. I took it to a baseball game (very dusty) and was placing a cooler and my drink on it since it provided a nice flat surface. Now there's a bunch of fine scratches on it. Doesn't seem to affect anything other than aesthetics, though.
38 of 42 people found the following review helpful
Color Name:Black|Amazon Vine™ Review
(What's this?)
Eton is known for their emergency radios and the like. This isn't one. There is no radio on board so if your "device" quits you have a solar powered paperweight.
This is a great little unit for beach, poolside, tailgating, camping and all your bush parties. Probably not for hiking because it weighs close to five pounds, too heavy for a backpack. The sound is good with bass boost. There is a 50 to 70 foot range from your iphone. Don't know why this would be important but it's true. I think I would be more comfortable with some sort of protective cover over the solar panel when it's not being used but maybe it's tougher than I would expect.
I guess everyone is expected to be tech-savvy these days but the instructions are very sparse. There is a pamphlet which tells you how to charge the unit and that's about it. The online manual has about eight pages in english. The picture, naming the parts, is labeled wrong. Of course the 4G iphone is simple. Hold the bluetooth button on the unit for three seconds until you hear the beep. Tap "rukus" on the phone. If it asks for a password put in 1234. That's it, but not much info on connecting anything else. There is a USB port to charge you phone if needed and a little pocket on the back to store your phone securely.
There's a code number for three months free access to MOG music downloads ($30 value) but be sure to keep track of your registering date. You will be signed up and charged for a membership if you don't cancel in time. One of those deals.
This is a great little unit for beach, poolside, tailgating, camping and all your bush parties. Probably not for hiking because it weighs close to five pounds, too heavy for a backpack. The sound is good with bass boost. There is a 50 to 70 foot range from your iphone. Don't know why this would be important but it's true. I think I would be more comfortable with some sort of protective cover over the solar panel when it's not being used but maybe it's tougher than I would expect.
I guess everyone is expected to be tech-savvy these days but the instructions are very sparse. There is a pamphlet which tells you how to charge the unit and that's about it. The online manual has about eight pages in english. The picture, naming the parts, is labeled wrong. Of course the 4G iphone is simple. Hold the bluetooth button on the unit for three seconds until you hear the beep. Tap "rukus" on the phone. If it asks for a password put in 1234. That's it, but not much info on connecting anything else. There is a USB port to charge you phone if needed and a little pocket on the back to store your phone securely.
There's a code number for three months free access to MOG music downloads ($30 value) but be sure to keep track of your registering date. You will be signed up and charged for a membership if you don't cancel in time. One of those deals.
18 of 20 people found the following review helpful
By C. Thomas
Color Name:Black|Amazon Verified Purchase
I spend allot of time on my deck when it is warm out and have been struggling to find an elegant solution to listening to music downloaded to my phone when I am out there. Enter the Eton Rukus Solar Bluetooth Sound System. This device has thus far fit my needs perfectly.
(1) I charged it once a few days ago...since that time, my battery has continued to stay full. The built in Solar Panel keeps it charged continuously throughout the day.
(2) It was a breeze to connect to my Android phone. Once I paired the device through my Wireless Manager, it now automatically streams to the player if the Rukus is on and within range. No user intervention on my part.
(3) Sound Quality is just fine. It is certainly not high fidelity, but should meet the needs of 99% of all people.
(4) Not clunky, ultra portable.
(5) Stylish and slick looking in an old school way! My neighbors saw mine, and they liked it enough that they also ended up purchasing one.
(6) Its just reliable. Works when you want it to work. I can't recommend enough.
(7) Left it outside overnight and it rained! The Rukus is no worse for wear and playing just fine afterwards. Very durable it seems!
(1) I charged it once a few days ago...since that time, my battery has continued to stay full. The built in Solar Panel keeps it charged continuously throughout the day.
(2) It was a breeze to connect to my Android phone. Once I paired the device through my Wireless Manager, it now automatically streams to the player if the Rukus is on and within range. No user intervention on my part.
(3) Sound Quality is just fine. It is certainly not high fidelity, but should meet the needs of 99% of all people.
(4) Not clunky, ultra portable.
(5) Stylish and slick looking in an old school way! My neighbors saw mine, and they liked it enough that they also ended up purchasing one.
(6) Its just reliable. Works when you want it to work. I can't recommend enough.
(7) Left it outside overnight and it rained! The Rukus is no worse for wear and playing just fine afterwards. Very durable it seems!
Most Recent Customer Reviews
5.0 out of 5 stars
Love It!
The Bluetooth works great. It charges fairly quickly by sunlight and lasted all day at the beach or in the backyard. Read more
Published 10 days ago by TBerry
5.0 out of 5 stars
Bluetooth speaker
I love this speaker box. I use it everywhere I go to listen to my Sirius XM connection. I love it during football season to listen to my favorite teams play. Read more
Published 12 days ago by Jerry Arkansas
5.0 out of 5 stars
Seems to pair well with ipad 4
I am using this speaker everyday so I can see if it will continue to work as well as it is working now.....I have not tried the solar feature but will soon.... Read more
Published 18 days ago by Smilingmoon
4.0 out of 5 stars
Good portable speaker
Got this so I could take my music with me but to get more sound than my phone could provide. The Rukus is a good but not great product to accomplish this. Read more
Published 23 days ago by robm67
4.0 out of 5 stars
Needs volume power
This looks great, the color ant the shape is definitely making people turn heads to see it, but its kind a shame when they ask me to turn it on an everybody says "thats the... Read more
Published 1 month ago by Mexican customer
5.0 out of 5 stars
Dig It!!
I don't care if the sound is directional, the simple fact that it's solar makes it super for me. I live in San Antonio TX so I am never in a shortage of sun. Read more
Published 1 month ago by Tim Vinson
4.0 out of 5 stars
Works great!
Used this in my basement woodshop while working on a new project. It works great, love it. The volume isn't as loud as I'd like it to be, however it gets the job done!
Published 1 month ago by Bruce F
5.0 out of 5 stars
Rukus-rocks!!!!
I got my product a few days ago and after the 12-hours-charge wait I finally turned it on and it is completely what I wanted (what I saw on Tv) is the perfect outdoor-selfchargable... Read more
Published 2 months ago by Luis Enrique Villanueva Santos
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great fun, good sound
Our family loves using our Eton Rukus solar powered speaker system. It's awesome for playing outside because it's so mobile. Read more
Published 2 months ago by Princess
5.0 out of 5 stars
Excelent product
The sound can be a little louder but it's ok. The solar panel extend the battery lifetime enough to use throughout the day and stay with half of charge yet. Read more
Published 2 months ago by Leonardo Fonseca
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