Asus launches the HIFIMAN-designed ROG Kithara headset with planar drivers

The Asus ROG Kithara marks the company's first high-fidelity planar magnetic headset. Developed in partnership with the audiophile specialists at HIFIMAN, it was designed to deliver an immersive, studio-grade experience.

The Kitara headset features 100mm Hifiman planar magnetic drivers with an ultrawide frequency response of 8Hz to 55kHz, delivering the clarity needed for competitive gaming. The open-back architecture of the ROG Kithara is a departure from traditional gaming headsets, specifically chosen to create an expansive, natural soundstage. By allowing sound waves to pass through the earcups freely rather than reflecting within an enclosed space, the headset prevents overlapping frequencies and muddy audio, resulting in superior sound separation. While this design does not offer passive noise isolation and is best suited for quiet environments, it significantly enhances spatial awareness and imaging accuracy.

For communication, the Kithara features a detachable, full-band MEMS boom microphone covering the 20Hz to 20kHz range. Unlike most analogue headsets, which share a ground for audio and microphone signals, the Kithara's cable separates these signal channels to remove crosstalk. The MEMS technology also provides a higher signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) than traditional ECM microphones.

The headset features a high-quality OFC balanced cable with 3-in-1 swappable plugs. This includes a 4.4mm balanced plug for reduced electrical noise, alongside 3.5mm and 6.3mm single-ended plugs for broad compatibility with DACs, amplifiers, PCs, and consoles. Additionally, it includes a USB-C-to-dual-3.5mm adapter. The ROG Kithara features a metal frame and an aluminium hinge design. The 8-way adjustable headband works in tandem with plush memory foam padding to distribute weight across various head shapes.

The ROG Kithara is available globally, with regional pricing varying. In the United States, the headset is priced at $299.99. In Europe, it retails for €319.90.

KitGuru says: There are not many open-back gaming headsets with planar drivers, so there is some novelty here with this headset. 

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