The Republic teams up with HIFIMAN for the ROG Kithara planar magnetic gaming headset

Audiophile gamers often find themselves at a crossroads, having to choose between their best-sounding cans or a more convenient, plug-and-play option with a microphone. They need fret no longer: the ROG Kithara is here. It’s a planar magnetic gaming headset co-produced by ROG and HIFIMAN, meaning you’re guaranteed best-in-class audio alongside unrivaled gaming utility and convenience. Here’s how this headset gives audiophiles and hardcore gamers the best of both worlds.

How a planar magnetic headset amps up your audio experience

Instead of traditional dynamic drivers, like most gaming headsets use, the ROG Kithara gaming headset uses 100mm planar magnetic drivers in its ear cups. Planar magnetic drivers’ strong magnetic fields help minimize flex-induced distortion so they can deliver incredibly accurate, authentic sound reproduction. You'll hear audio cues and musical notes exactly as sound engineers and composers intend you to.

Despite the inherent sophistication of planar magnetic technology, not all planar magnetic headsets are created equal. That’s why we teamed up with HIFIMAN to ensure the ROG Kithara is the best planar magnetic solution for you. Whether you’re playing games, listening to music, or watching video content, you’ll get an audiophile-grade sound experience. Expect supremely distinct, clear audio cues in games like Rainbow Six Siege, where hearing a footstep, gadget noise, or lone pistol shot can change the fate of an entire match. When listening to the deepest, most rumbling tunes from Death Stranding or the busiest bops from Sonic Racing CrossWorlds, every note will come through with richness, clarity, and identity.

The cans’ balanced sound signature makes them a listening treat for power gamers and audiophiles alike, satisfying two needs with one gadget. HIFIMAN's Stealth Magnets and Neo Supernano Diaphragm (NsD) reduce interference and boost audio clarity, respectively — so no matter what you do, the listening experience remains unrivaled.

The ROG Kithara's open-back design also plays a factor in its incredible audio quality. The open-back design allows sounds to properly separate and deliver superior positional audio. This added dimensionality means you'll be able to distinguish a nearby footstep from a distant explosion more easily than ever. It also enhances the separation between bass, mids, and treble in music.

Being an audiophile gamer has never been easier

Oftentimes, audiophile gamers chase the best possible sound by using dedicated DAC and amplifier setups instead of simple plug-and-play gear. While these separate components can deliver cleaner audio and more power for high-end headphones, they also add extra cables, desk clutter, and setup complexity. Audiophile gamers also often face obstacles when their best cans don’t pack a mic, making impromptu gaming calls with the Discord squad a hassle.

The ROG Kithara gaming headset solves all these problems. It features swappable 4.4mm, 6.3mm, and 3.5mm single-ended plugs so you get a high-fidelity listening experience with any device. For maximum compatibility with laptops, consoles, and mobile devices, we also include a USB-C to dual 3.5mm adapter. Whether you want to hook up the ROG Kithara to DACs, amplifiers, mixers, or everyday gadgets, you can.

The ROG Kithara's adaptability extends to its mic. The detachable full-band MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) boom microphone uses separate wiring for audio and mic signals, ensuring interference-free in-game communication. Its wide frequency response range of 20Hz to 20kHz will catch any sound you make, no matter your voice type. Expect exceptionally clean and accurate vocal pickup — the mic's ultra-low <0.1% harmonic distortion keeps sound crisp. Likewise, a high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) means your voice will shine with minimal unwanted background sound.

You get choices on the comfort front. The ROG Kithara comes with mesh fabric ear cushions for peak breathability as well as velour ear cushions, which are especially soft on the skin. Pair either of those cushions with the metal-framed headset's soft, 8-level adjustable fit headband, and you're in for a truly cozy listening experience.

The ultimate headset for sound-obsessed gamers

The ROG Kithara’s planar magnetic technology, refined and perfected by HIFIMAN, provides an incredible listening experience no matter what you’re playing or jamming to. Plug-and-play convenience makes this headset useable with a wide array of devices. And the headset’s premium build means it looks as good as it feels. Take all these elements and combine them, and you have an audiophile gamer’s dream.

For more information on the pricing and availability of the ROG Kithara gaming headset in your region, please contact your local ASUS representative. And for a complete list of all the killer gaming gear ROG is delivering at CES 2026, check out this article.