The Asus ROG Kithara arrives as a distinctive gaming headset, bringing Hifiman’s planar-magnetic drivers and signature design to the Mac gaming world. The result is a headset that performs with considerable aplomb, even if that experience is occasionally undermined by some unfortunate complexities.
Developed as a collaboration between Asus ROG and Hifiman, the Kithara stands apart in a market saturated with mediocre options. Hifiman has built its reputation on premium headphones aimed squarely at audiophiles who are willing to invest heavily in their hobby, and that pedigree carries over here.
A Headset Built on Serious Audio Heritage
Gamers are not typically known for their willingness to part with their hard-earned cash, at least not without good reason. The Asus ROG Kithara makes a compelling case for doing exactly that. Priced at roughly £225, it positions itself firmly at the premium end of the gaming audio spectrum, reflecting the calibre of the technology inside.
The planar-magnetic driver technology is the headline feature. Historically reserved for high-end audiophile headphones, its inclusion here signals an ambition to deliver sound quality well beyond what most gaming headsets offer. That combination of Hifiman’s audio expertise and Asus ROG’s gaming focus is what sets the Kithara apart from the crowd.
Size and Design Considerations
One of the most immediately noticeable aspects of the Kithara is its scale. Few headsets are quite so large, a physical presence that reflects the substantial driver hardware housed within each earcup. The signature Hifiman design is evident throughout, lending the headset a look and feel closer to premium audio equipment than to typical gaming peripherals.
While the headset delivers on its promise of high-quality sound, the experience is not entirely without friction. Certain complexities can detract from the overall package, tempering what is otherwise an accomplished piece of hardware for those seeking audiophile-grade gaming audio on the Mac.
For gamers who value sound fidelity above all else and are prepared to spend accordingly, the Kithara represents a rare crossover product that brings genuine audiophile technology into the gaming space. It is compatible with Mac gaming, expanding the options available to players on Apple hardware who want premium sound. The Asus ROG Kithara is priced at approximately £225.
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Image: appleinsider.com
