Asus and Hifiman’s Kithara Headset: Can Planar Magnetics Conquer Gaming?

Asus and Hifiman’s $300+ ROG Kithara gaming headset might have the ears of audiophiles—and the grumble of their wallets. The planar magnetic design, featuring Hifiman drivers, claims a 8-55 kHz frequency range and 16 Ohm impedance, positioning it against the Audeze Maxwell 2.

According to the source, the drivers were 'tweaked the Hifiman 100 mm versions to high heaven', with compatibility across 4.4 mm, 3.5 mm, and 6.3 mm plugs. Reviewers noted low-end punch in CounterStrike 2 gameplay clips but questioned usability without a DAC.

Priced at $300-$350, this marks Asus’ first audiophile-tier gaming headset, leveraging Hifiman’s reputation for accuracy while entering a market dominated by wireless competitors.