ASUS ROG Kithara Open-Back Headphones Review: Specs, Pros and Cons

What stands out

• 100mm HIFIMAN planar magnetic drivers for low distortion
• Open-back design for a spacious soundstage
• On-cable MEMS boom microphone with 20Hz–20kHz response
• Includes 4.4mm, 3.5mm, and 6.3mm plugs plus USB-C adapter

Who it fits

Key specs explained for you

Driver Size: 100 mm

This headphone uses 100mm planar magnetic drivers. This large size helps produce detailed sound across a wide frequency range. You get vivid audio with exceptionally low distortion. This setup is ideal for listeners who want audiophile-grade fidelity. It separates bass, mids, and treble clearly. Compare this to smaller drivers that may lack depth or clarity in complex tracks.

Form Factor: Open-back

The open-back design allows air to move freely around the drivers. This creates a spacious, natural soundstage. You hear instruments and voices with clear separation. It feels less confined than closed-back models. This is best for quiet environments where outside noise is not a concern. It suits gamers and music lovers who prioritize immersion over isolation.

Connectivity: Wired, 4.4 mm, 3.5 mm, 6.3 mm, USB-C

These wired connections offer plug-and-play convenience across many devices. The 4.4mm balanced plug supports high-quality DACs and amps. The 3.5mm and 6.3mm plugs fit standard PCs and consoles. The USB-C adapter adds mobile compatibility. You avoid wireless latency or battery issues. This versatility ensures seamless use with gaming rigs, computers, and portable audio players.

Microphone: On-cable full-band MEMS boom

This MEMS boom microphone captures your voice accurately. It features a wide 20Hz–20kHz response range. The high signal-to-noise ratio ensures clean, lifelike communication. Teammates hear you clearly without background hiss. This is crucial for competitive gaming or voice chats. Compare this to basic built-in mics that often sound muffled or noisy in loud environments.

Design and build quality

According to the listing, the ASUS ROG Kithara uses a robust metal frame with matching hinges. This construction choice suggests durability for frequent travel or daily gaming sessions. The earcups feature a sleek finish with signature ROG elements. You get a black colorway that remains discreet in professional or public settings. The headband is soft and offers eight levels of adjustment. This wide range allows you to fine-tune the fit for different head sizes, ensuring consistent comfort during long listening periods.

The overall dimensions are 10.2 inches in width, 6.7 inches in length, and 4.3 inches in height. These measurements indicate a standard over-ear form factor. The listed weight is 11.2 ounces. This mass provides a solid feel without being excessively heavy. You can wear them for extended periods without significant fatigue. The open-back design creates a spacious soundstage. This layout helps with clear separation of bass, mids, and treble, which is useful for competitive gaming where spatial awareness matters.

Controls are minimal, relying on the on-cable full-band MEMS boom microphone for voice pickup. You do not need to reach for the earcups to manage calls. The microphone offers a wide 20Hz–20kHz response and high SNR. This setup ensures clean, lifelike communication. The wired connectivity with multiple plug options means you can connect directly to various devices. You get seamless compatibility with DACs, amps, PCs, consoles, and mobile devices without needing batteries or wireless pairing.

Setup and everyday use

Setting up the ASUS ROG Kithara is straightforward due to its plug-and-play design. The package includes a 4.4mm balanced plug, which connects directly to compatible DACs and amplifiers for optimal performance. If your device uses standard connectors, you can switch to the included 3.5mm or 6.3mm single-ended plugs. A USB-C adapter is also provided, allowing seamless connection to PCs, consoles, and mobile devices. This broad compatibility means you do not need to search for additional cables or adapters for most setups.

The headphone is wired, so you must manage the cable during use. It weighs 11.2 ounces, which is a moderate weight for open-back headphones. The eight-level adjustable headband allows you to customize the fit for your head shape. The metal frame and hinges provide structural stability, while the earcup design ensures the device sits securely. Because it is open-back, you will hear external sounds, and others may hear your audio. This architecture is best used in quiet environments where immersion is key.

For communication, the on-cable MEMS boom microphone captures voice with a 20Hz–20kHz response. This wide range ensures clear pickup for gaming or calls. The high signal-to-noise ratio helps keep your voice distinct from background noise. You simply plug in, adjust the headband, and begin using it with your chosen device. The setup requires no software or pairing processes, making it ready for immediate use.

Before You Buy This Headphone

You need to check your audio source first. The package includes a 4.4mm balanced plug, which is ideal for high-end DACs and amplifiers. If your device uses standard connectors, you must use the included 3.5mm or 6.3mm plugs, or the USB-C adapter. This ensures seamless compatibility with PCs, consoles, and mobile devices. Since these are open-back headphones, they let sound escape. You will need a quiet room to enjoy the spacious soundstage. Background noise will distract you. The metal frame and eight-level adjustable headband suggest durability, but you should handle them with care. Keep the earcups clean to maintain comfort. This model sits alongside other wired options in our guide. It suits listeners who prioritize audiophile-grade fidelity and precise imaging over wireless convenience. Check your port availability before purchasing to avoid needing extra adapters.

Check before you buy

• Verify your device has a 4.4mm balanced port for best quality.
• Ensure you have a quiet space for open-back audio.
• Check if your DAC supports the included 4.4mm or 3.5mm plugs.
• Confirm your console or PC has the required USB-C or jack ports.

The product at a glance

1

ASUS ROG Kithara Open-Back Headphones

Best for: gamers seeking wide soundstage and wired fidelity

Connectivity

4.4mm, 3.5mm, 6.3mm, USB-C

Driver Size

100mm

Form Factor

Headband

Recommended Use

Gaming

Microphone

Microphone

Driver Type

Planar Magnetic

View on Amazon: ASUS ROG Kithara Open-Back Headphones Affiliate link

The ASUS ROG Kithara features 100mm HIFIMAN planar magnetic drivers in an open-back design. It includes a full-band MEMS boom microphone with a 20Hz–20kHz response. The package provides 4.4mm, 3.5mm, and 6.3mm plugs plus a USB-C adapter. This wired setup suits gamers and audiophiles seeking wide soundstage and low distortion. You get a metal frame and adjustable headband for comfort.

Pros

• 100mm HIFIMAN planar magnetic drivers for high fidelity
• Open-back architecture for spacious soundstage
• Full-band MEMS boom microphone with high SNR
• Includes 4.4mm, 3.5mm, 6.3mm, and USB-C plugs

Cons

• Wired-only connectivity requires a cable connection
• Open-back design lacks noise isolation
• Heavier build at 11.2 ounces

Good fit if

• You want audiophile-grade planar magnetic drivers
• You need multiple plug options for various devices
• You prefer a spacious open-back soundstage

Skip if

• You require wireless Bluetooth connectivity
• You need closed-back noise isolation
• You prefer lightweight earbuds over headphones

Verdict: ASUS ROG Kithara Open-Back Planar Headphones deliver precise audio separation for gamers who prioritize soundstage width and driver quality over wireless convenience.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• asus rog kithara open back headphones alternatives
• best headphones under 30
• asus rog kithara open back headphones review
• asus rog rapture wifi gaming review