HIFIMAN-tuned audiophile headset, ROG Kithara, features 8Hz-55kHz range—SpeedNova wireless earbuds deliver 2.4GHz low-latency with IPX5 splash resistance.
ASUS ROG is redefining gaming audio at CES 2026 with two groundbreaking products: the ROG Kithara, a flagship planar-magnetic gaming headset developed with HIFIMAN, and the ROG Cetra Open Wireless, open-ear earbuds blending immersive sound with situational awareness.
Alongside these audio innovations, the ROG Falchion Ace 75 HE magnetic gaming keyboard introduces 0.1-3.5mm adjustable actuation and an 8000Hz polling rate—completing ROG’s peripheral ecosystem targeting competitive gamers and audiophile enthusiasts.
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ROG Kithara: Audiophile Engineering Meets Gaming
ROG Kithara is ROG’s flagship planar-magnetic gaming headset, developed with HIFIMAN to deliver audiophile-grade sound for gaming. Its ROG-tuned 100mm HIFIMAN planar magnetic drivers provide exceptional fidelity across an ultra-wide 8Hz-55kHz frequency range with vivid detail and exceptionally low distortion. The open-back design creates an expansive soundstage enhancing spatial awareness—critical for detecting subtle in-game cues like footsteps or distant gunfire, according to gaming audio technology.
Microphone precision matters in competitive play: a full-band MEMS boom microphone ensures accurate voice pickup with a wide 20Hz-20kHz response and minimal distortion, while dual 3.5mm inputs prevent crosstalk for uninterrupted communication. This eliminates the common issue where game audio bleeds into voice channels during intense moments.
Connectivity versatility sets Kithara apart—it offers unmatched compatibility across PCs, consoles, DACs, and amplifiers via a 3-in-1 cable with swappable 4.4mm balanced, 3.5mm, and 6.3mm single-ended plugs for high-fidelity playback. A USB-C adapter extends use to laptops and mobile devices, making it as at home with audiophile desktop setups as with portable gaming rigs.
ROG Cetra Open Wireless: Situational Awareness Without Compromise
The ROG Cetra Open Wireless gaming earbuds deliver immersive open-ear audio while keeping users aware of their surroundings—ideal for gaming, work, or outdoor activities. Dual-mode connectivity supports Bluetooth and ultra-low-latency 2.4GHz ROG SpeedNova, with USB-C one-way passthrough charging for uninterrupted use during marathon sessions.
Audio engineering highlights include 14.2mm Diamond-Like Carbon-coated drivers delivering faster, clearer response with minimal distortion. On-board audio modes—Phantom Bass and Immersion Mode—ensure an immersive, unmatched listening experience anywhere, anytime. The open-ear design addresses a critical gamer need: hearing teammates via Discord and roommates alerting you to real-world events simultaneously.
Durability meets comfort: ergonomic soft ear hooks, a reflective detachable neck strap, and IPX5 splash-proof water resistance enhance usability, making it a versatile companion for long gaming sessions or daily commutes. The IPX5 rating survives sweat during intense gaming or unexpected rain during outdoor use—practical for gamers living in multi-use spaces.
ROG Falchion Ace 75 HE: Magnetic Switch Revolution
The ROG Falchion Ace 75 HE keyboard combines speed, accuracy, and advanced control for both gaming and typing. It features a spacious 75% layout with hot-swappable ROG HFX V2/V2X magnetic switches, offering adjustable 0.1-3.5mm actuation point with precise 0.01mm fine-tuning. The new ROG Hall Sensor ensures exceptional precision while reducing electromagnetic interference.
Speed defines competitive advantage: an 8000Hz polling rate registers every keystroke in just 0.125ms—up to 8 times faster than competitor devices running standard 1000Hz polling. This matters in games like Valorant or Counter-Strike 2 where millisecond timing separates headshots from deaths.
User customization via an onboard adjustment wheel allows fine-tuning actuation and Rapid Trigger sensitivity (where key release instantly resets actuation point for faster double-taps), while an interactive touch panel provides convenient media and system control. Six-layer dampening improves keystroke acoustics, and durable ROG Doubleshot PBT keycaps with a protective carry case make the keyboard travel-ready for LAN tournaments.
Why These Products Matter
ROG’s CES 2026 audio/peripheral lineup targets two underserved markets:
1. Audiophile gamers frustrated by “gaming headsets” prioritizing RGB over sound quality. Kithara’s planar magnetic drivers rival $500+ audiophile cans while maintaining gaming-optimized tuning.
2. Hybrid users needing peripherals functioning across gaming, work, and lifestyle contexts. Cetra Open Wireless works equally well for Elden Ring boss fights, Zoom calls, and gym workouts—eliminating the need for separate earbud sets.
The Falchion Ace 75 HE’s magnetic switches address mechanical keyboard enthusiasts demanding Wooting-style analog control (where actuation point adjusts per-game) without building custom boards from scratch. At 8000Hz polling, it competes with esports-grade keyboards while maintaining the portability competitive players need for tournaments.
Availability: ROG Kithara, Cetra Open Wireless, and Falchion Ace 75 HE launch Q1-Q2 2026. Pricing TBA during CES 2026 (January 7-10, Las Vegas).
Also Read: Best Gaming Headsets 2026 | Planar Magnetic vs Dynamic Drivers Explained
