ASUS Republic of Gamers has just about every aspect of PC gaming covered, including gaming headsets and other audio gear—except one: gaming speakers, specifically, a gaming soundbar. Well, that changes today as ROG quietly launches its first gaming soundbar, the Gjallar. You know it’s meant for gaming when it’s about as wide as a 27-inch gaming monitor.
Despite its compact footprint, the ROG Gjallar packs a surprisingly ambitious audio setup. It rocks a 2.1.2-channel configuration comprising four 50 mm (2-inch) full-range drivers, two 27 mm (1-inch) tweeters, upward-firing channels, and a 6.5-inch (165 mm), 65-watt wireless subwoofer. With Dolby Atmos onboard, it aims to create a more expansive, three-dimensional soundstage than your average desktop speaker setup. The subwoofer, meanwhile, connects over 5 GHz wireless, so you are free to tuck it away without having another cable snaking across your gaming room.
Another interesting touch is the all-in-one Audio Control Hub. Instead of reaching behind the soundbar every time you want to tweak something, the dedicated desktop controller puts volume, playback, input selection, EQ presets, RGB lighting, and microphone settings within easy reach. It even has two USB Type-A ports on the side, making it a handy little USB hub for plugging in peripherals.
Speaking of microphones, the Gjallar has built-in Acoustic Echo Cancellation (AEC) microphones. If you have ever had your teammates complain about hearing your game through your mic, this is ASUS’ answer. The AEC system filters out game audio and incoming voice chat, helping ensure your voice comes through clearly during online matches.
Connectivity is equally generous. Whether you game on a PC, Mac, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, or even a mobile device, the Gjallar has you covered with USB-C, HDMI 2.1 with eARC, optical, AUX, and Bluetooth 5.3. Better still, HDMI 2.1 supports 4K at 120 Hz pass-through, allowing high-refresh-rate gaming and high-resolution audio to coexist happily.
Like many recent ROG peripherals, the Gjallar ties into ASUS’ software ecosystem through Gear Link and Gear Link Mobile, where you can fine-tune EQ, lighting effects, and microphone settings to suit your setup.
ASUS has yet to reveal pricing or availability for the ROG Gjallar Gaming Soundbar. Meanwhile, you can dig into more information available on the official product page.
Images: ROG.