ASUS launches a premium gaming soundbar for your desktop battlestation

If you're relying on your monitor's built-in speakers for gaming audio, you're probably missing out on a lot. A good headset is one solution, but for those who prefer speakers, ASUS has unveiled a new premium option. The company has officially introduced the ROG Gjallar Gaming Soundbar, expanding its Republic of Gamers lineup with a feature-packed desktop audio system.

Rather than offering just a standalone soundbar, the ROG Gjallar arrives as a complete setup consisting of a compact soundbar, a wireless subwoofer, and a dedicated audio control hub. It's designed to work with PCs, consoles, and even mobile devices, making it a versatile option for gamers with multiple platforms.

The soundbar itself is compact enough to sit neatly beneath most monitors while packing an impressive speaker configuration. ASUS has equipped it with left and right full-range drivers, dual high-fidelity tweeters, and two upward-firing speakers that can be disabled if preferred. Together, they deliver a 2.1.2-channel Dolby Atmos experience aimed at creating more immersive positional audio.

Connectivity is another highlight. The ROG Gjallar includes 3.5mm audio, optical, USB-C, HDMI 2.1 (eARC) with 4K 120Hz passthrough, and Bluetooth 5.3 for wireless connections. ASUS has even integrated two USB-A ports into the side of the soundbar, allowing it to double as a convenient desktop USB hub.

And naturally, this being an ROG product, there's also a healthy dose of RGB lighting running across the front. It wouldn't quite feel like gaming hardware without it, right? Handling all the controls is a separate wired audio control hub, which lets users adjust volume, manage playback, switch between EQ presets, and customize the soundbar's RGB lighting. A built-in LCD display provides audio status information, while dedicated buttons below the dial allow quick switching between connected devices.

ASUS has also included Acoustic Echo Cancellation (AEC) microphones with a dedicated digital signal processor. These are designed to filter out unwanted background audio during voice chats, helping your teammates hear you more clearly without picking up game audio from the speakers. Completing the package is a 6.5-inch, 65W wireless subwoofer, measuring around 35cm tall and 30cm long. It connects over a 5GHz wireless link to reduce latency while delivering deeper bass and a more cinematic sound.

The ROG Gjallar Gaming Soundbar is compatible with PC, Mac, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo consoles, and mobile devices. ASUS has yet to announce pricing or a release date, but it's clearly aiming this at gamers looking for a premium desktop audio upgrade.

As always, for the latest news on gaming peripherals, PC hardware, audio gear, and developments across the gaming industry, be sure to follow our dedicated hardware coverage.