The Panasonic GNW10 Sound Slayer is a somewhat unique product that we don’t encounter frequently: a pair of portable gaming speakers. However, the “portable” aspect refers not to carrying a small, standalone speaker, but rather to wearing a compact surround sound system.
Did you say wearing?
The GNW10 features a clean, modern design and is engineered for comfortable wear around the neck. Connection to your console is streamlined via a 2.4 GHz transmitter, enabling immediate use. The speaker collar houses four 38 mm drivers on each side, designed to deliver an “immersive 3D experience” simulating in-game spatial audio.
So, how does it perform? In practice, quite well. Setup is straightforward, and the ergonomic design ensures the 403-gram weight remains unnoticeable during extended use. Audio is streamed to the device with virtually no perceptible latency, and the sound quality exceeds initial expectations. Unfortunately, due to Xbox’s restrictions on unlicensed accessories, we were unable to test with our preferred surround sound titles, Halo: Infinite and Forza Horizon 5. Therefore, we utilized the PS5’s God of War: Ragnarök and Spider-Man 2 as testing platforms (the Switch supports simpler surround formats). Channel balance is generally well-executed, with clear vocal reproduction and dialogue, precise audio placement, and surprisingly robust bass. In summary, the GNW10 functions as intended and provides a respectable audio experience. The GNW10 offers three DSP modes (FPS, RPG, and Voice), and PC users can access dedicated software for comprehensive EQ control and additional modes like Bio.
For online multiplayer gaming, the GNW10 incorporates dual microphones to capture your voice. AI processing, powered by Intelligo Technology, effectively isolates your voice from the game’s audio emanating from the nearby speakers, ensuring clear communication with teammates without excessive background noise. A mute button is also included for privacy. Activating the mute function illuminates the blue lights in red, indicating that you are safely disconnected from the audio feed.
While the GNW10 isn’t designed primarily for music playback, we did evaluate its performance in this area via console streaming. Certain music services offer tracks mixed in surround sound or tailored for surround playback, and the GNW10 delivers a reasonably acceptable experience with suitable source material. However, wearing speakers on your shoulders might feel unconventional when a dedicated front-facing speaker (in stereo, ideally) or, indeed, a pair of headphones, would be a more conventional alternative.
This raises a fundamental question: who is the target audience for the Panasonic GNW10 Sound Slayer? Despite its acceptable sound quality for its price and form factor, its niche positioning makes it challenging to define. In our view, gaming audio is typically experienced through either a dedicated full surround sound system or high-quality gaming headphones. The GNW10 attempts to bridge this gap but lacks the volume and fidelity of a dedicated home theater setup, while also lacking the noise isolation and privacy benefits of headphones. Furthermore, its price point of 3,500 kronor opens up access to a wide range of compelling gaming headsets.
The Panasonic GNW10 Sound Slayer’s price and niche nature make it difficult to recommend to a broad audience. If the concept resonates with you and you specifically wish to avoid traditional speakers or headphones (perhaps due to discomfort from heat), then this product might be a viable option. Panasonic should be commended for its innovative approach.
Panasonic provided review units for this evaluation. Provision of materials does not influence our editorial independence. Our reviews are always conducted independently, with our readers and consumers as our primary focus.
