Panasonic Introduces SoundSlayer SC-GN01 Around-The-Neck Wearable Speaker System

Every once in a while, the distant memory of the Sennheiser Surrounder Pro (1997) returns, whenever a new company decides to revive the around-the-neck collar speaker concept. This time, Panasonic unveiled its SC-GN01 Wearable Immersive Gaming Speaker System (WIGSS) targeting gamers and marketed as a wearable speaker system that offers "immersive play without sacrificing comfort". The new SoundSlayer SC-GN01 design isn't even wireless unlike most recent solutions in this form-factor.

audioXpress closely follows innovations in the truly wireless earbud space, because it simply is one of the most exciting categories in the audio industry right now. Within the headphones category, wireless earbuds are a fast-growing segment. But truly wireless earbuds can be much more. They are truly wearables, which can do a lot more when equipped with the latest connectivity and sensors. But let's forget for a moment the earbuds and focus more on the neckband and those around-the-neck designs.

There are many subtle ways a speaker designer can use the collar to “tune” the speaker-design for optimum response, added strength, increased thermal tolerance, better assembly fit, and more. Many materials are available for use as a collar but a careful understanding of the physical properties of these materials is required for optimum selection. Originally published by Voice Coil, May 2012.