Our verdict: SteelSeries GG is worth installing for Sonar alone: a free virtual mixer that splits game, chat, media and mic into separate channels with their own EQ and presets, and it works with any headset. The app bundles a lot more, including gear setup, clip capture and an aim trainer, so it is heavier than a simple equalizer. Sonar works only on Windows.
About SteelSeries GG
SteelSeries GG is the Danish gaming hardware maker's desktop app. It combines Engine for SteelSeries devices (lighting, macros, firmware updates), Sonar for audio, Moments for capturing and sharing gameplay clips, and 3D Aim Trainer. Sonar, Moments and the aim trainer also work without any SteelSeries gear.
Sonar sets up virtual audio devices for game, chat, media, aux and microphone, each with its own volume and equalizer. You route apps to these channels by drag and drop, balance game and chat with ChatMix, load pro and community presets, reduce mic noise and add spatial audio. The app is free.
What it does well
- Sonar mixer. Separate volume and EQ for game, chat, media, aux and mic in one place.
- App routing. Drag and drop apps such as Discord or Spotify onto specific audio channels.
- Presets. More than 200 pro presets and community presets for games, chat and media.
- Mic clean-up. Noise reduction and optimization for any microphone, plus spatial audio for headsets.
- Moments and Engine. Capture and share game clips, and configure SteelSeries mice, keyboards and headsets.
Who it is for
Good fit
PC gamers who want separate game and chat volume, EQ presets and a cleaner mic with any headset.
Look elsewhere
Users who only want a lightweight system-wide equalizer, or Mac users looking for Sonar.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free Sonar mixer for any headset
- Per-channel EQ with ready-made presets
- Mic noise reduction included
- Works without SteelSeries hardware
Cons
- Large all-in-one app with many unrelated modules
- Sonar is Windows-only
- Adds several virtual audio devices to Windows
How to install SteelSeries GG
Download the Windows installer with the Free Download button on the official SteelSeries GG page. After installing, turn on Sonar in Settings under GG Services and run its setup wizard to pick your game, chat, media and mic devices. Disable modules you don't use, such as Moments, in the same settings.
Questions about SteelSeries GG
Is SteelSeries GG free?
Yes. SteelSeries GG, including Sonar, Moments and Engine, is a free download for Windows.
Do I need a SteelSeries headset for Sonar?
No. Sonar works with any headset and any microphone; SteelSeries headsets only add device-specific settings.
Does Sonar work on Xbox or PlayStation?
No. Sonar is a PC app that runs on Windows.
