In 2023, Audeze introduced the Maxwell, a high-end gaming headset based on the technology used in their renowned pro-audio and hi-fi headphone range. Its successor has just arrived in the form of the Maxwell 2, and promises to deliver even better audio performance along with some handy new features.
The new and improved design employs a pair of 90mm planar magnetic drivers that are said to offer a more precise sound with improved spatial immersion, while the low-end performance is bolstered by Audeze’s SLAM technology. Voice clarity has also seen an improvement courtesy of some new onboard processing that used AI-based noise removal to target background noise, while a new ventilated head strap and updated earpad design help to ensure comfort over long sessions.
As you’d imagine, the new version of the headset maintains or improves upon the technical performance of its predecessor, offering support for 24-bit/96kHz audio via a low-latency wireless USB-C dongle, as well as support for a range of Bluetooth-based wireless protocols. Wired analogue and digital options are provided by USB-C and 3.5mm connections respectively.
Tech Specs
Audio
- Style: Over-ear, closed-back
- Transducer type: Planar Magnetic
- Magnetic structure: Fluxor magnet array
- Phase management: Fazor
- Acoustic management: SLAM
- Magnet type: Neodymium N50
- Diaphragm type: Uniforce
- Transducer size: 90 mm
- Maximum SPL: >115dB
- Frequency response: 10Hz - 50kHz
- THD: <0.1% @ 100dB
- Spatial Audio: Dolby Atmos (Xbox Version) / Tempest 3D (PlayStation Version)
- Weight: 490g
Microphones
- Boom Microphone: Detachable, Hypercardioid
- Beamforming: Physical and AI noise reduction, Internal mic for chat
Power
- Battery type: Lithium-polymer, 1800mAh
- Battery life: Over 80 hours wireless playback @ 80dBA
- Fast charge: USB-C, 5V 1.8A max — 25% charge in 20 minutes, full charge in two hours)
Connection
- Wireless: USB-C dongle, Ultra-low-latency
- Bluetooth: 5.3: Supports: Auracast, LE Audio, LC3, LC3plus, LDAC, AAC, SBC, Multipoint
- Wired Digital: USB-C with dual-audio endpoints and game/chat mix
- Wired Analogue: 3.5mm TRRS active
Compatibility
There are two versions of the Maxwell 2. One is compatible with PlayStation, Mac, mobile devices and PCs (but with no Dolby Atmos support), while the other has been designed for Xbox, Mac, mobile devices and PCs (with Dolby Atmos included as standard).
Pricing & Availability
The Maxwell 2 is available now, priced at $329£339 for the PlayStation version, and $349£369 for the Xbox version. Prices include VAT.
