The Audeze Maxwell stands out as a formidable contender in the gaming headset market, offering a compelling blend of premium audio fidelity, robust build quality, and versatile connectivity.

For serious gamers and audiophiles alike, the Maxwell delivers an immersive sound experience characterized by its planar magnetic drivers, which provide exceptional clarity, precise imaging, and deep, controlled bass.

While its price point places it in the upper echelon, the investment is justified by its superior sound reproduction, long-lasting battery life, and comfortable design, making it a top-tier choice for those seeking an uncompromised audio experience across multiple platforms. This headset isn’t just about hearing sounds.

It’s about experiencing the intricate soundscapes of your games and media with unparalleled detail.

Product Name	Key Feature	Connectivity	Price Range Approx.	Target Audience
Audeze Maxwell	Planar Magnetic Drivers	Wireless 2.4GHz & Bluetooth, USB-C	$300-$350	Hardcore Gamers, Audiophiles
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless	Multi-System Connectivity, ANC	Wireless 2.4GHz & Bluetooth, USB	$350-$400	Multi-Platform Gamers, Streamers
HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless	Incredible Battery Life up to 300 hours	Wireless 2.4GHz	$150-$200	Endurance Gamers, Value Seekers
Beyerdynamic TYGR 300 R	Open-Back Studio Sound	Wired 3.5mm	$180-$220	Audiophiles, PC Gamers for spacious sound
Sennheiser HD 660S2	Premium Hi-Fi Audiophile Headphones	Wired 3.5mm, 4.4mm balanced	$450-$500	Dedicated Audiophiles requires external amp
Logitech G Pro X Wireless	Blue VO!CE Microphone Technology	Wireless 2.4GHz	$180-$230	Competitive Gamers, Streamers
Turtle Beach Stealth Pro	Swappable Battery System, ANC	Wireless 2.4GHz & Bluetooth	$300-$330	Console Gamers, Convenience Seekers

0.0

0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews)

Excellent0%

Very good0%

Average0%

Poor0%

Terrible0%

There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.

Amazon.com: Check Amazon for Audeze Maxwell Review
Latest Discussions & Reviews:

Table of Contents

Unpacking the Audeze Maxwell: A Deep Dive into Planar Magnetic Prowess

Alright, let’s cut to the chase.

When you’re talking about the Audeze Maxwell, you’re not just discussing another gaming headset. This is a statement.

Audeze has carved out a reputation for pushing the boundaries of audio technology, primarily with their planar magnetic drivers, and the Maxwell brings that high-end pedigree into the gaming arena.

It’s a significant leap from traditional dynamic drivers you’ll find in most headsets.

Think of it like this: instead of a conventional cone speaker, you have a thin, ultra-light diaphragm suspended in a magnetic field. Duolingo Review

This design allows for incredibly precise sound reproduction, with a speed and accuracy that’s hard to match.

The Magic of Planar Magnetic Drivers

What does “planar magnetic” actually mean for your ears? In simple terms, it means unrivaled clarity and detail.

Faster Transient Response: Sounds start and stop almost instantaneously. This is crucial for competitive gaming where identifying footsteps or distant gunshots with pinpoint accuracy can be the difference between victory and defeat. You’ll notice subtle nuances in sound design that lesser headsets simply mush together.
Exceptional Bass Extension and Control: Unlike dynamic drivers that can sometimes sound boomy or flabby in the low end, planar magnetics deliver bass that’s deep, impactful, yet incredibly tight and controlled. Explosions have visceral force without overwhelming the rest of the soundstage.
Low Distortion: Because the entire diaphragm is driven uniformly, distortion is significantly reduced, even at higher volumes. This means your audio remains clean and crisp, no matter how intense the action gets.

This isn’t just marketing jargon.

It’s a fundamental difference that translates directly into a superior listening experience.

Beyond the Drivers: Built to Last

Audeze doesn’t just focus on internal tech. the Maxwell’s build quality is undeniably premium. Wyze Wi Fi 6E Mesh Router Pro Review

Robust Construction: You’ll find a sturdy steel headband and high-quality plastics that feel solid in the hand. This isn’t a headset that feels flimsy or like it’ll fall apart after a few accidental drops.
Comfort for Long Sessions: Despite the planar magnetic drivers adding a bit of weight, Audeze has done an admirable job with weight distribution and padding. The memory foam earcups are plush and provide excellent isolation, conforming well around the ears. The suspension strap also helps alleviate pressure on the top of your head, making those marathon gaming sessions much more comfortable.
Thoughtful Design Elements: The volume wheel is tactile and responsive, the mic mute button is easily accessible, and the overall aesthetic is sleek and understated, avoiding the flashy, “gamer” aesthetic some brands lean into.

This attention to detail in construction means the Maxwell isn’t just a performer.

It’s also a durable piece of gear designed to withstand the rigors of daily use.

Connectivity and Compatibility: A Universal Champion?

One of the Audeze Maxwell’s strongest suits is its versatile connectivity options. It’s clearly designed with the modern gamer in mind, someone who likely jumps between multiple platforms. This isn’t just a PC headset or a console-specific device. it aims to be your one-stop audio solution.

Wireless Freedom: 2.4GHz and Bluetooth

The Maxwell offers the best of both wireless worlds, making it incredibly flexible.

Ultra-Low Latency 2.4GHz Wireless: This is your go-to for gaming. The included USB-C dongle provides a rock-solid, low-latency connection that’s virtually indistinguishable from a wired connection. This is critical for competitive gaming where even milliseconds of delay can impact performance. It works seamlessly across PC, PlayStation, Xbox with the Xbox-specific version, and even Nintendo Switch.
Bluetooth 5.3 with LE Audio and LDAC: For mobile gaming, podcast listening on the go, or connecting to other Bluetooth-enabled devices, the Maxwell has you covered. The inclusion of Bluetooth 5.3 with LE Audio Low Energy Audio is a forward-looking feature, promising even better audio quality and lower power consumption as more devices adopt the standard. LDAC support is a huge win for Android users, allowing for high-resolution audio streaming over Bluetooth, a rarity in gaming headsets. This means your podcast will sound far better than with standard SBC or AAC codecs.
Simultaneous Wireless Modes: A massive convenience feature is the ability to simultaneously connect via 2.4GHz and Bluetooth. Imagine playing a game on your PC while taking a call on your phone, or listening to a podcast from your mobile device. The Maxwell handles this seamlessly, blending the audio sources. This eliminates the need to constantly switch headsets or juggle connections.

This combination of wireless technologies means you get uncompromising performance for gaming and high-fidelity audio for everything else, all from one device. Oneplus Nord Buds 2 Review

Wired Options: USB-C and 3.5mm Analog

While the wireless performance is stellar, Audeze also provides robust wired options.

USB-C Digital Audio: Connecting via USB-C to a PC or console provides a direct digital audio signal, bypassing any potential interference and ensuring the highest quality sound. It also charges the headset simultaneously.
3.5mm Analog Input: For devices that don’t support USB audio or for those who prefer a traditional wired connection, the 3.5mm jack is a welcome addition. This ensures maximum compatibility with older devices, portable media players, or even as a backup if the battery runs out though with 80+ hours, that’s unlikely to be a frequent occurrence.

The comprehensive suite of connectivity options truly makes the Maxwell a “set it and forget it” solution for almost any audio need.

Microphone Performance: Clarity for Communication

Let’s be honest, a gaming headset isn’t complete without a solid microphone.

You might have the best audio in the world, but if your teammates can’t understand you, it’s a problem.

Audeze has put significant effort into the Maxwell’s microphone array, and it shows. Retrocrush Review

Detachable Boom Mic with A.I. Noise Reduction

The primary communication tool on the Maxwell is its detachable boom microphone.

Clear and Natural Voice Pickup: The mic captures your voice with excellent clarity and a natural tone, avoiding the robotic or compressed sound often found in lesser headsets. This ensures your commands and callouts come through loud and clear.
A.I. Noise Reduction by FILTER: This is where the Maxwell truly stands out. Audeze has partnered with FILTER to integrate advanced AI-powered noise reduction. This technology intelligently filters out background noise – think keyboard clicks, mouse movements, air conditioning hum, or even a barking dog – while preserving the fidelity of your voice. In noisy environments, this feature is a must, ensuring your teammates hear you, not your environment.
Intuitive Controls: The mic can be easily muted via a dedicated button on the earcup, and there’s a clear LED indicator to show its status.

This combination of a high-quality mic capsule and sophisticated noise reduction makes the Maxwell a reliable tool for team communication, streaming, or even virtual meetings.

Integrated Internal Microphones

In addition to the boom mic, the Maxwell also features built-in internal microphones.

Convenience for Casual Use: When you’re out and about or just want to quickly answer a call without attaching the boom mic, these internal mics come in handy.
Decent Performance for Calls: While they won’t match the clarity of the boom mic, they’re perfectly adequate for phone calls or casual voice chat, offering surprising intelligibility given their discreet placement.
Secondary Noise Reduction: These internal mics also contribute to the overall noise reduction capabilities, working in conjunction with the AI processing to capture ambient sounds for cancellation.

The dual microphone setup offers flexibility, ensuring you always have a communication option, whether you’re at your desk or on the move.

Battery Life and Charging: Endurance for the Long Haul

One of the most impressive, almost ludicrous, specifications of the Audeze Maxwell is its battery life. In an era where most wireless gaming headsets boast 20-40 hours, the Maxwell pushes the boundaries dramatically. Tp Link Tapo Mini Smart Wi Fi Plug P125M Review

An Unbelievable 80+ Hours

Marathon Gaming Sessions? No Problem: Audeze claims “80+ hours” of battery life on a single charge, and user experiences confirm this is largely accurate. This is an incredible feat for a wireless headset, especially one driving planar magnetic drivers. It means you can go for days, potentially even weeks, of regular gaming without needing to plug in.
Peace of Mind: This kind of longevity practically eliminates battery anxiety. You’ll spend less time thinking about charging and more time immersed in your game. It’s a significant quality-of-life improvement for anyone who hates being tethered or running out of juice mid-session.
Real-World Usage: While “80+ hours” is the advertised figure, even with heavy use, higher volumes, and consistent mic use, you’re looking at well over 60 hours. This is still head and shoulders above the competition.

Rapid Charging via USB-C

When you do eventually need to charge, the Maxwell is designed for speed.

Quick Top-Ups: Thanks to USB-C fast charging, Audeze states you can get several hours of playback from just a 20-minute charge. This is perfect for those moments when you’ve forgotten to charge and need a quick boost before a gaming session.
Universal Standard: The use of USB-C for charging means you likely already have compatible cables lying around, adding to the convenience.

The combination of phenomenal battery life and rapid charging makes the Maxwell a truly reliable and convenient wireless companion, minimizing downtime and maximizing playtime.

Software and Customization: Personalizing Your Sound

While the Audeze Maxwell sounds fantastic out of the box, Audeze provides software to help you fine-tune the experience to your exact preferences.

This is where you can truly make the headset your own.

Audeze HQ App

The Audeze HQ app, available for PC, Mac, and mobile devices though the desktop version offers more robust features, is your control center for the Maxwell. Terramaster F2 223 Nas Review

Customizable EQ Presets: This is perhaps the most crucial feature for audiophiles and competitive gamers. The HQ app allows you to create and save multiple custom EQ profiles. Want more bass for single-player immersion? A flatter, analytical profile for competitive play? Or a tweaked mid-range for specific game genres? You can dial it in. The app also comes with several factory presets, such as “Audeze Signature,” “Immersive,” and “Competitive,” giving you a good starting point.
Sidetone/Mic Monitoring Control: Adjust how much of your own voice you hear through the headset. This prevents you from shouting and makes communication feel more natural.
Microphone Gain and Noise Reduction Adjustment: Fine-tune the microphone’s input level and adjust the intensity of the AI noise reduction, allowing you to optimize for your specific environment and voice.
Firmware Updates: The app is essential for keeping your Maxwell’s firmware up to date, ensuring you have the latest features, bug fixes, and performance improvements.
Battery Status Indicator: Easily monitor the remaining battery life of your headset.

The HQ app is straightforward and effective, providing the necessary tools without being overly complex or bloated.

It strikes a good balance between offering control and maintaining ease of use.

A Note on Multi-Platform EQ

One of the great advantages of the Maxwell is that EQ settings saved within the headset via the HQ app are stored on the headset itself. This means your custom sound profiles will work across all platforms – PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, and mobile – without needing the app open on each device. This cross-platform consistency is a significant benefit for users with multiple gaming systems.

The software isn’t about adding unnecessary bells and whistles.

It’s about empowering you to optimize the audio and microphone performance to perfectly suit your individual needs and the specific games or media you’re enjoying. Leica Noctilux M 50Mm F12 Asph Review

Gaming Performance: Immersion and Competitive Edge

Ultimately, for a gaming headset, performance in games is paramount.

The Audeze Maxwell, with its planar magnetic drivers, delivers an exceptional experience that caters to both immersive single-player adventures and demanding competitive multiplayer scenarios.

Unparalleled Soundstage and Imaging

This is where the Maxwell truly shines in gaming.

Expansive Soundstage: The headset creates a wide and open soundstage, making you feel truly immersed in the game world. Environmental sounds, distant explosions, and ambient podcast all have a sense of space and scale. It doesn’t sound like the audio is just coming from two cups directly on your ears. it feels like the sounds are originating from various points around you.
Pinpoint Accurate Imaging: Crucially for competitive play, the Maxwell’s imaging is incredibly precise. You can accurately pinpoint the direction and distance of sounds – footsteps to your left, gunshots from above, or an enemy reloading behind a wall. This level of spatial awareness provides a significant tactical advantage in games like Counter-Strike, Valorant, Call of Duty, or Apex Legends. You’re not just hearing sounds. you’re using them as critical intelligence.
Detail Retrieval: The resolution of the planar drivers means you pick up on subtle sound cues that other headsets might miss. The rustle of leaves, the creak of a floorboard, the distinct sound of different weapon types – these details contribute to both immersion and competitive insight.

The Impact of Bass on Gaming

While balanced sound is important, gaming often benefits from well-executed bass.

Impactful Explosions and Gunfire: The Maxwell delivers bass with authority. Explosions feel visceral and impactful, gunshots have a satisfying thud, and vehicle engines rumble authentically. Crucially, this low-end power doesn’t bleed into the mids or highs, maintaining clarity across the frequency spectrum.
Subtle Low-End Cues: Beyond the obvious booms, the Maxwell’s controlled bass also helps you discern subtle low-frequency cues, like the heavy footsteps of a boss monster or the distant thrum of machinery, adding to the atmosphere and helping you anticipate threats.

Value Proposition: Is the Maxwell Worth the Investment?

The Audeze Maxwell isn’t a budget headset. Its price point places it firmly in the premium category. So, the burning question is: is it worth the investment? For the right user, the answer is a resounding yes. Nokia 2780 Flip Review

Who is the Maxwell For?

Serious Gamers and Audiophiles: If you prioritize audio fidelity above all else, and you want a headset that can pull double duty for both gaming and serious podcast listening, the Maxwell is an exceptional choice. The planar magnetic drivers genuinely offer a step up in sound quality.
Multi-Platform Users: The extensive connectivity options – 2.4GHz for consoles and PC, Bluetooth for mobile, and wired options – make it incredibly versatile for anyone who plays across different systems.
Competitive Players: The precise imaging and soundstage provide a clear competitive advantage by helping you locate enemies and crucial sound cues with unparalleled accuracy.
Users Seeking Longevity: The robust build quality and the ridiculous 80+ hour battery life mean this headset is built to last and will rarely leave you stranded without power.
Those Who Value Microphone Clarity: The AI noise-reduction on the mic is a significant feature for clear communication in any environment.

Where Does it Stand Against the Competition?

While the Maxwell has a higher price tag than many popular gaming headsets, it competes directly with other premium offerings like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless and the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro.

Audio Quality: The Maxwell generally has an edge in pure audio fidelity due to its planar magnetic drivers, offering a more detailed, expansive, and controlled sound profile.
Battery Life: The Maxwell’s 80+ hours obliterates most competitors, which typically offer 20-40 hours.
Microphone: The AI noise reduction is a strong selling point for the Maxwell’s mic, often outperforming competitors in noisy environments.
Comfort: While subjective, the Maxwell is generally considered very comfortable for long sessions, though its weight might be a factor for some.

The value comes from the intersection of its premium audio performance, unparalleled battery life, versatile connectivity, and robust build quality. It’s an investment that pays off in a superior daily user experience. If your budget allows, and you demand the best, the Audeze Maxwell delivers. It’s not just a gaming peripheral. it’s a high-performance audio device that happens to be fantastic for gaming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Audeze Maxwell good for competitive gaming?

Yes, the Audeze Maxwell is excellent for competitive gaming.

Its planar magnetic drivers provide exceptional soundstage and imaging, allowing for pinpoint accurate positional audio, which is crucial for identifying enemy footsteps and other sound cues. Msi Prestige 13 Evo Review

Does the Audeze Maxwell work with Xbox and PlayStation?

Yes, there are specific versions of the Audeze Maxwell for Xbox and PlayStation.

The Xbox version is compatible with Xbox, PC, Mac, and mobile, while the PlayStation version works with PlayStation, PC, Mac, and mobile. Both offer the same core features and performance.

How long does the Audeze Maxwell battery last?

The Audeze Maxwell boasts an impressive battery life of over 80 hours on a single charge, making it one of the longest-lasting wireless gaming headsets available.

Is the Audeze Maxwell comfortable for long gaming sessions?

Yes, despite its slightly heavier build due to the planar magnetic drivers, the Audeze Maxwell is designed for comfort during long gaming sessions, featuring plush memory foam earcups and a suspension head strap for even weight distribution.

What is the difference between planar magnetic and dynamic drivers?

Planar magnetic drivers use a thin, flat diaphragm suspended in a magnetic field, which is driven uniformly. Kobo Elipsa 2E Review

This results in faster transient response, lower distortion, and superior bass control compared to traditional dynamic drivers that use a voice coil and cone.

Does the Audeze Maxwell have active noise cancellation ANC?

No, the Audeze Maxwell does not feature active noise cancellation ANC. It relies on its excellent passive noise isolation provided by the memory foam earcups.

Can I use the Audeze Maxwell wired?

Yes, the Audeze Maxwell can be used wired via USB-C for digital audio or via a 3.5mm analog connection for broader compatibility.

Does the Audeze Maxwell have Bluetooth?

Yes, the Audeze Maxwell features Bluetooth 5.3 with support for advanced codecs like LDAC and LE Audio, allowing for high-quality wireless audio streaming from mobile devices and other Bluetooth sources.

Can I use the Audeze Maxwell for podcast listening?

Absolutely. Yaber Pico T1 Review

Due to its high-fidelity planar magnetic drivers and support for high-resolution Bluetooth codecs like LDAC, the Audeze Maxwell is an excellent choice for podcast listening, offering detailed and immersive audio.

Is the microphone on the Audeze Maxwell good?

Yes, the Audeze Maxwell features a high-quality detachable boom microphone with advanced AI noise reduction technology FILTER that effectively filters out background noise, ensuring clear and natural voice communication.

Does the Audeze Maxwell have sidetone mic monitoring?

Yes, the Audeze Maxwell supports sidetone, allowing you to hear your own voice through the headset.

This feature can be adjusted or turned off via the Audeze HQ software.

What is the Audeze HQ app used for?

The Audeze HQ app for PC, Mac, and mobile allows users to customize various settings for the Maxwell, including creating custom EQ profiles, adjusting microphone gain and noise reduction, controlling sidetone, and updating firmware. Oneplus Pad Review

Are the EQ settings saved on the headset itself?

Yes, any custom EQ profiles you create and save using the Audeze HQ app are stored directly on the Audeze Maxwell headset, meaning your personalized sound settings will work across all compatible platforms without needing the app open.

How heavy is the Audeze Maxwell?

The Audeze Maxwell weighs approximately 490 grams around 1.08 lbs. While heavier than some dynamic driver headsets, its design aims to distribute the weight comfortably.

What platforms is the Audeze Maxwell compatible with?

The PlayStation version is compatible with PlayStation, PC, Mac, and mobile.

The Xbox version is compatible with Xbox, PC, Mac, and mobile.

Both work with Nintendo Switch via the 2.4GHz dongle. Corsair Mp600 Core Xt Review

Does the Audeze Maxwell come with a carrying case?

No, the Audeze Maxwell typically does not come with a dedicated hard-shell carrying case. It usually includes a soft pouch for protection.

How does the Audeze Maxwell compare to the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless?

The Audeze Maxwell generally offers superior raw audio fidelity due to its planar magnetic drivers and boasts significantly longer battery life.

The Arctis Nova Pro Wireless, however, offers features like swappable batteries, ANC, and a dedicated GameDAC.

Is the Audeze Maxwell worth the price?

For audiophiles and serious gamers who prioritize high-fidelity sound, exceptional battery life, versatile connectivity, and a clear microphone, the Audeze Maxwell offers excellent value and is considered a worthwhile premium investment.

Can I replace the ear pads on the Audeze Maxwell?

Yes, the ear pads on the Audeze Maxwell are replaceable, allowing for easy cleaning or future upgrades to different materials if desired. Asus Zenbook S 13 Oled 2023 Review

Does the Audeze Maxwell have virtual surround sound?

The Audeze Maxwell supports spatial audio solutions offered by platforms like Tempest 3D Audio on PlayStation 5, Windows Sonic, and Dolby Atmos Dolby Atmos requires a separate license purchase. It doesn’t have its own proprietary virtual surround sound processing.

What is the range of the wireless connection?

The 2.4GHz wireless connection of the Audeze Maxwell typically offers a range of up to 12 meters around 40 feet, which can vary depending on environmental factors and obstacles.

Does the Audeze Maxwell charge via USB-C?

Yes, the Audeze Maxwell charges via a USB-C connection, and it supports rapid charging for quick top-ups.

Can I use the Audeze Maxwell with a Nintendo Switch?

Yes, you can use the Audeze Maxwell with a Nintendo Switch via the included 2.4GHz USB-C dongle.

How does the AI noise reduction on the mic work?

The AI noise reduction feature on the Audeze Maxwell’s microphone powered by FILTER uses artificial intelligence algorithms to analyze incoming audio, distinguish between your voice and background noise, and then suppress the noise in real-time, delivering clearer communication. Lenovo Slim Pro 7 Gen 8 2023 Review

Is there a significant difference in sound quality between wired and wireless?

While a wired connection via USB-C might technically offer the most stable digital signal, the 2.4GHz wireless connection of the Maxwell is designed for ultra-low latency and high fidelity, making any practical difference in sound quality negligible for most users during gaming.

Can the Audeze Maxwell connect to two devices simultaneously?

Yes, the Audeze Maxwell can connect to two devices simultaneously by using its 2.4GHz wireless dongle for one device e.g., PC or console and Bluetooth for another e.g., mobile phone.

What kind of magnet material does Audeze use in the Maxwell?

Audeze utilizes powerful Neodymium N50 magnets in the Maxwell’s planar magnetic drivers to achieve their high-performance audio characteristics.

Is the microphone detachable?

Yes, the primary boom microphone on the Audeze Maxwell is detachable, allowing you to remove it when not needed or when using the headset solely for podcast listening.

Does the Audeze Maxwell have an auto-off feature?

Yes, the Audeze Maxwell typically includes an adjustable auto-off feature that powers down the headset after a period of inactivity to conserve battery life.

How does the Audeze Maxwell handle high volume levels?

Thanks to its planar magnetic drivers and low distortion design, the Audeze Maxwell handles high volume levels exceptionally well, maintaining clarity and detail without significant audio degradation or harshness.

Audeze Maxwell Review