Audeze Maxwell 2 Review: A Premium Headset, But Not a Major Upgrade
▼ Summary
– The Audeze Maxwell 2 delivers exceptional, audiophile-grade sound quality, superior to most gaming headsets, largely due to its 90mm planar magnetic drivers and SLAM technology.
– However, the headset is very heavy at 490g, which may cause discomfort during long sessions despite design features like a wider headband for weight distribution.
– Its AI-powered microphone noise cancellation performs poorly with apps like Discord, and it lacks simultaneous 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth connectivity.
– The Maxwell Gen 2 offers premium build quality and materials but provides no single must-have upgrade over the still-available and cheaper Gen 1 model.
– With an 80-hour battery life and a high price of around $350, it is best for users who prioritize unparalleled sound over features, weight, or value compared to the previous generation.
Finding a gaming headset that delivers truly exceptional sound is a rare achievement, and the Audeze Maxwell 2 unquestionably meets that high bar. Its audio performance stands in a league of its own, powered by massive 90mm planar magnetic drivers that produce a rich, detailed, and emotionally resonant soundscape. However, this premium headset faces a unique dilemma: its own predecessor. The original Maxwell model, now available at a significantly lower price, offers fundamentally the same stellar core audio experience. This puts the Gen 2 version in a tough spot, as its iterative upgrades may not feel substantial enough to justify the higher cost for many buyers.
Audeze has built its reputation on audiophile-grade equipment, and that engineering philosophy is fully present here. The moment you put these headphones on, the quality is apparent. The build is robust and luxurious, with a brushed metal finish, plush memory foam cushions, and a design that feels more like high-end studio gear than a typical gaming peripheral. The sheer weight of the headset, at 17.2 ounces, is its most noticeable physical trait. While the redesigned headband does a commendable job distributing that heft, it’s impossible to ignore during long sessions, and the firm clamping force could become bothersome in warmer environments.
Where the Maxwell 2 truly excels is in its sonic delivery. The sound signature is nothing short of spectacular. Bass response is powerful and precise, offering impactful lows that never muddy the mids or highs. Vocals sound natural and lifelike, while the high-end frequencies are crisp and clear. The implementation of Audeze’s SLAM acoustic technology reportedly enhances spatial immersion and bass punch, and listening to well-mastered music or immersive game audio provides a genuinely breathtaking experience. The 80-hour battery life is also a massive practical win, eliminating constant charging anxiety.
Yet, for all its acoustic brilliance, the headset shows some cracks in its feature set. The AI-powered noise cancellation on the detachable microphone can be problematic, particularly when used with apps like Discord, where it may create a muffled effect. The inability to use simultaneous Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless connections is a notable omission at this price point, as competitors offer this convenience. You can pair Bluetooth alongside a wired connection, but not with the wireless dongle.
This leads to the central purchasing conundrum. The Audeze Maxwell 2 is an outstanding piece of audio hardware that delivers on its promise of elite sound. However, the first-generation Maxwell model provides nearly identical core performance for about a hundred dollars less. The Gen 2’s improvements, a wider headband, redesigned controls, and SLAM tuning, are welcome but feel incremental rather than revolutionary. For an audiophile who must have the absolute best and latest, the Maxwell 2 is a worthy investment. For the savvy shopper focused on value, seeking flawless microphone performance, or needing simultaneous wireless connections, the older model or competing headsets like the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro or SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless may represent a more compelling choice.
(Source: TechRadar)
