Audeze’s Maxwell 2 is a premium wireless gaming headset available now in PlayStation and Xbox versions. Announced on January 5, 2026, it keeps the original Maxwell’s 90 mm planar-magnetic drivers but adds Audeze’s SLAM acoustic-management system, a redesigned strap and earpads, broader Bluetooth support, updated software and improved microphone noise removal.
The important qualification is that Maxwell 2’s headline improvements are refinements rather than a complete reinvention. Reviews broadly support better imaging, separation and low-frequency definition, but the headset remains very heavy at 560 g, costs $329 for PlayStation or $349 for Xbox at launch, and does not include listener-side active noise cancellation.
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What is the Audeze Maxwell 2?
Maxwell 2 is Audeze’s premium wireless gaming headset for PlayStation, Xbox, PC, Mac, Nintendo Switch and mobile devices. It combines low-latency wireless through an included USB-C dongle with Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C digital audio and a 3.5 mm TRRS analog connection.
The PlayStation model launched at $329, while the Xbox version launched at $349. The Xbox model costs more because it supports Xbox Wireless and includes Dolby Atmos licensing; it is not simply a better-sounding physical headset. Regional pricing and availability can change, so check the official Audeze product page before buying.
#1 Best Overall
- 80 hours of battery life*
- NEW: Patent-pending SLAM technology (like from our LCD-S20 and CRBN2 models), which produces heightened spatial immersion and precision along with punchier bass response.
- Bluetooth 5.3 technology including LE Audio and LDAC for versatile connectivity with mobile devices.
- AuraCast support for multi-point connection with compatible devices
- Simultaneous USB Audio (wired) and Bluetooth AND Simultaneous AUX Audio (wired) and Bluetooth
There is also a separate Maxwell 2 ANC product. Do not confuse it with the standard Maxwell 2: active noise cancellation and head tracking belong to that separate model, not the standard headset covered here.
SLAM improves control more reliably than it increases bass
The biggest acoustic change is Audeze’s SLAM system. It is designed to manage the air pressure behind the planar drivers, improving the way the headset handles low frequencies.
Audeze describes the result as better spatial immersion, precision and bass response. In back-to-back testing, PC Gamer found more definition in very low frequencies and less of the original Maxwell’s closed-in character with loud, bass-heavy material. Tom’s Guide found the bass fuller and richer, while citing Audeze’s claim of up to 6 dB more bass volume.
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Spatial audio: better imaging, but no universal built-in format
The planar drivers, separation and closed-back design can make positional information easier to follow. That is especially useful in competitive games, where footsteps, reloads and environmental sounds need to remain distinct.
Rank #2
- 80 hours of battery life*
- NEW: Patent-pending SLAM technology (like from our LCD-S20 and CRBN2 models), which produces heightened spatial immersion and precision along with punchier bass response.
- Bluetooth 5.3 technology including LE Audio and LDAC for versatile connectivity with mobile devices.
- AuraCast support for multi-point connection with compatible devices (currently Andriod)
- Simultaneous USB Audio (wired) and Bluetooth AND Simultaneous AUX Audio (wired) and Bluetooth
However, Maxwell 2 is not itself a universal spatial-audio renderer. The Xbox version includes Dolby Atmos licensing, while the PlayStation model is designed for the PlayStation ecosystem and Tempest 3D AudioTech. On PC, Mac and Linux, spatial processing depends on the operating system, game or separately purchased software. The headset improves the foundation for positional listening; the source platform supplies much of the spatial processing.
AI microphone noise removal is not ANC
Maxwell 2 includes a detachable hypercardioid boom microphone, internal beamforming microphones and Audeze’s FILTER AI Noise Removal. The processing runs on an integrated chip and works with both the boom and internal microphones. Audeze says its model was trained on more than 500,000 types of sounds.
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This is microphone-side noise removal, not active noise cancellation for the listener. Standard Maxwell 2 uses closed-back earcups and passive isolation, but it does not electronically cancel outside sound.
Comfort and controls remain divisive
Audeze redesigned the suspension strap to be wider and ventilated, and the new earpads provide more internal space. Tom’s Guide reported comfortable sessions lasting more than six hours, while Windows Central described the new fit as a major improvement over the first generation.
Rank #3
- Pro Gaming Headset: Based on the award-winning PRO X Gaming Headset, the new PRO X 2 was collaboratively designed with and for pro gamers to help them win
- Clear Audio: 50mm Graphene drivers provide clear and immersive audio with low distortion—capturing the entire soundscape of the game with audio cues like footsteps and actions
- Long Battery Life and Range: Equipped with pro-grade Logitech LIGHTSPEED wireless technology, with up to 50 hours of battery life (2) and up to 30m of 2.4 GHz wireless range (2)
- Comfortable: These noise isolating headphones have rotating durable hinge and rotating soft memory foam earpads—available in leatherette or breathable velour
- Connectivity: LIGHTSPEED wireless, Bluetooth and 3.5mm Aux Cord for connectivity options; USB-A to USB-C cable, USB-A Dongle with 3.5mm port, 3.5mm audio cable included
But Maxwell 2 weighs approximately 560 g, compared with about 490 g for the original Maxwell. PC Gamer found that extra mass noticeable and reported head and jaw discomfort after several hours. The large construction can also create heat or pressure depending on head shape, glasses and ear-pad fit. It does not rotate fully flat for travel.
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The controls are another compromise. The power and microphone controls are recessed and can be harder to locate quickly than those on the original headset. The mute switch is on the right ear cup; according to Audeze’s documentation, the upper position is Mute On and the lower position is Mute Off.
Battery life and connectivity
Audeze rates the 1,800 mAh lithium-polymer battery for more than 80 hours of wireless playback at its stated 80 dBA test condition. It also supports USB-C fast charging: Audeze says a 20-minute charge can provide 25% capacity with a 5 V, 1.8 A maximum input, while a full charge takes approximately two hours.
That 80-hour figure is a manufacturer rating, not a guarantee for every volume level, codec, microphone setting or wireless mode. Bluetooth, dongle use and sidetone can affect actual runtime.
Wireless features include a low-latency USB-C dongle, Bluetooth 5.3, multipoint and support listed by Audeze for LDAC, LE Audio, LC3, LC3plus, AAC and SBC. USB-C digital audio supports dual audio endpoints and game/chat mixing. The headset also includes a 3.5 mm analog connection.
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- AUDEZE MAXWELL WIRELESS GAMING HEADSET FOR PLAYSTATION, MAC, PC, AND SWITCH - 80AND
Multipoint does not mean unlimited simultaneous-source control. PC Gamer noted that switching between active wireless sources can be inconvenient in some configurations, particularly when Bluetooth is enabled. Users expecting seamless mixing between a console dongle, PC, phone and Bluetooth device should check the source-priority behavior before buying.
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| Area | Original Maxwell | Maxwell 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Acoustic system | Original planar-magnetic design | Adds SLAM acoustic management |
| Drivers | 90 mm planar magnetic | 90 mm planar magnetic |
| Weight | About 490 g | 560 g |
| Head strap | Narrower, non-ventilated design | Wider, ventilated suspension strap |
| Bass | Controlled planar presentation | More low-frequency definition and pressure management claimed |
| Microphone | Earlier FILTER system | Updated FILTER AI Noise Removal |
| Bluetooth | Earlier-generation support | Bluetooth 5.3 with expanded codec support |
| Software | Earlier companion software | Updated app, EQ and preset workflow |
| Ear cups | Magnetic, replaceable components | Retains magnetic ear-cup attachment |
Who should buy Maxwell 2?
Maxwell 2 is a strong fit for gamers who value detailed imaging, separation and music-quality sound more than a lightweight design. Its long battery rating, wired options, detachable boom and useful microphone processing also suit people who want one headset for gaming, films, music and voice chat.
It is a weaker choice for buyers who want a light headset, aggressive physical bass, true listener-side ANC or a travel-friendly folding design. Streamers should also remember that High AI suppression can alter voice quality; a quiet room, the unprocessed boom and a dedicated microphone may sound more natural.
Which version should you choose?
- Choose PlayStation if PlayStation is your main console and you want the PlayStation-oriented dongle and Tempest 3D ecosystem.
- Choose Xbox if Xbox Wireless support and included Dolby Atmos licensing matter to you.
- Choose based on price and software for PC-only use. Neither console version automatically provides every spatial-audio feature on every operating system.
- Consider Maxwell 2 ANC separately only if active noise cancellation, transparency features or head tracking are priorities.
Before judging performance, update the headset, wireless dongle and companion app. Firmware can affect connectivity, microphone behavior, equalization and stability. Also use the return period to test the fit: the redesigned strap may distribute weight better, but it cannot remove the underlying 560 g mass.
Verdict
Maxwell 2 is a refinement aimed at sound quality, imaging, microphone cleanup and comfort—not a wholesale reinvention. Its strongest improvements are cleaner spatial detail, more controlled low frequencies and better outgoing-noise suppression. Its biggest liabilities remain its weight, premium price, fiddly controls and bass that is refined rather than overwhelmingly physical.
For audiophile-minded gamers who can tolerate a heavy headset, Maxwell 2 is a compelling upgrade path. Original Maxwell owners should upgrade mainly for SLAM, microphone processing, connectivity and fit changes—not because every game will suddenly sound radically different.
Sources: Audeze specifications, Audeze microphone guide, Audeze getting-started guide, PC Gamer review, Tom’s Guide review, Windows Central and TechRadar.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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