The original Audeze Maxwell remains one of the best-sounding wireless gaming headsets you can buy—especially for listeners who also play music and cinematic games. Its 90 mm planar-magnetic drivers deliver unusually clean bass, revealing mids and convincing detail, while the low-latency dongle and huge battery make it practical at a desk.
That praise has important limits. At approximately 490 g, the Maxwell is exceptionally heavy, it has no active noise cancellation, console compatibility is split between PlayStation and Xbox versions, and Audeze now lists it as a legacy product. As of August 18, 2026, Maxwell 2 is the current model, so the original makes sense only at a substantial discount or when its particular feature mix suits you.
Quick verdict
| Category | Assessment |
|---|---|
| Sound | Exceptional for a wireless gaming headset; among the strongest choices for music, films and detailed game audio. |
| Microphone | Very good detachable boom, with placement-dependent sibilance and no claim to studio quality. |
| Battery | Excellent: Audeze rates more than 80 hours at 80 dBA; SoundGuys measured more than 64 hours. |
| Wireless | Flexible and low-latency through the proprietary dongle, but console versions are not interchangeable. |
| Comfort | Mixed. The suspension band and large pads help, but 490 g can become tiring and stability is limited during movement. |
| Noise cancellation | No ANC; isolation comes from the closed-back seal and clamp. |
| Buy today? | Only if a reputable seller offers a meaningful discount versus Maxwell 2 and you select the correct platform version. |
Audeze markets the Maxwell with “unrivaled” audio language, but independent testing supports a more useful conclusion: it is exceptionally capable among wireless gaming headsets, not automatically superior to every wired, open-back or newer premium design. Audeze product page · RTINGS review
Sound quality: why the Maxwell still stands out
Balanced, powerful tuning
The default presentation is broadly balanced rather than an exaggerated “gaming” V-shape. Bass extends deep, hits with authority and stays controlled when explosions, music and ambience overlap. Dialogue and vocals remain intelligible in the midrange, while treble retrieves small effects such as shell casings, room reflections and distant movement.
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#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
Fit matters. A complete ear-pad seal strengthens bass and passive isolation; glasses, hair, head shape and worn pads can change the result. Adjust the suspension strap and ear-cup position before judging the tuning. Depending on the recording, fit and volume, upper treble can sound sharp or expose sibilance. EQ is available if you prefer a warmer, smoother or more competitive balance.
What the planar drivers contribute
Audeze uses 90 mm planar-magnetic drivers with Uniforce voice coils, Fluxor magnets and Fazor waveguides. Planar construction is not proof that every listener will prefer the Maxwell, but in use it helps explain the headset’s low-distortion, well-separated presentation. Busy scenes retain layers instead of collapsing into a congested thump, and moderate-volume listening remains detailed.
Games, music and films
In games, footsteps, reloads, environmental effects and distant ambience are easy to follow without sacrificing impact. Films benefit from the controlled low end and clear dialogue. Music is a particular strength compared with ordinary dynamic-driver gaming headsets: bass lines have texture, vocals are present and instruments remain distinct.
Do not expect an open-back or speaker-like stage. This is a closed-back wireless headset, so the presentation is more intimate than genuinely wide. Positional cues are generally strong, but RTINGS found driver phase mismatch that can affect object placement in the stereo image. That makes the Maxwell highly capable, not flawless, for competitive imaging. RTINGS measurements and review
Spatial audio and EQ
Use the game’s or platform’s spatial processing when it improves front-back placement and immersion; it can also make the presentation softer or less precise depending on the title. The Xbox Maxwell includes a Dolby Atmos license, while the PlayStation version supports Tempest 3D. Audeze HQ provides presets and user-defined EQ profiles, so save the original settings before experimenting. Audeze software information
Wireless, wired and Bluetooth modes
- Proprietary dongle: The preferred mode for serious gaming. It is designed for low latency and carries game audio and platform chat where supported. It is low enough for normal gaming, not literally zero latency. Audeze discusses measurement methodology here.
- Bluetooth 5.3: Convenient for phones and general listening. Audeze lists LDAC, AAC, SBC, LE Audio, LC3 and LC3plus, but the codec actually used depends on the source device, operating system and application. Treat Bluetooth as a convenience mode unless your device offers a suitable low-latency implementation.
- USB-C: Digital wired audio supports up to 24-bit/96 kHz according to Audeze. This is useful at a PC and for firmware management.
- 3.5 mm analog: The universal fallback for devices that cannot use the dongle. Some controls, chat functions and spatial features may be unavailable.
The user guide specifies the dongle’s PC mode for PCs, Macs, Steam Decks, Nintendo Switch and other non-Xbox/non-PlayStation devices. Maxwell user guide
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
Choose the correct console version
PlayStation version
Choose it for PlayStation and PC. It is not a full wireless Xbox solution: the PlayStation model will not work with Xbox over low-latency wireless or USB because the hardware, firmware and licensing differ.
Xbox version
Choose it for Xbox and PC. It includes the embedded Dolby Atmos license identified by Audeze. Do not assume its Xbox wireless functionality transfers fully to PlayStation.
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Using both consoles
Both variants can feed other hardware through the 3.5 mm connection, but analog compatibility is not equivalent to full wireless support. If you own both consoles, select the one that matters most and accept the feature limitations on the other. Confirm the exact variant, condition and return policy before buying. Audeze compatibility information
Battery and charging
Audeze rates the Maxwell for more than 80 hours of wireless playback at an 80 dBA reference level. With a compatible 1.8 A charger, the user guide claims roughly 20–30 hours from a 20-minute charge. SoundGuys measured more than 64 hours of continuous playback—below the manufacturer figure but still exceptional. Volume, microphone use, EQ, wireless mode and other settings change real-world results, and 80 dBA is a test reference rather than a recommended listening level. Audeze user guide · SoundGuys testing
Comfort, fit and build
The approximately 490 g weight is the Maxwell’s defining compromise. The suspension headband spreads pressure, and the over-ear pads can accommodate many ears, but the headset remains bulky. Heat builds during long sessions, clamp pressure varies by head shape, and glasses can break the seal. RTINGS also found limited stability during moderate movement. A desk-bound player may tolerate it for several hours; someone seeking effortless all-day wear, exercise use or frequent walking should be cautious. RTINGS comfort findings
A good seal improves bass and isolation but can increase warmth and pressure. Try the headset with your glasses, hairstyle and normal posture rather than judging fit for a few minutes in an ideal setup.
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- 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
Microphone performance
The detachable hypercardioid boom is the main microphone, supported by an internal microphone and beamforming/noise-reduction system. RTINGS rated the boom highly, including in noisy conditions. SoundGuys found clear communication but noted prominent “s” and “sh” sounds in its sample; moving the boom slightly farther from the mouth can change plosives and sibilance.
- Use the boom for Discord, party chat and game chat when voice clarity matters.
- The internal microphone is a fallback when the boom is removed, not a replacement for it.
- Physical mute and sidetone controls make everyday use practical; check the guide for the exact button combinations.
- Noise filtering reduces background sound for callers, but it is microphone processing—not active noise cancellation for your ears.
It is a strong headset microphone, not a substitute for a dedicated USB microphone. Audeze specifications · SoundGuys microphone notes
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Controls, software and firmware
Physical controls cover master volume, game/chat balance, microphone volume or sidetone, noise-reduction behavior, mute, power and source selection. Exact combinations vary by platform, so use the official guide rather than relying on a remembered shortcut.
Maxwell 1 uses the legacy Audeze HQ software, not the newer app intended for current products. HQ handles firmware, EQ presets, custom profiles and headset configuration. Firmware updates may require a PC or Mac, and the dongle and headset are updated separately. Audeze’s sequence is to connect and update the dongle first, then connect the headset by USB and select the headset update. Firmware instructions
If the dongle will not pair
Try normal power and source checks first. Re-pair only when those fail, following the procedure for your firmware:
- Firmware 1.0.1.46 or lower: hold the noise-reduction button while triple-tapping power.
- Firmware v49 or higher: put the dongle in pairing mode, then triple-tap the headset’s power button.
The dongle’s pairing button may require a paperclip. Verify that both devices have current firmware before repeating the process.
Rank #4
- AUDEZE MAXWELL WIRELESS GAMING HEADSET FOR PLAYSTATION, MAC, PC, AND SWITCH - 80AND
Game/chat limitations
Platforms without two simultaneous audio outputs, including PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch, may require manual game/chat adjustment in system settings. The guide documents those platform-specific limits. Audeze user guide
Isolation and the missing ANC feature
The closed-back cups, pads and clamp provide passive isolation, but the Maxwell has no active noise cancellation. That is acceptable in a quiet room and can help with fans, yet it is a disadvantage for travel, shared offices and loud household environments. It also means you will hear less of your surroundings than with an open headset. If ANC and a base station are priorities, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless or Turtle Beach Stealth Pro are more appropriate feature-led alternatives; verify the current edition and availability before purchase.
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Audeze now lists the original as a legacy product and no longer sells it directly. Maxwell 2 launched January 5, 2026, at reported launch prices of $329 for PlayStation and $349 for Xbox. Coverage describes a current-generation design with comfort and microphone changes, but those revisions do not make every Maxwell 2 advantage universal without considering actual street prices and fit. Audeze legacy listing · SoundGuys Maxwell 2 coverage · PC Gamer review
Buy the original only when the discount is substantial, the seller is reputable, the warranty and return policy are clear, and the platform version is correct. Maxwell 2 is the safer choice when you want direct manufacturer availability, the current support lifecycle or the revised design.
Who should buy the original Maxwell?
It is a good fit when you:
- Put sound quality ahead of minimum weight.
- Mostly play at a desk and want one headset for games, music and films.
- Need very long battery life plus dongle, USB-C, Bluetooth and analog options.
- Use PC with one primary console and can choose the matching variant.
- Find a new, refurbished or used unit from a reputable seller at a meaningful discount.
Look elsewhere when you:
- Dislike heavy headsets or need stable fit while moving.
- Require ANC, travel isolation or all-day office comfort.
- Expect one dongle to provide full wireless Xbox and PlayStation support.
- Need a broadcast-quality microphone.
- Want a current product sold and supported directly by Audeze.
Alternatives by priority
| Priority | Alternative | What changes |
|---|---|---|
| Current Audeze model | Maxwell 2 | Current product with revised design and updated systems; compare tested comfort and the actual price gap. |
| ANC and base-station convenience | SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless | More convenience features and ANC, but a different sound-first trade-off. |
| ANC and conventional premium features | Turtle Beach Stealth Pro | Strong feature alternative; verify the platform edition and current availability. |
| Lower weight and simplicity | HyperX Cloud III Wireless | Lighter, simpler and typically less audiophile-oriented; verify the current model and price. |
| Maximum stage or comfort | Wired open-back headphones plus a microphone | Potentially wider presentation and lower head weight, but no wireless convenience or integrated game/chat controls. |
Final verdict
The original Audeze Maxwell is still one of the most convincing wireless gaming headsets for listeners who put sound first. Its planar drivers, powerful battery, low-latency dongle and strong boom microphone are genuinely impressive. It is not an unquestioned winner: 490 g is a serious comfort penalty, ANC is absent, platform versions matter, imaging is not perfect and Audeze now treats the model as legacy hardware. Buy it only at a compelling discount and only after confirming the correct console version.
Quick Recap
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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