Is the Audeze Maxwell 2 a worthy successor?
Audeze built the original Maxwell into a standout wireless audiophile gaming headset, and the Maxwell 2 is clearly intended to take that crown. After using the Maxwell daily for over a year, expectations were high; the new model keeps what many loved while adding a few changes that don’t always improve the experience.
Audio remains the Maxwell’s strongest suit: the 90 mm planar magnetic drivers deliver crisp, clean response across the spectrum, with low frequencies that punch without muddiness. Audeze’s SLAM plates give a touch more definition to very low notes and reduce the slightly claustrophobic feel of the original, while the 1800 mAh battery still delivers 80+ hours and rapid USB-C charging.
The 2.4 GHz dongle also seems to activate a little quicker than before. On the downside, the Maxwell 2 is heavier—rising from 490 g to 560 g—and changes to the earcup foam and a wider vented headband make long sessions more likely to cause jaw and head ache for some users.