TheGeekyThings will focus on a true marvel in the wireless gaming headset space – Audeze’s Maxwell Wireless Gaming Headset. Garnering a plethora of praiseworthy reviews from tech enthusiasts and gamers alike, this product deserves detailed attention. It is not surprising that the good reviews of this headset are related to the sound quality, because Audeze’s Maxwell headset uses planar magnetic technology, which is not new to the world of audio, but thanks to modern manufacturers such as Audeze, has become a revolution in the world of sounds during the last decades.

• Comparing Planar and Dynamic Headphones
• Maxwell Headset Design
• Audeze Maxwell Specifications
• Setting up the Audeze Maxwell Wireless Gaming Headset
• What's Included in the Box?
• About Audeze Company
• Where To Buy?
• Bottom Line

Planar magnetic technology takes a different approach to producing sound in headsets compared to the traditional dynamic drivers. Here's a basics:

The Maxwell Gaming Headset features an over-ear. It's built with premium materials like aluminum yokes and a spring steel headband for durability during long gaming sessions. This wireless gaming headset has a sleek and modern design with a black color scheme and metal accents that give it a premium look. The green brand emblem on the headband in the Xbox version and the blue emblem in the PlayStation version are the only color elements present on the body. The large earcups are comfortable, and the adjustable headband ensures a secure fit. The microphone boom is flexible for optimal voice capture. The cushions are detachable and made from leather and memory foam inside. You can find a cooling gel cushions kit for replacement. The earcups have buttons and controls for volume, audio settings, and microphone mute, with an LED indicator for status. In general, the Audeze Maxwell is not quite similar to a gamer style, except for the RGB logo, which is quite restrained. But I think that's what a premium headset should look like.

The device's specifications render it a compelling option for audiophiles who are well-versed in technology.

Audio: Maxwell has an over-ear (circumaural), closed-back style. They use planar magnetic transducer technology with a Fluxor™ magnet array and Fazor™ phase management. The magnet type is neodymium N50, and the diaphragm type is ultra-thin Uniforce™. The transducer size is 90 mm, and the maximum sound pressure level (SPL) is greater than 120dB. The frequency response ranges from 10Hz to 50kHz, with a total harmonic distortion (THD) of less than 0.1% at 1 kHz and 1mW. The headphones also support spatial audio with Dolby Atmos® for the Xbox Version and Tempest 3D for the PlayStation Version.

Microphones: The headphones come with a detachable boom microphone that has a hypercardioid pattern. It features physical and AI noise reduction and also includes an internal microphone for chat purposes.

Power: The headset is powered by a lithium-polymer battery with a capacity of 1800mAh. They offer over 80 hours of wireless playback at 80dBA. The battery can be fast-charged using a USB-C cable, providing a 25% charge in 20 minutes. A full charge takes approximately 2 hours. 

Connectivity: The Audeze Maxwell supports wireless connectivity with Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring ultra-low latency. They are compatible with multipoint, LE Audio, LC3, LC3plus, LDAC, AAC, and SBC technologies. For wired connections, the headphones feature a USB-C port with dual audio endpoints and game-chat mix support. Additionally, they have a 3.5mm TRRS active analog connection.

Weigh: 490g.

Xbox Setup: Maxwell syncs with Xbox One consoles and Xbox Series S/X. It can be tethered using the USB Dongle via the console's USB ports or the 3.5mm AUX connection, conveniently plugged into the controller. Access the Xbox Series S|X audio settings via the quick menu by hitting the Xbox button on your controller and heading to the speaker icon for "Audio & music". Here, you can modify volume and audio output settings under the "Volume & audio output" section in Settings > General. The Dolby Atmos app is available for spatial audio configuration. The chat mixer can also be adjusted while you're in an Xbox party chat.

Playstation Setup: Audeze Maxwell is compatible with PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5. Link it via the USB Dongle, wired USB, or the 3.5mm AUX connection into the controller. Your main PS5 audio settings are just a click away. Press the PS button on the controller and navigate to the speaker icon on the quick menu. From the Audio Output menu, adjust audio output settings and volume levels to your preference. You can also choose your party chat output between speakers and your headset. The Dolby Atmos app is accessible for spatial audio configuration.

PC/Mac Setup: this wireless gaming headset can be linked to your PC or Mac via several methods such as Bluetooth, USB, and AUX. Use the Audeze HQ software for firmware updates and EQ preset programming. Switch between EQ presets by double-tapping the headset volume wheel, and program custom EQ profiles through the Audeze HQ app.

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Photo: Audeze

• Audeze Maxwell headset
• Detachable hypercardioid boom microphone
• USB-C wireless dongle
• USB-C to USB-C cable
• USB-C to USB-A adapter (not shown)
• 3.5mm TRRS analog cable
• Quickstart guide and warranty card

Audeze is a premium technology company based in the U.S., renowned for designing and building advanced audio solutions. With an impressive user base ranging from Grammy-winning recording engineers and top eSports athletes to audiophiles, Audeze holds a prestigious position in the audio industry. The company distinguishes itself with innovative products, including planar magnetic technology and custom-engineered transducers, hand-assembled and tested in their Orange County factory. Audeze is committed to delivering uncompromised audio quality, a promise upheld by numerous awards and several U.S. patents.

So let's summarize Audeze Maxwell's review. As for the pros, the headset showcases a sturdy build, exceptional audio specifications with amazing sound quality, advanced tech integrations like Dolby Atmos, and a whopping battery life of over 80 hours. Also, if you do not need a gaming headset for Xbox, then you can save money and choose a cheaper version without Dolby Atmos. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Firstly, the comfort may not be optimal during use and it may require some acclimation. Additionally, some users have expressed concerns regarding the weight and tightness around the head. 

Game or chat mixing, sidetone feature, and media controls for play/pause and volume adjustment are available to you with this gaming headset. The Audeze Maxwell offers EQ presets and programming options for personalized sound output through the app. Special to this headset is its simultaneous audio support from different sources, perfect for multi-tasking gamers. Compatibility extends to PlayStation and Xbox consoles and this headset is as stylish as it is functional.

Audeze's Maxwell Wireless Gaming Headset stands as a powerful player in the gaming tech market marked by its high-quality audio output, with its planar magnetic driver's technology, easy connectivity options, and over 3 days of battery life. I'm happy to note that planar technology is increasingly appearing in gaming and VR headsets as the technology advances and the cost comes down. In general, after looking in detail at the review of these game headsets, I justify their popularity among gamers.

Specs Source: Audeze