The Audeze Maxwell 2 ANC takes an already impressive gaming headset and adds a feature that many players have been waiting for: active noise cancellation. Known for its detailed sound reproduction and powerful bass, the Maxwell series has earned a reputation among gamers who prioritise audio quality. The latest model builds on that foundation with noise isolation, improved everyday versatility and a feature set designed for demanding players.
According to TechRadar’s review, the Maxwell 2 ANC delivers an excellent listening experience without sacrificing the sound quality that made the standard Maxwell 2 stand out. Its planar magnetic drivers produce immersive game audio, while the addition of active noise cancellation helps keep distractions to a minimum.
However, this upgrade comes at a premium. The headset costs $429, making it $100 more expensive than the standard Maxwell 2. Battery life is also considerably shorter, particularly when compared with the impressive endurance of the non ANC model.
The result is a headset aimed squarely at gamers who want high quality audio and effective noise cancellation in one package. While it may not be a necessary upgrade for existing owners, the Maxwell 2 ANC makes a compelling case for anyone building a premium gaming setup from scratch.
Design and Comfort
The Audeze Maxwell 2 ANC retains the substantial construction of its predecessor. Large earcups, a sturdy frame, memory foam cushions and a ventilated leather head strap give it a premium feel. The design prioritises durability and comfort over portability, making it better suited to home gaming than carrying around all day.
At 560g, the headset is undeniably heavy. Players accustomed to lightweight gaming headsets may need time to adjust, and its weight is one of the most important considerations before buying. Nevertheless, TechRadar’s reviewer found the headset comfortable during extended sessions, crediting the cushioning and head strap with helping distribute the load.
The overall design remains familiar, with a few practical changes. The most noticeable addition is a dedicated ANC button on the left earcup, allowing users to control noise cancellation without navigating software menus. The wireless dongle is also more compact, giving the setup a tidier appearance when connected to a PC or console.
Physical controls are sensibly arranged. The left earcup houses the volume dial, game and chat mix control, USB C port, audio jack, microphone connection and ANC button. The right earcup contains the microphone mute switch and power button, which also handles Bluetooth pairing.
A detachable boom microphone is included for multiplayer gaming, while the built in microphone system provides an alternative for casual listening and calls. Overall, the Maxwell 2 ANC feels thoughtfully designed, although its considerable weight will not suit everyone.
Features and Connectivity
Connectivity is one of the headset’s strongest features. The Maxwell 2 ANC supports 2.4GHz wireless audio through its dongle, Bluetooth 5.3 and wired listening through USB C or an audio cable. This makes it suitable for gaming, music and general entertainment across several devices.
Compatibility includes PlayStation and Xbox versions, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PC, Mac and mobile devices. Buyers should ensure they choose the appropriate console version for their setup, particularly if Xbox compatibility is essential.
The headset also supports high resolution 24 bit, 96kHz audio and a range of Bluetooth audio technologies, including LDAC, AAC and SBC. Multipoint connectivity and newer Bluetooth audio features add flexibility for people who move between devices.
On Xbox, an embedded Dolby Atmos licence adds another benefit for users who want compatible spatial audio. Head tracking is also available through supported software, although its appeal will depend on individual preferences and the games being played.
The Audeze companion app provides access to firmware updates and equaliser adjustments, allowing users to fine tune the listening experience. These tools are useful additions, especially for players who want to customise the sound for competitive gaming, cinematic adventures or music.
The standout feature, however, remains active noise cancellation. Rather than simply increasing passive isolation through the earcups, the Maxwell 2 ANC actively reduces surrounding noise and includes a transparency mode for situations where awareness of the environment is important.
Audio Performance and Active Noise Cancellation
Sound quality is where the Audeze Maxwell 2 ANC makes its strongest impression. Its 90mm planar magnetic drivers deliver the detailed, full bodied presentation expected from a premium headset. In the review, combat effects sounded powerful, environmental details remained clear, and game soundtracks had a rich, engaging character.
This combination works across different gaming genres. Explosions and other low frequency effects have satisfying weight, while dialogue and environmental cues retain clarity. The result is an immersive listening experience that brings atmosphere and detail to the forefront without making the audio feel thin or lifeless.
The headset also performs well outside gaming. Music benefits from its detailed presentation and strong bass response, making it a practical option for users who prefer a single pair of headphones for entertainment throughout the day.
The introduction of ANC is particularly important because noise cancellation can sometimes affect the perceived balance of a headphone’s sound. According to TechRadar’s testing, the Maxwell 2 ANC maintains its impressive audio quality with ANC enabled, preserving the bass impact that helps distinguish the headset from many alternatives.
Audeze’s SLAM acoustic technology contributes to its bass performance, while dedicated amplification supports the noise cancellation system. The reviewer found the ANC effective in a busy household, helping reduce distractions during gaming and other listening sessions.
A transparency mode is also available when users need to hear conversations or other sounds around them. This makes the headset more versatile for everyday use, particularly in shared living spaces.
Microphone performance adds to the overall package. The detachable boom microphone reportedly delivers clear voice communication during online multiplayer matches, helping teammates hear instructions without unnecessary distraction. The built in microphone system is convenient when the boom mic is not required.
One minor drawback is that the headset can sound relatively quiet at its default settings. Adjusting the volume on a PC or PS5 helps address this issue, while the companion app offers additional control over the sound profile.
Overall, the Maxwell 2 ANC combines excellent game audio with noise cancellation that complements rather than undermines its core strength.
Battery Life and Everyday Performance
Battery life is the most noticeable compromise compared with the standard Maxwell 2. Audeze rates the Maxwell 2 ANC for up to 40 hours with noise cancellation disabled and 35 hours with ANC enabled.
Those figures remain practical for most gaming routines, allowing for several sessions before recharging becomes necessary. However, they represent a significant reduction from the roughly 80 hours of use associated with the non ANC model.
For players who regularly spend long periods gaming without easy access to charging, this difference may matter. The battery performance is respectable for a feature rich wireless headset, but it is less impressive when compared directly with its predecessor.
The additional power demands of active noise cancellation help explain the reduction, although buyers still need to decide whether the quieter listening environment is worth the trade off.
Comfort is another consideration during everyday use. While the reviewer found the headset comfortable over long sessions, the 560g weight makes trying it on advisable for anyone who is sensitive to heavier headphones.
Price and Competition
The Audeze Maxwell 2 ANC is priced at $429 in the US, £429 in the UK and AU$699 in Australia. That places it firmly in the premium segment, where buyers have several competing options.
Its higher price is largely tied to the combination of planar magnetic audio and active noise cancellation. For gamers who want both features in a single headset, the package has considerable appeal. However, those who mainly care about sound quality may find better value in the standard Maxwell 2.
Alternatives such as the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Omni and Turtle Beach Stealth Pro 2 are worth considering, depending on their pricing, connectivity requirements and feature sets. Players interested primarily in planar magnetic sound may also explore wired options, although these will not necessarily provide the same wireless convenience or ANC capabilities.
The central question is whether noise cancellation justifies the extra $100 over the standard Maxwell 2. For someone gaming in a noisy household, sharing a room or frequently dealing with background distractions, the answer may well be yes. For players who already enjoy a quiet gaming environment, the added expense is harder to justify.
Verdict
The Audeze Maxwell 2 ANC is an impressive premium gaming headset that combines excellent planar magnetic audio with genuinely useful active noise cancellation. It retains the sound quality that makes the Maxwell series appealing while introducing a feature that improves immersion in noisy environments.
Its sturdy construction, flexible connectivity, capable microphone and customisable audio settings further strengthen the package. The ANC is particularly noteworthy because it reduces distractions without significantly compromising the headset’s bass performance or overall listening experience.
There are, however, clear compromises. The $429 price puts it beyond the reach of many gamers, the 560g weight may not suit everyone, and battery life is substantially lower than that of the standard Maxwell 2.
For new buyers who want outstanding gaming audio and effective noise cancellation, the Maxwell 2 ANC deserves serious consideration. Existing Maxwell 2 owners can probably stick with their current headset unless ANC is a feature they genuinely need.
Ultimately, this is a specialised upgrade rather than an essential one. For gamers who place sound quality and noise isolation at the top of their priorities, the Audeze Maxwell 2 ANC delivers a compelling premium experience.
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