Audeze is expanding its lineup of gaming headphones with the introduction of new ANC versions of the Maxwell 2. This version retains the standard model’s key audio features, including its 90 mm planar magnetic transducers, while adding active noise cancelling, a Transparency mode, and an advanced head-tracking system. As a result, the Maxwell 2 ANC are designed for gamers seeking better sonic isolation in noisy environments without sacrificing the accurate sound of the original headphones.
Active noise cancelling of up to 35 dB
The main new feature of the Audeze Maxwell 2 ANC gaming headphones is their active noise-cancellation system. This system can reduce ambient noise by up to 35 dB, helping to minimize distractions caused by conversations, PC fans, or other noises in a shared space. This technology allows you to better hear the audio details of a game without having to turn the volume up excessively.
Active noise cancelling also includes a transparency mode. This feature allows external sounds to pass through so that the player can remain aware of their surroundings. This makes it possible to hear someone speaking or keep an eye on what’s happening around you without removing the headphones. The Maxwell 2 ANC can therefore switch from enhanced isolation to a more open listening experience as needed.
A consistent sound reproduction with or without ANC
Enabling ANC can sometimes alter the sonic balance of headphones. Audeze states that it designed the Maxwell 2 ANC to maintain a precise and consistent audio response, whether ANC is enabled or disabled. This new version features two dedicated 1.4 W amplifiers operating in balanced mode. This architecture helps amplify the audio signal and power the noise-cancelling system.
The headphones retain the 90 mm planar magnetic transducers from the original Maxwell 2. Their frequency response ranges from 10 Hz to 50 kHz, while their maximum sound pressure level exceeds 115 dB. Audeze also reports a distortion rate of less than 0.1% at 100 dB. The Maxwell 2 ANC therefore builds on the acoustic foundation of the standard model, with deep bass, a clear sound reproduction, and precise localization of various sound effects.
Battery life can reach up to 40 hours with active noise cancellation turned off and up to 35 hours with ANC turned on. The 1,800 mAh lithium-polymer battery fully recharges in about two hours via USB-C. A 20-minute quick charge restores 25% of the battery.
Head tracking to enhance spatial audio
The ANC version also differs from the standard Maxwell 2 by incorporating an advanced head-tracking system with automatic calibration. In compatible applications, the headphones can detect the user’s movements and adjust the soundscape accordingly. Audio sources therefore seem to remain fixed in space even as the head moves, which helps make the experience more immersive.
Head tracking is notably compatible with Embody Immerse Gaming Hive, a solution that lets you enjoy personalized spatial audio in PC games. The headphones can also be used with the Dolby Atmos Renderer for creating professional Atmos content. Audeze notes that support for other partners specializing in spatial audio may be added in the future.
The Maxwell 2 ANC is also compatible with Dolby Atmos on PC and Xbox, as well as with PlayStation’s Tempest 3D technology. Head tracking is therefore an additional feature compared to the standard Maxwell 2, which is particularly appealing to gamers and content creators looking for a more dynamic spatial audio experience.
High-end gaming headphones for PCs and consoles
The new versions of the Audeze Maxwell 2 ANC headphones retain the key qualities of the original model, featuring 90 mm planar transducers, detailed sound, powerful bass, and precise reproduction of sound effects. They also retain a particularly wide frequency response ranging from 10 Hz to 50 kHz—a remarkable figure for gaming headphones—which allows them to reproduce both deep bass and the finest details.
Ultra-low-latency wireless connectivity, Bluetooth 5.3, and USB-C and 3.5 mm jack ports remain available. These models also retain the detachable microphone with background noise cancellation, spatial audio compatible with Dolby Atmos (Xbox) and Tempest 3D (PS5), as well as broad compatibility with consoles, computers, and mobile devices. Like the original version, the headphones are available in PS5 and Xbox versions:
