Audeze Maxwell 2 ANC: One-minute review
The Audeze Maxwell 2 ANC is simply a fantastic version of an already world-beating wireless gaming headset. While it shares an awful lot with the original Audeze Maxwell 2, the addition of genuinely excellent active noise cancellation means that it offers an enhanced experience compared to its predecessor.
The design and build remain very similar to that older model, with large earcups sitting comfortably over the ears while the leather headstrap keeps things secure. Controls are nearly identical, bar the addition of an ANC button on the front of the left cup. It is a sturdy and robust build which gives great confidence, though at 19.75oz / 560g, it is quite heavy.
However, the heft is unequivocally worth it when it comes to performance. The source review highlights the non-ANC Maxwell 2 as a top-tier choice for gaming audio, and the ANC variant sounds just as brilliant across different platforms.
The active noise cancellation itself is a welcome and genuinely impressive addition, blocking out exterior noise efficiently while offering a transparency mode. The quality of the ANC makes it ideal for busy environments and maximal gaming immersion.
This positions the device firmly among the absolute best in the premium ANC headset market, provided it fits within the buyer's budget.
Audeze Maxwell 2 ANC: Price and availability
List price is set at $429 / £429 / AU$699.
There is a notable increase in price over the non-ANC model.
The headset is priced directly alongside premium competitors from brands like SteelSeries, sitting above several other wireless contenders.
The Maxwell 2 ANC is more expensive than its regular counterpart by $100 / £90 / AU$130. Given the minimal feature differences outside of ANC, its value proposition may be questioned by some consumers.
At this price point, it competes with alternatives like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Omni, which also features strong ANC capabilities.
More broadly, alternative models such as the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro 2 are available for noticeably less, though they offer different specifications.
Ultimately, the combination of planar magnetic driver audio and great ANC makes it a sizable investment, but one that earns its price tag for audio enthusiasts.
Audeze Maxwell 2 ANC: Design & features
The headset features a robust build with an expanded feature set building upon its predecessor.
It is slightly heavier than the non-ANC version.
Battery life is noticeably lower compared to the original model.
The Maxwell 2 ANC feels solid, robust, and capable of withstanding everyday use, largely owing to its heavier construction.
In reality, the design incorporates memory foam cushions and a ventilated leather head strap that effectively offset the weight, maintaining comfort over long listening sessions.
The left earcup houses the volume dial, game-chat mix dial, audio jack, USB-C port, mic port, and the new ANC button. The right cup features the mic mute switch and power button, which also handles Bluetooth pairing. A dual microphone setup enables casual use without attaching the boom mic.
Other improvements include a much shorter wireless dongle for a tidier setup on a PC or console. Head tracking features via Embody Immerse Gaming Hive and Dolby Atmos Rendered compatibility are also included as functional additions.
The most notable drawback in the feature set is reduced battery life. While the non-ANC version delivers around 80 hours of use, the ANC version is limited to approximately half that with ANC off, and roughly 35 hours with ANC enabled.
While still serviceable for well over a full day of use, the drop in longevity is substantial.
Audeze Maxwell 2 ANC: Performance
The headset delivers incredible audio quality across all supported games.
Active noise cancellation performs excellently without degrading bass response.
It offers comfortable wear alongside a reliable microphone system.
When put to the test, the Audeze Maxwell 2 ANC matches the stellar audio output of the regular Maxwell 2 model.
The headset provides punchy combat audio, crisp environmental cues, and rich soundtracks, while also serving as a capable media and entertainment device for music playback.
The microphone combination ensures clear voice transmission during online multiplayer sessions.
Crucially, the active noise cancellation does not suppress bass output, avoiding a common pitfall found in many competing ANC headphones.
This results in uncompromising audio fidelity and effective isolation from external household noise, aided by Audeze's Symmetric Linear Acoustic Modulator (SLAM) technology.
Despite its heavier build, the headset remains comfortable during extended gaming sessions.
By default, the headset can run somewhat quietly, though volume levels are easily adjusted on PC or console. A companion desktop and mobile application also facilitates firmware updates and equalizer adjustments.
Ultimately, the Maxwell 2 ANC retains everything great about the non-ANC variant while successfully integrating high-end noise cancellation.
Buy it if...
You want the best-sounding gaming headset currently available and require the most up-to-date variant.
Active noise cancellation is at the top of your feature list, combined with uncompromising acoustic prowess.
You are an audiophile gamer seeking specialized planar magnetic drivers.
You operate primarily across one or two dedicated platforms.
Don't buy it if...
You prefer lightweight headsets and are sensitive to heavier hardware designs.
You already own the standard Maxwell 2 and do not strictly require noise cancellation.
Also consider...
Alternative premium headsets remain viable options if this model does not suit your specific preferences.
Score breakdown
Scored out of 10Price & Release Date
Audeze Maxwell 2 ANC
