Audeze announced their latest wireless gaming headset, Maxwell, which features a number of changes and improvements over Penrose.
One of the biggest changes is moving from a plastic body to a metal one. This should offer additional durability, helping Maxwell stand the test of multiple intense gaming sessions.
Another massive improvement is implementing Audeze proprietary lag-free A.I. powered noise filtration system. This is the same technology used in their speakerphone Filter, which earned Audeze a spot in Time Magazines Best Inventions of 2022. This potentially means the end of the dreaded fan capture, something that has remained something of a joke in the gaming community for well over a decade. This feature works with either the in-built microphone, or detachable boom mic, which was designed by Shure.
Along with these features, Maxwell boasts an impressive 80+ hours of battery life, with fast charge to make sure you can maximize your gaming session without having to plan ahead. Wireless support was also improved significantly, through a new low-latency wireless dongle that offers up to 3x the range Penrose did; plus support for Bluetooth 5.3, including support for LC3 and LC3plus codecs.
Anyone interested in the full specifications can find them below:
Physical
- Style: Over-ear (circumaural), closed-back
- Transducer Type: Planar Magnetic
- Transducer Size: 90 mm
- Diaphragm Type: Ultra-Thin UniforceTM
- Magnetic Structure: FluxorTM Magnet Array
- Magnet Type: Neodymium N50
- Phase Management: FazorTM
- Earpads: Synthetic Leather / memory foam
- Weight: 490g
Microphones
- Boom Microphone: Detachable Hypercardioid, Designed by Shure
- Beamforming Microphones: Inbuilt 5-mic array for convenience and noise
- reduction.
- A.I.-Powered Hardware Noise Filter removes unwanted noise
Audio Performance
- Frequency response: 10Hz-50kHz
- THD: <0.1% (@ 1 kHz, 1mW)
Power
- Battery: Lithium-polymer, 1800mAh
- Battery Life: 80+ hour wireless playback @ 80dBA
- Charging: USB-C, 5v 1.8A max
- Charge time: 0-100% in 2.5hr, 0-25% in 20min (with 1.8A charger)
Connectivity
- Ultra Low Latency Wireless: When used with included USB-C
- dongleBluetooth: 5.3, supports multipoint, LE Audio, LC3, LC3plus, LDAC,
- AAC, SBC
- Wired USB: USB-C, PC connection supports dual USB audio endpoints with
- inbuilt game-chat mix
- Wired: 3.5mm TRRS active analog
Connectivity
Audeze Press Release
- Xbox edition: XBox Series X, XBox Series S, Windows 10/11, macOS, Android,
- iOS, Nintendo Switch
- Playstation edition: Playstation 5, Windows 10/11, macOS, Android, iOS,
- Nintendo Switch
Those interested will be able to purchase the PlayStation version of Maxwell for $299, with the Xbox version costing $349. The reason for the price difference is due to the Xbox version including a Dolby Atmos license. While a release date was not given, Audeze expects their first shipment in Jan. 2023.
