(The Best Gaming Headset?) Audeze Maxwell - Headphone Highlights

[@MasterMarslander]

NOTE: As many folks have been pointing out - the head strap does NOT need to be unscrewed to adjust the size. I opted to unscrew it because when I attempted to pull the strap from the pegs it tore the hole in the leather on my unit. Your mileage may vary.

[@Drakken2030]

You do not have to unscrew the headband to adjust the settings you can simply pull it off from the front

[@MasterMarslander]

Yeah, so they say. When I first attempted to just pop the headband off the screws it tore the leather, so I didn't want to chance it.

[@zanychelly]

@@MasterMarslanderyou just need to pull it in a angle…

[@Reaper9-4]

sony bought audeze AND dolby atmos is free to use now in the sound settings! just though people want to know if they think having atmos is a dealbreaker or not. so it is definetly on the ps5 atleast, just ordered my maxwell hope this helps you guys in someway.

[@CEEEEEEEEENA]

would this ps5 headset will have dolby and 3d tempest audio ? simultaneously

[@curtdazzle9416]

Also, the XBOX version works on the PS5 as well so for $30 more you get DOLBY ATMOS, and a headset that pretty much works with everything.

[@CEEEEEEEEENA]

@@curtdazzle9416 a future firmware update could remove that , and only ps headset will be compatible with 3d audio

[@VisForVindetta]

The Atmos setting on PS5 is for home theater setups. It’s not going to sound right on headphones

[@AlexanderXtcSlayin]

This was the most passionately detailed review I’ve seen lol, thank you. I just ordered mine. My only concern is comfort, because of the weight & strap. My current gaming headset is the Arctis 5 because the Arctis line is just so damn comfortable.

[@MasterMarslander]

Arctis are super comfortable. With the Maxwell you will be dealing with more weight to be sure, but its all about how it is distributed. Play with the fit, rotate the pads, all that jazz. Hope you enjoy them!

[@x2ez4me]

Love the review. Currently have pc38x was curious if the maxwell would be better for COD (foot step purposes ) what’s your opinion.

[@MasterMarslander]

Don't get me wrong, I love the PC38X. Regarding precision with spacial audio, though? Yeah, I think Maxwell might have the edge there.

[@ben0179]

Very good review. Such an underrated channel! Keep up the good work!

[@MasterMarslander]

Thank you!

[@VC777]

Still to this day i use these headphones for music, gaming, cinema, and work

[@frostydax]

Do you have a big head? I wish I could try these on. The clamp force on the Alpha Wireless and Arctis Pro Wireless killed me so I don't want to invest in this and be screwed.

[@VC777]

@@frostydax I guess my head is medium size. I don't need to adjust the headset to fit. Clamp from race doesn't bother me

[@RD-D]

Do you have any issues with sidetone and hissing/crackling?

[@VC777]

@@RD-D with my first pair no not at all. But with my second there's a crackle when sidetone is turned on. It is not too bad so it's doable.

[@waddles-rd4mi]

This review makes want to buy this one. I have been putting on hold for quite some time because of the price, and what if I did not like it. But my wife had enough of me looking at reviews and online listing and decided for me! Great review!

[@MasterMarslander]

I hope you enjoy it!

[@waddles-rd4mi]

I have it now. 2 descriptor that you gave to this. Detailed and Quick... As an audio quality pedestrian, I can say I felt this qualities.

[@stemill1569]

I wish I could get them from Amazon here in Germany. With amazon you know what the return policy is when you don't like it. As from what I understand trhe Maxwell is a very niche product. If they had an upper level ANC and transparency mode I wouldn't think twice even paying 100 bucks more.

[@MasterMarslander]

Did you check the Audeze website? I'm not sure if they ship internationally, but they might.

[@rolardnb]

Thanks for reviewing. How is Maxwell compares to LCD-X, LCD-2?

[@Jamie-666]

I'd be interested too as I have the LCD-X.

[@andy5434]

Are you thinking of trying out the new Playstation Pulse Elites? I heard Audeze put their planar magnetic drivers in them because Sony acquired them recently.

[@MasterMarslander]

I've definitely been thinking about it, yes. I've been hearing some pretty positive things about it, but I do hope that vendors start offering replacement pads for the Pulse, because those stock pads don't look very reliable at a glance.

[@Jayjayxxx007]

Are you going to do a review of the recently pulse elites?

[@MasterMarslander]

I'm thinking about it. Just needs the expendables funds.

[@dynamike549]

I own the Maxwell's right now and it's amazing. What's a little annoying is that everytime I boot up my PS5 it resets the volume to around 50% or something. Did you also have that experience? Nobody is talking about it.

[@MasterMarslander]

You know, I didn't realize it until you mentioned it. Wild.

[@dynamike549]

@@MasterMarslander yeah I'm used to official PlayStation headsets that retain the volume they were left on. Slight annoyance.

[@MasterMarslander]

@dynamike549 I suppose I can understand maybe doing it to avoid the headphone blasting at full volume when you first boot up? Donno if that's what they were going for.

[@dynamike549]

@@MasterMarslander I've contacted Audeze and they told me this shouldn't be a thing. My son's headset has the same issue. If you pull out the dongle and connect it via USB C to C, it then does retain the volume level. Something ain't right in the dongle software.

[@MasterMarslander]

@@dynamike549 They did just release a new firmware update, maybe you need to jump on that.

[@jeffalv6176]

any chance you can do a follow up review with the many patches firmwares that released and the custom eq's if you can test it out can see how it is now ?

[@MasterMarslander]

I'm planning a best headset by price video. I'll be sure to mention everything updated on the Maxwell.

[@tedunseth3966]

I researched high end gaming headsets for 2 months. I was looking for the best one for my PS5 and for my bro who has the XSX. It wasn't even close in the end. I bought the Maxwell PS version for myself and got my bro the Xbox version. The Maxwell works amazing with Sony's 3D Tempest Engine. It's incredible. The xbox version uses Dolby Atmos because MS uses Dolby with their spatial audio chip in the XSX. Buy this headset.

[@MasterMarslander]

Yes, I didn't get a chance to mention that. Sony's 3D audio sounds wondrous with the Maxwells. Thanks for hitting on that!

[@manuelsampaio1748]

Why Xbox version and no playstation version for ps5?

[@frostydax]

Do you have a big head? I wish I could try these on. The clamp force on the Alpha Wireless and Arctis Pro Wireless killed me so I don't want to invest in this and be screwed. The only headsets I have worn that are comfy for me are the new Atlas Air by Turtle Beach and the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro 2023.

[@MasterMarslander]

I have a pretty large noggin'. I don't find the clap too fatiguing with the Maxwell. That being said, if comfort is your number one priority, you might want to look into the Cooler Master MH-751. One of the most comfortable headsets I've used.

[@stevedogg1329]

Such a passionate review and helped me decide to order the Maxwell. My main concern is planar magnetic crinkle, which can occur with this type of driver and will happen at some point. Have you experienced this yet during your time with the Maxwell or is it a worry for you?

[@MasterMarslander]

Glad I could help! No, I have not noticed any crinkle in the drivers. These are Audeze drivers, so I have a lot more confidence in their reliability than most other planars.

[@stevedogg1329]

@@MasterMarslander That's reassuring. I did buy an extended warranty, just in case. Can't wait to try these out!

[@jeffalv6176]

Hello I know this reply is late after your review but can i request a video about different ear pads and headhands for these? Buying them next month Your review got me too hyped... i gave up resisting and i must buy it!

[@MasterMarslander]

I picked up some Wicked Cushions and their optional headband for the Maxwells. It's what I currently run them with. Well made pads, and the cooling gel is actually pretty nice.

[@jeffalv6176]

Tyvm. Ya i heard the mesh fabric put off some ppl. I guess ill have to try them for my self And the headband, is because i dont have a big head and i heard i need better band. Silicone Still... ill wait to have them first befor buying all that stuff Maybe they will be perfect fit.without anything

[@MasterMarslander]

@@jeffalv6176 Yes, definitely try it out first before jumping on peripherals. That being said, Dekoni also just announced that they are now making elite pads for the Maxwell, so that might be worth a look.

[@Fij52]

I'm sold on the set, but I have one question: What's the range in terms of distance from the dongle? Like during every day use.

[@MasterMarslander]

@Fij52 I've been able to go anywhere in my house without interruption, even the backyard. I'd say a good 40 to 50ft of range at least.

[@Fij52]

@@MasterMarslander Thanks so much for the feedback! Amazon reviews said it was very limited, but it's Amazon.

[@Pretender_Gamer]

Nice review, but you comparing Closed back whit open back headphones... why? For example me, I can`t have open back headphones at this moment and looking for good closed back headphones, you could compare another closed back headphones that will be great...

[@cagethelonewolf]

my issue is it's a bit tight, it feels like the headest was made b ackwards wearing it the other way around feels way better

[@MasterMarslander]

It does have some clamp-force, yes. Try to take advantage of the adjustment yoke and play with the swivel to control how much pressure you get in front/behind the ear. Maybe you can try rotating the pads too, that might help with the fit. Could simply be that the angle pads aren't for you, in which case you can try swapping the pads for something flat.

[@DavidHorth]

Editing Matt might be needed again at 13:30 and 19:30. As per my comments on the original videa, you are not supposed to unscrew the headband but pull it off and press it back on. Audeze does not recommend unscrewing it as it may damage the headband. As to the app, it has a 10 band equializer and you can program in four presets, which are uploaded to the headset, making it a fantastic option for customisation with its excellent DSP.

[@MasterMarslander]

I totally forgot about the dang headband, ugh. And really?? I'll have to look again cause I didn't see any custom option for eq in the desktop app.

[@DavidHorth]

@@MasterMarslander Click the Preset 1, 2 , 3 or 4 option. Make sure you're running the latest app and firmware is updated. Also works on the phone app.

[@prepetitH]

I’m glad you’re using it for PlayStation. I need it for rainbow six siege to hit push step better will this work?

[@MasterMarslander]

The Maxwell handles sound stage and imaging very well, and is very precise. Footsteps and gunfire have clear direction.

[@matthewburno]

I’m wondering if since Sony bought them would it mean Sony is going to make the XM6 headphones with the planner magnetic drivers? Or is it only for their pulse gaming line?

[@MasterMarslander]

If Sony drops an XM6 with Audeze's sound signature, I'll be a very happy camper. My pie in the sky wish is that they bring Audeze in to help with a new highend MDR line.

[@matthewburno]

@@MasterMarslander I’m hoping Sony does this for their sub 300$ headphones too though because then it’ll make apple look so stupid for investing into the wrong headphone brand! And I’m sure so many people would take the loss of iCloud festers for godly sound sub 300$ market!

[@OurPmIsAWacko]

PlayStation and Sony are different companies

[@ZensivYT]

Been trying to decide between these and the VZR’s.. any opinions?

[@MasterMarslander]

I have some concerns about VZRs "CrossWave." Kind of just looks like the same bizarre idea of blocking of the majority of the driver that Ultrasone does with thier headphones. I haven't heard the VZRs though, so maybe I'll eat my words.

[@commanderkaoz1556]

Did you test out the sidetone at all? I hear reviews saying there's a lot of white noise and/or static in the sidetone. I am partially deaf in my right ear and sidetone is a must in order for me to know how loud I'm talking. Any insite you have on this would be incredibly helpful.

[@MasterMarslander]

I did briefly in my initial testing and found it just fine, but I'll play around some more and get back to you, keeping your perspective on mind.

[@commanderkaoz1556]

@@MasterMarslander I'd be grateful for the effort. I am wanting to pull the trigger on this headset but at 300 bucks, I'm hesitant with sidetone being a possible issue.

[@MasterMarslander]

@@commanderkaoz1556 Okay, so tested out the sidetone for you. There is a noticeable noise floor. It's fairly faint, but by no means silent. The vocal clarity of the sidetone is quite good however, and when listening to any audio at a low volume I no longer notice the noise floor.

[@commanderkaoz1556]

@@MasterMarslander that's incredibly helpful info! I honestly didn't expect a reply after your initial comment. This is truly testemant to your dedication to the channel and kindness. Do you have an affiliate link to the headset by any chance? I would like to be able to reciprocate if I'm able possible.

[@MasterMarslander]

@commanderkaoz1556 I'm more than happy to help! I include affiliate links in the video descriptions, but you absolutely don't have to use it for my sake. It means more to me that any of my content can be helpful.

[@riekopo7638]

I'm pretty sure the Xbox version supports Xbox wireless fully and the other version does not. The Dolby Atmos license is just an extra.

[@MasterMarslander]

Both versions offer Bluetooth and 2.4ghz wireless connections, the latter being the way to go for sure. Is there some kind of special Xbox wireless connection thing? I wouldn't be surprised, but I don't have an Xbox so I don't know.

[@riekopo7638]

@@MasterMarslander Yes there is. There's a proprietary Xbox wireless protocol. Most headsets don't work wirelessly (audio and chat) with Xbox. Special Xbox versions (which are more expensive) have to be built to have that functionality. Xbox doesn't support Bluetooth/USB audio like the Playstation/Nintendo consoles do. Never have. If a headset doesn't have the Xbox wireless then your only option is to plug the headset into the Xbox controller 3.5mm jack. If the headset doesn't have 3.5mm jack then it won't work with Xbox at all.

[@MasterMarslander]

@riekopo7638 oh wow! Good to know! Thanks!

[@DavidOsbern]

Hello. Thank you for your detailed review of Fidelio x3 and x2. I want to get x2 for gaming, directional sound (footsteps, distance etc...) is important to me, how accurate are X2 s compared to x3?

[@MasterMarslander]

In terms of imaging and directional audio I think the X2 is the better option. X3 has more narrow soundstage.

[@DavidOsbern]

@@MasterMarslander Thank You!

[@prepetitH]

I wanna get these headsets with the game volume chat volume work for the PlayStation five

[@MasterMarslander]

Yes, I use my set on the PS5.

[@prepetitH]

I want to get these headsets will the volume chat? Makes work for the PlayStation five

[@TheSideout309]

The voice game mix, it doesn’t work with ps5 right? I am testing these and A50x. I am so torn

[@MasterMarslander]

I could of sworn it worked when I tested it on ps5. I'll have to find a friend to game with and check again.

[@MasterMarslander]

I will mention that a friend of the channel messaged me about the A50X and said he was having a terrible time with it. Haven't heard it myself, so take that with a grain of salt.

[@TheSideout309]

@@MasterMarslander I was doing research and it seems it doesn’t work. Wasn’t for me. Sony makes it difficult with that. Astro found a way around it. Def a great headset though. Weight was a bit bothersome. Ended up going with A50. I like that I can easily switch to Mac and mess with EQ. Where others, like Max, you need to move dongle. Honestly it was neck and neck. It was so close. I spent two weeks going back and forth. Both great audio and mic. Your videos helped too.

[@MasterMarslander]

@@TheSideout309 awesome, glad you worked it out!

[@MasterMarslander]

Followup, I can get the voice/game mix to work with the app on my phone while on the PS5. Bluetooth to your phone for app control and USB dongle to the PS5.

[@frankyfix853]

i have a dolby access license for pc. It is better to use the maxwell pure stereo or with the dolby tool?

[@MasterMarslander]

Of you can use Dolby, might as well! Especially for gaming.

[@wavshrdr8452]

How does this work for just general listening? I probably game 10%, listen to movies 40% and the rest listening to a wide variety of genres. If I was willing to spend up to $500 or so, what is the best option? I could spend more but my wife would kill me. The mic could be handy if it would work well for calls.

[@MasterMarslander]

It is an excellent headset for music. The Maxwell is a Audeze planar headphone through and through, it just so happens to also be a gaming headset. You mentioned earlier that you want a headphone with a lot of soundstage. In that case the Argon will deliver. Two things to consider here - Maxwell is a powered headset, so it does not require any amplification and can connect to any device. The T60 Argon requires a good amount of power, so it will need a dedicated amplifier.

[@СтефанПеев-х9я]

What about the other mics?

[@MasterMarslander]

@@СтефанПеев-х9я other mics?

[@pappsa8]

Hi men! Thanks for the quality review! Would you kind compare this with the drop dan clark closed x? Just in a few words if you dont mind,thanks 🙂

[@llSlangll]

I’m having a hard time setting up this headset I’m my pc doesn’t have my headset as a sound option as if it not recognized but it’s working through the mix amp app on pc

[@MasterMarslander]

I can give you a few tips that might help: 1) make sure the headset is fully changed and powered on, even if you are trying to run it wired from the PC. 2) Download the Audeze app that accompanies the Maxwells. You need the app to update the firmware of the headphone, and it will probably need to be required for Windows to recognize it as a new audio source. Here's a link: www.audeze.com/pages/audeze-hq-software 3) If you're only trying to use them wirelessly, try using them wired into the PC and see if they work at all. If they still don't work you might have a defective set.

[@JeromPonceGonzalez-s4b]

I have a question Has it 8 channel audio ?

[@MasterMarslander]

It supports 3d audio, but is not 8 channel. Not to get too into it, but no headphone can really be 8 channel. That would require 4 separate drivers per ear 😅 If what you're really asking is if it is an immersive headphone, then yes. Definitely.

[@clemenskaiser3429]

I send it back, I am always glad when I can put it off my ears!!!!!!!!!!

[@MasterMarslander]

That's a shame, I'm sorry to hear that you didn't enjoy it. Anything in particular you disliked about it?

[@clemenskaiser3429]

@@MasterMarslander wearing it feels like beeing in a plane (underpressure) and gaming audio (Warzone) is not the best. Selling Price 400 € … does not fit for me.

[@ThunderBandit]

Can it connect to Bluetooth (phone) and PC dongle at the same time?

[@MasterMarslander]

Yoi can have the headset connected bluetooth to your phone and control it through the app while connected to a PC or console, but it will prioritize the audio from the dongle. In my case, I can only hear the PS5, but can control the app on my phone at the same time.

[@Zeromobius19]

Thanks for the review. The ps5 now supports atmos fyi.

[@MasterMarslander]

Oh sweet!!

[@magicnil1760]

there are like another 20 reviews on YT stating you can adjust the band without unscrewing anything.. so maybe.. one could consider the possibility he's not able to get it done lol.. but its fine in the end.. no big deal, just funny

[@MasterMarslander]

That's what I keep seeing, but when I tried just pulling the strap off it quite literally tore the leather on one of the slits. Maybe my strap is a little faulty, I don't know.

[@Novice2121]

Lol you dont need to unscrew to adjust the head bang :)))

[@calvinyip364]

Please review the moondrop para

[@MasterMarslander]

I did hear it at CanJam. Lots of noise on the show floor, but they did sound pretty solid from what I could tell. Maybe I can get a set in the studio someday.

[@calvinyip364]

@@MasterMarslander how does it compare to the Sundara? Now I am looking for something different or an upgrade from what I own the hd600, he400se.

[@MasterMarslander]

@calvinyip364 HD600 is a very neutral and natural sound with exceptional midrange and timbre. Do you want something more fun and bombastic, or something more analytical and precise? What kind of sound are you looking for?

[@calvinyip364]

@@MasterMarslander more soundstage? Good in vocals ? Maybe more detail?

[@MasterMarslander]

@calvinyip364 if you want a closed back with exceptional soundstage, take a look at the ModhouseAudio Argon. Can not reccomend them enough.

[@mahirc3543]

Once you go planar you Never go back!

[@clairvoyance7424]

best gaming? i thought it have many flaws like busted left/right channels?

[@MasterMarslander]

The Maxwells? I haven't noticed any left or right channel imbalances. Performs great.

[@mattjohnson3954]

@@MasterMarslander He's right, have had to RMA mine, right channel just stopped working, they are going to repair or replace.

[@MasterMarslander]

@mattjohnson3954 wild. I'll have to keep an ear on it to see if that happens to mine. So far no issues.

[@kevinolson1851]

Im sure the batter is amazing but using it for 1-3 hours a day for a month is not constant use.. try using it for 8+ hours a day for a month.. thats constant use.

[@MasterMarslander]

That's way more gaming in a day then I can handle.

[@jeffalv6176]

Am pretty sure he means the Average "gaming" hours... in that case at the en of the month an average pc gamer would have between 20 to 40% left (Average gamers is about 2 hours per day) thats 60 hours a month

[@Dreamer66617]

@4:20 battery powers amp

[@Dreamer66617]

hahaha already corrected it

[@Bonvo360]

to me, the maxwell is not that great, i do not see the hype.. im bout to ready to sell mines... pc38x completely blows these out the water.

[@MasterMarslander]

They're kind of polar opposites, you know? PC38X just kills it with the timbre and staging. I do kind of think if you like one you may not like the other, because they are so opposing.

[@ThePaulg123]

The pc38x is an open back headset and these are closed so things like soundstage etc will always be better in open any day of the week , that's just how it is, alot of reviews say if you need a headset for competitive gaming then there are better out there but for sound quality these are the crème de la crème

[@Cyb3rRust]

​@@ThePaulg123cough turtle Beach stealth pro

[@tordatfalviciprian5775]

1 charge 2 months lol .we play each day man..😂

[@tordatfalviciprian5775]

mines are coming monday 2 days more and gg

[@shadowdancer445]

The headset is prone to the right speaker going out in just 2-3 months.

[@MasterMarslander]

I haven't heard this before. Hmm. Mine is running good, fortunately.

[@M4L1y]

bro, 31 minutes it's too much

[@MegaDevsta]

Damn, this was hard to watch

[@estonianclatterfart]

You don't unscrew the screws you just pull the leather over it

[@christianwolthuis1285]

i hope he sees this because this is a game changer LMAO