The Top Line

Today, Jun 17, 2026, Audeze LLC announced the release of its much awaited Audeze Maxwell 2 ANC gaming headset. This is the ANC upgrade to the Audeze Maxwell 2 that was released at the beginning of this year.

According to Audeze:

Maxwell 2 ANC is the world’s first full-range planar headphone to feature active noise cancellation, leveraging our patented Audeze technology to provide superior sound isolation. Unlike other ANC headphones, Maxwell 2 ANC provides a consistent frequency response whether ANC is set to ON or OFF, giving users reliable precision under any circumstances. Benchmark tests show class-leading reduction in external broadband noise—significantly outperforming typical ANC gaming headsets.

"Our customers loved the Maxwell 2, but they kept telling us they wanted to completely block out the world without sacrificing our signature planar sound," said Sankar Thiagasamudram, CEO of Audeze. "With the Maxwell 2 ANC, we’ve achieved the holy grail of gaming audio. We didn't just add noise cancellation; we engineered a system that maintains absolute acoustic precision whether ANC is on or off. Whether you’re competing on a noisy esports stage or mixing spatial audio in a studio, this headset delivers total immersion without compromise."

Pricing and Availability:

• Maxwell 2 ANC for PlayStation: $429

• Maxwell 2 ANC for Xbox: $449

All models support Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Nintendo Switch.

Key Features:

• Industry-leading hybrid active noise cancellation with transparency mode

• Built-in head tracking with auto-calibration for superior spatial imaging for professional audio work

• 90mm Audeze planar magnetic drivers deliver pinpoint accuracy and unrivaled sonic detail.

• SLAM™ technology produces more dynamic bass with deeper frequency extension to produce a more immersive soundscape than ever

• FILTER™ AI noise removal ensures crystal-clear voice communication without distracting background noise

• Wide, ventilated headband and spacious earpads for superior comfort over long gaming and listening sessions.

• Versatile connectivity allows users to connect seamlessly to their PC, console, and mobile devices.

A Brief History

When Audeze launched the original Maxwell in 2023, it was met with near universal acclaim. Many reviewers, including myself, praised it as the best sounding gaming headset in the market at the time. The only complaint? Weight. At 500 g, it’s not a matter to be taken lightly (pun intended). The Maxwell was immensely popular, with constant product shortages.

Since then, Audeze was acquired by Sony Interactive Entertainment to bring their planar technology to Sony’s consumer line of gaming headsets. And in Jan 2026, Audeze released the Maxwell 2 as the long-awaited update to the beloved original, with a fun little re-skin option in the form of modular faceplates. However, as demand for ANC grew, Audeze obliged with an ANC version of the Maxwell 2 at a $100 premium.

My Take

From what I understand, the Maxwell 2 ANC had been slated to be released in April 2026. However, there was a delay until its release date of today - I’m not privy to the details of the delay, but my presumption is that Audeze faced challenges producing enough units for launch to avoid shortages like they did with the original Maxwell. Finalizing the ANC integration would likely have been another barrier as well.

I had the opportunity to hear the Audeze Maxwell 2 ANC back in March at Montreal Audio Fest at the Audeze booth. You can watch my impressions here. However, keep in mind this may not be representative of the final production unit. In general, it keeps many of the same characteristics as the original, but is notably brighter and more forward sounding. The weight unfortunately has not been reduced.

Personally, I think Audeze has a bit of a rocky road ahead in this market. The landscape for gaming headsets has become much more competitive compared to three years ago. When the original Maxwell was released, there was nothing else like it on the market. Its sound quality was leaps and bounds above its competitors. However, the reception to the Maxwell 2 launch was lukewarm at best.

I believe part of the reason is that the market has simply evolved. While there still isn’t anything quite like the Maxwell as a whole package, other gaming headsets are coming close while offering key benefits such as better comfort and a lower price.

I’m also not yet convinced that the updated feature set of the Maxwell 2 ANC is ahead enough to warrant its higher asking price and bulky build. While Audeze may boast improvements to its mic quality and now its class-leading ANC, I’d wait for a few reviews going over these features to see how much of a benefit these marketing points from Audeze actually provide. From my experience with the Maxwell 2 ANC, it works. But I can’t say I think it’s going to heavily factor into my purchase decisions with this headset. The headset is isolating enough that with gaming sounds on top, noise is a minor issue. That said, I admit I’m not too much of a gamer, so I might not be quite the right target audience.

Written by Fc-Construct. All opinions expressed are my own.