Gaming is proving to be a major shot in the arm for high-end audio and we wonder how long it will take for other high-end audio manufacturers to figure that out. Gaming headsets represent 40% of Audeze’s sales in 2023 and that’s rather telling for a brand that built its audience selling $2,000 to $4,000 headphones.
The California-based manufacturer has announced a limited edition gaming headset developed in partnership with Microsoft for their “Designed for Xbox” summer product collection.
The Audeze Limited Edition Maxwell “Ultraviolet” gaming headset incorporates a new finish along with some Xbox-specific features.
The Audeze/Microsoft Collaboration
This is the latest collaboration in the partnership between Audeze and Microsoft which began in 2021; Microsoft has already certified the Audeze Penrose gaming headset, followed by the Audeze Maxwell.
The partnership has benefitted both brands in a significant way; Microsoft has a superior pair of high-end gaming headsets to market to its global base of Xbox users and Audeze now has a new audience for its planar-magnetic headphones that extends well beyond the Head-Fi community.
Xbox
Microsoft released its first “Designed for Xbox” collection with a variety of gaming accessories in pastel tones in the Spring of 2022.
For 2023, the “Designed for Xbox” collection includes a headset for the first time with strong high-end roots.
To elevate the look of the Maxwell headset for inclusion in the “Designed for Xbox” collection, a color-shifting finish was applied to the ear cups and headband using an electroplating process. This results in a stunning one-of-a-kind look.
Audeze Maxwell Ultraviolet Edition Features
On the Audeze side, the Maxwell Ultraviolet Edition has been given improved low latency and incorporates Bluetooth 5.3 with LE Audio, Dolby Atmos, and FILTER™ A.I. noise-reducing microphone technology. Here are some other highlights:
- 80 hr+ Battery Life with Fast Charge for All Day Play in 20 min.
- Audeze 90mm Planar Magnetic Drivers.
- 10Hz to 50kHz frequency response
- Ultra-Low Latency Wireless with 3X Range of Traditional 2.4Ghz.
- Wireless connectivity via Bluetooth 5.3 with support for LE Audio, LC3plus, LDAC, AAC, SBC, and Multipoint Connectivity.
- Wired connectivity is also provided via USB-C and 3.5mm input.
- High-Resolution Audio up to 24-bit/96kHz.
- Detachable hypercardioid microphone
- New Reinforced Aluminum and Steel Chassis.
Availability and Pricing
The Audeze Maxwell Ultraviolet Edition Wireless Gaming Headset will officially launch on August 15, 2023, but is available for pre-order for $329 at Audeze.
Update: See our full in-depth review of Audeze Maxwell (December 2023)
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