These got me excited when they were announced and was eager to see hands-on reviews coming out online and on youtube. However, when they did start coming through they were underwhelming and threw caution towards purchasing them. Especially owning the original Maxwells. After a lot for digging around I made the purchase, and overall extremely pleased with the purchase.
For context my use of the headphones are to listen to music primarily, watch content and play switch 2 games. In this review I will not speak about the microphones as they have not been used. Initial used left me frustrated as the planar bass was missing and it was quite a sharp sounding in some of the upper frequencies. Planar bass and sound is something special to me. Thankfully there have been multiple updates to the headphone which have changed the game. After update 53a going between the original and the 2's was very noticeable, where I was actually shocked at the difference in overall clarity and separation. Honestly withing 2 songs I placed the originals on eBay. Super happy with how the sound now, especially when using the immersive preset.
I would argue that these are not a side grade, but a proper upgrade.
Sounds better
Much more comfortable - Bigger comfort strap and larger opening in the pads
Button placement is better
And the overall user experience is significantly more refined than the originals.
Music is great, watching content via the dongle is easier. Plus it allows for bluetooth connection to remain separate where I can play phones games without stopping the content being played via the dongle.
Really pleased with the purchase and for the reasons I wanted them.