STEREO GUIDE verdict
The Apple AirPod Max Gen 2 take a big step forward, not least thanks to the 7E108 software update, especially in terms of spatiality. USB-C playback also brings a sound gain.
Pros
- completely free of charge (the software update)
- Significant gain in finesse, elegance and information
- suddenly 3D is a really strong option
Cons
- the address is aimed at the Apple community. Little happens without an iPhone, Mac or iPad
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Tonal balance / transparency9.1
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Bass / Dynamics9.5
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Usability / Connectivity9.5
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Price/Performance8.8
The big Apple company seems to have become a little listless. Especially in our segment – sound reproduction. Nothing new in the western USA? Not true. What could be an accusation is actually a fundamental value of the strategists in Cupertino: sustainability where it is appropriate, not novelty for its own sake. You can see this in everyday life: only the professionals can tell which MacBook my neighbor on the ICE has on the table right now – a newer product generation does not defame its predecessors. Now the transition: The Apple AirPods Max 2, the second generation of the over-ear headphones, is getting a massive boost thanks to a software update with the designation “7E101” (or higher – we are now at 7E108). This is especially true in combination with modernized Apple hardware. In technical terms, this means Hi-Res audio via USB-C, lower latency, more intelligent noise canceling and immersive 3D playback. Apple is aiming for the everyday lives of discerning listeners.
Since our first review (click here for the report), Apple hasn’t really made any obvious changes to the AirPods Max. Only the insiders see it – and the fashion-conscious: the 2025 model year headphones themselves have hardly changed externally – 386 grams of aluminum. The first generation was in light aluminum, now there are five color variants: Purple, blue, midnight, orange and polar star. The new USB-C port is more important.
Apple is not only saying goodbye to the outdated Lightning connector, but also opening the door to lossless, low-latency audio transmission. Provided the new software is installed on the AirPods Max. With the abbreviation “7E108” – you can easily see this under your Apple fleet via the “i” symbol next to it. However, this is not mandatory – if you have agreed to automatic updates (recommended) and have the new AirPods Max 2 connected to the charging current, the update will be installed automatically. The AirPods Max with Lightning connection introduced in December 2020 are not compatible with the new firmware version and its blessings.
Hi-Res thanks to USB-C connectivity
As always with Apple, the cost scenario is convincing in such cases – fresh hardware, fresh software, the latest version is free. Important to know: The Hi-Res functionality is reserved exclusively for the new model with USB-C. Older devices are excluded. The AirPods Max 2 can now be controlled directly via iPhone or Mac using USB-C. The music data in 24 bit / 48 kHz is no longer limited by Bluetooth – a big step forward. However, Apple devices with a USB-C port are required to use lossless audio transmission, such as iPhone 15 or newer, iPad Pro (from 2018) or Macs with USB-C. Side topic: Will Bluetooth ever be able to surpass the cable path in two or five years? So far, we can look ahead and say: unlikely.
Dive deeper into the 3rd dimension
Indirectly, this also clarifies a subtle issue: the conversion takes place in the iPhone, otherwise a data packet could be sent to the listener – as in modern streaming. The H1 chip in the Max USB C is primarily responsible for the “effects” – the word does not fit perfectly, because for all the show, Apple is really audiophile here: head tracking, dynamic 3D audio and precise spatial imaging clearly benefit from the optimized firmware. At the same time, the active noise suppression reacts more sensitively and reliably – a particular plus in mobile use.
If we think in terms of “target groups”, Apple is pursuing a dual strategy: the young fashionistas in the big cities will of course continue to float wirelessly over the asphalt. Serious listeners, however, will carry a cable with them and use it when the need arises. This could be on the train or in a hotel room – the mobility factor is still there.
Sound test: short and sweet
The sonic conclusion can be described quickly and in a few words: With a cable, the AirPods Max sound more dynamic, richer, without that hint of artificiality of the Bluetooth version – but this can only be heard in comparison.
In our first sound test, we took a rather critical view of 3D audio. Now a real surprise: we gain depth and spatiality in the sound image – in terms of authenticity, this is more honest. Above all: Apple is turning itself into a producer and mediator, with its own store and playlists, including and especially on Apple Music Classical – in combination with the software update and the USB-C connection, this is a win-win situation. For the company and for the Apple user.
Are we really playing in the world of high-end converters? Apple would love to. So would the brand’s fans. But the truth is more difficult. With cables and software updates, this is not a step, but a leap. The high-end faction will still shake their heads and point to the audiophile idea of even more valuable cables and even more valuable headphone amplifiers. Apple is not playing this game. But according to all the comparisons available to us, the sound level in the Apple world is now at the highest level. In fact, this is the best sound converter in the current Apple portfolio. It’s up to the user to decide on the subtleties, the extras. The situation, the choice of music, the recording technique determine the ideal listening experience in the here and now. It’s full-bodied, the really big show – but also as stringent as possible.
The sound characteristics are convincing in all disciplines
Or broken down again into individual disciplines: The AirPods Max 2 sound largely neutral, with a slight emphasis in the bass range. The transparency of the sound image is good, the richness of detail in the reproduction is convincing. The bass reproduction is powerful but controlled, without excessive dominance. In addition, the dynamics are good for wireless headphones and are only surpassed by expensive wired high-end headphones with special headphone amplifiers. The spatial presentation is also particularly impressive, especially when using spatial audio. Apple’s latest over-ear headphones therefore offer an all-round impressive performance, although the cult company from Cupertino has to pay accordingly.
Conclusion: Apple AirPods Max 2 with software update
What costs nothing is worth nothing? Nonsense: The new update for the AirPods Max USB C may be free, but it’s a massive game changer. Apple is suddenly playing in a class that can also convince audiophile users. In this constellation, it is certainly the best sound converter that Apple currently has in its portfolio. Comparisons with the competition make no sense. Because this is where Apple really comes into its own with its in-house playlists, software and hardware.
Apple AirPods Max Gen 2 (Software 7E108): Technical specifications
- Price (RRP): 579 euros
- Type: Over Ear, closed
- Weight: 386 g
- Dimensions: 16.9 x 8.3 x 18.7 cm
- Connection: USB-C
- Colors: Blue, violet, midnight, polar star, orange
- Scope of delivery: headphones, smart case, USB-C cable, quick start guide
- Important: High-res audio only via USB-C, Bluetooth drops out
- Software version: 7E108 (can be installed automatically, e.g. via iPhone)
- Further information: www.apple.com
