Audeze

Maxwell Dongle Issues. Step By Step Troubleshooting (PC/MAC + Xbox)

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Maxwell Dongle Troubleshooting (PC / Mac)

1. Install the Audeze App

 

2. Connect the USB Dongle

  • With the dongle unplugged, set the switch on the dongle to PC
  • Plug the dongle into your PC or Mac using the included USB-C to USB-A adapter
    • Use a USB-A port if available (recommended for stability)
    • Maxwell uses USB 2.0, and USB-A ports reduce potential compatibility issues
  • Try all USB ports on your computer—some ports may be partially damaged
  • Use the dongle’s USB-C port only if no USB-A ports are available

 

Note:
A lack of LED light on the dongle is normal on older firmware, and in some cases newer firmware not properly installed. The LED only indicates pairing status in this case, and can be safely ignored. 

After a few moments, the dongle should show Connected at the bottom of the Audeze app.

 

3. Update Dongle Firmware

  • If the dongle shows Connected, update it to the latest firmware using the Audeze app
  • Follow the on-screen instructions

 

4. Update Headset Firmware

  • Connect the Maxwell headset to your PC/Mac using a USB cable
  • Try different USB ports if needed
  • The Audeze app should now detect the headset and show its firmware version
  • Update the headset firmware if prompted
  • Disconnect the headset USB cable once finished

 

5. Pair the Dongle to the Headset

  • Ensure the dongle is still connected and shows Connected in the Audeze app
  • In Settings, select Pair Dongle
    • (This option will not appear if already paired)
  • Follow the on-screen instructions

Important pairing note:
After triple-tapping the power button:

  • If you hear “USB Dongle”, pairing is successful
  • Check the headset LED:
    • Green + White blinking = dongle pairing mode (correct)
    • Blue + White blinking = Bluetooth pairing mode (double tap instead of triple tap — try again)

Pairing should complete within a few moments.

 

Windows-Specific Fix (If Disconnecting/Reconnecting)

Some users report issues caused by the Windows Phone Service stopping.

  1. Disconnect the Maxwell dongle
  2. Open the Windows search bar and type Services
  3. Find Phone Service
  4. Click Restart

  5. Reconnect the dongle

     

Xbox-Specific Troubleshooting

If issues persist on Xbox after the above steps:

  1. Power off the Xbox
  2. Remove the Maxwell dongle
  3. Unplug the Xbox from power for 30–45 seconds
  4. Plug it back in and power on
  5. Sign into your Xbox account
  6. Set the dongle switch to Xbox
  7. Turn on the Maxwell headset
  8. Plug the dongle into the Xbox USB port

You should see “Headset Assigned” on screen.

Also check:
Settings → General → Volume & Audio Output → Additional Options
Set Party Chat Output to Headset or Headset & Speakers

 

If You Still Need Help

Please answer all of the following so we can assist efficiently:

  1. Are you using the latest Audeze app (not Audeze HQ)?
  2. When using the USB-A adapter and testing all USB ports, does the app show the dongle as Connected?
  3. Is the dongle firmware fully updated?
  4. Have you connected the headset by USB and updated the headset firmware?
  5. Do the dongle and headset firmware versions match and show as up to date?
  6. Have you used Pair Dongle after completing all updates?
  7. Have you tested the dongle on another device (e.g., Android phone/tablet via USB-C, switch set to PC)? Does the issue persist?

Let us know the results, and we’ll guide you through the next steps if needed.