Users have reported that the 8.5 Beta 1 is not functioning correctly. Consequently, I have canceled my update to 8.5.
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AirPods Max (USB-C version) wired audio impressions
- Thread starter PotentPeas
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I’m genuinely impressed by the latest update. I already own a high-quality pair of headphones and some IEMs, but the comfort and sound profile of the AirPods Max have made them my go-to choice over all my other audio gear. This firmware update really solidified my decision. Initially, I used them for movie watching, working on my Mac, and casual music listening while doing the dishes, but now they’ve become my main driver for DAPs, gaming, and even turntable output.
Also, I’m really happy to see that I can use them with any USB-C to USB-C cable. It’s one of those things that should be standard across the board, but I’m still pleasantly surprised that Apple didn’t lock this feature behind a pricey €45 “Apple certified” cable.
Also, I’m really happy to see that I can use them with any USB-C to USB-C cable. It’s one of those things that should be standard across the board, but I’m still pleasantly surprised that Apple didn’t lock this feature behind a pricey €45 “Apple certified” cable.
What's weird is that mine are updated, but don't work on my iPhone (18.5b1) AND other devices that are running the regular 18.4 / 15.4... I don't understand why...
I rolled back my iPhone from 18.5 Beta 1 --> 18.4 and lossless works flawlessly on 18.4. There is some bug with 18.5 Beta 1. Not a great day to be on the Apple Software team.
I tried it and I’ve always been good with sound and audio quality but honestly just couldn’t tell the difference not even slightly better highs or anything, I kept plugging it in and out and turning off Bluetooth to make sure and they sounded the same, it’s all marketing from Apple at this point, Apple even said there own codec is like the same. Anyone tried it and found a difference because I’m sure people will have a plecebo but it’s the same
I find the improvement of the USB-C to USB-C connection and the 3.5mm to USB-C Connection quite subtle. With other similar headphones like Beats or B&W, the difference is significant. Therefore, the bottleneck must be somewhere else. I am still not convinced that transferring audio to the other earcup wirelessly is a good idea.
However, I still believe that the AirPods Max are one of the best headphones with noise cancellation for on-the-go use and are worth the price.
For recording, I use an AKG K872 and for stationary use, I have a STAX X9000.
However, I still believe that the AirPods Max are one of the best headphones with noise cancellation for on-the-go use and are worth the price.
For recording, I use an AKG K872 and for stationary use, I have a STAX X9000.
I found zero difference, it’s just apples marketing. And I used to be an audio engineer.
Another interesting thing I found. The voice quality is *dramatically* improved over bluetooth wideband HFP. Please take a listen to these samples I produced this morning. I had several phone calls for work and everyone noted the dramatically improved audio quality.
Bluetooth:
drive.google.com
Wired USB-C Audio:
drive.google.com
Bluetooth:
Bluetooth Audio Recording.m4a
drive.google.com
USB-C Audio Recording.m4a
drive.google.com
EDIT: Wait... it appears that the Airpods Max can't actually use the mic in full wired USB mode. If you plug into USB on a Mac and turn off Bluetooth, the Airpods Max disappear from the audio input options. Are you sure the mic input didnt switch over to some other device, like your Macbook mic, etc?Another interesting thing I found. The voice quality is *dramatically* improved over bluetooth wideband HFP. Please take a listen to these samples I produced this morning. I had several phone calls for work and everyone noted the dramatically improved audio quality.
Bluetooth:
Wired USB-C Audio:Bluetooth Audio Recording.m4a
USB-C Audio Recording.m4a
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