Meze Alba Earphones: Premium Sound Made Accessible

In June, Meze Audio, the renowned Romanian headphone manufacturer, released the Alba earphones, their most affordable pair of in-ear monitors (IEMs) to date. While I initially planned to review them at launch, supply chain issues led to delays in stock availability. Now that they are finally in stock and ready to ship, it’s time to dive into a comprehensive review of the Alba earphones. The name “Alba” means “First Light” in Romanian, symbolizing a fresh start, and these IEMs are designed for those who want to explore the world of high-quality audio without breaking the bank. As Meze Audio’s first entry-level earphones, the Alba promises comfort, quality, and design at a price that won’t require a financial sacrifice. With over-the-ear hooks for a secure fit, a detachable twisted-pair cable, and an array of four different sizes of soft silicone ear tips, these earphones prioritize both sound and comfort.

One of the features worth noting is the ear tips, which provide a respectable level of passive noise isolation. However, if you have larger ears, you may find the largest available size to be a bit snug, which might limit their noise-blocking ability. The Alba earphones perform best in quiet environments where you can immerse yourself in your music. If you’re often on noisy public transport or airplanes, you may want to consider active noise-canceling options instead. But for those who prioritize sound quality and have a quiet space to listen, these earphones are a treat.

For those unfamiliar with Meze Audio’s products, you’re in for a visual and auditory delight. Known for blending unique styling with exceptional sound quality, Meze Audio’s designs are heavily inspired by Romania’s Art Nouveau aesthetic. The Alba earphones are no exception. Crafted with a combination of zinc alloy and anodized aluminum, the earphones are not only durable but also feature a stunning pearlescent finish. These earphones are not only about sound; they’re a visual statement as well, appealing to those who appreciate a refined, stylish design.

The sound quality of the Alba earphones lives up to Meze Audio’s high standards. The company describes the tuning of the Alba as having “a neutral sound profile with a splash of warmth,” and I would say they’ve captured that balance perfectly. The earphones deliver crisp, clear highs, balanced mids, and warm, full-bodied bass. The bass never overpowers the other frequencies, making these earphones suitable for extended listening sessions without fatigue. Whether you’re into classical, rock, or electronic music, the Alba earphones perform admirably, handling a wide variety of genres with grace.

Meze Audio has also made the Alba earphones highly versatile, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of audio sources. The included DAC converter allows the Alba to pair seamlessly with devices like the iPhone 16 and other smartphones that have USB-C ports. Additionally, the earphones come with a gold-plated 3.5mm stereo jack for use with traditional audio devices, such as digital audio players. Whether you’re using the DAC converter or the 3.5mm jack, the audio quality is exceptional, delivering an immersive listening experience that pulls you into your music.

To put the Alba earphones to the test, I decided to listen to Clifford T. Ward’s Gaye And Other Stories album on Tidal. Ward, a talented English songwriter, didn’t achieve the fame he deserved in his lifetime but has since gained a loyal following. His music, often melancholic and deeply emotional, is ideal for testing a pair of earphones’ ability to capture delicate details. The Alba earphones handled the tracks beautifully, delivering the subtle nuances in Ward’s work with a precision that made the music feel alive. For those who have a streaming subscription, I highly recommend checking out Ward’s track “Home Thoughts From Abroad.” If it doesn’t give you goosebumps, you may want to listen again. Sadly, Clifford T. Ward passed away in 2001, but his music lives on. Listening to his work with the Alba earphones was a moving experience, thanks to the rich and detailed sound they provide.

At the heart of the Alba’s impressive performance are its 10.8mm dynamic drivers. These drivers deliver a broad frequency range from 15Hz to 25kHz, providing a well-rounded listening experience. The earphones also boast a sound pressure level (SPL) of 109dB at 1kHz, which means they can handle both quiet and loud tracks with ease, ensuring minimal distortion and maintaining sound quality throughout. The Meze Audio Alba earphones are, without a doubt, a triumph in the world of affordable high-quality audio gear. The inclusion of the DAC converter is a thoughtful touch, ensuring that users can take full advantage of the audio potential offered by these earphones, even if they’re using a smartphone. At $159 USD, £139 GBP, or €159, they strike a balance between cost and quality that’s hard to beat.

Whether you’re new to high-quality audio or an experienced audiophile on a budget, the Meze Audio Alba earphones offer an exceptional listening experience. Their unique design, superb sound, and thoughtful accessories make them a standout product in the crowded earphone market. If you’re looking for wired earphones that combine premium sound with an affordable price tag, the Meze Audio Alba earphones are an excellent choice. Highly recommended.