Field Test · Studio Gear Review
Meze Audio Alba
Technical insights into Meze Audio’s Alba closed-back in-ear monitors
Meze Audio
- Hi-Fi In-Ear Headphones
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Spec Sheet
- Wired headphones
- Dynamic
- Frequency range: 15 Hz – 25,000 Hz
- Impdeance: 32 Ohm
- Max. sound pressure level: 109 dB SPL (1 kHz/1 mW)
- Driver size: 10.8 mm
- Total harmonic distortion: < 0.1 % @ 1 kHz
- Detachable, smooth cable with 3.5 mm mini jack, including USB-C adapter
- Cable length: 1.5 m
- Material: Anodised aluminium with zinc alloy
- Weight: 14 g
- Colour: White/Silver
- Includes 4 pairs of ear tips (S, M, L, XL), eco-leather case and 3.5 mm to USB-C adapter (with built-in DAC/AMP)
Studio Log
| Available since | June 2025 |
|---|---|
| Item number | 616654 |
| Sales Unit | 1 piece(s) |
| Design | In-Ear |
| System | CLosed Back |
| Impedance | 32 Ohms |
| Frequency range | 15 Hz – 25000 Hz |
| Adapter | Yes |
| Replacable Cable | Yes |
| Marrone/Argento | White |
| Number of Ways | 1 |
| Colour | White |
| Number of Drivers | 1 |
| Removable Cable | Yes |
| Cable Length | 150 |
| Sensitivity | 109 dB |
| Type Of Connector | Mini Jack |
| Earmold possible | No |
| Weight | 14 g |
| HiFi | Yes |
| Allround | Yes |
| Application | HiFi |
Demo Footage
Field Photography
QC Pass — Field Test
Customer Review Summary
Introduction to Meze Audio Alba
The Meze Audio Alba is a closed-back, in-ear monitor (IEM) released in June 2025, positioned at £139. Designed for HiFi enthusiasts seeking a balanced and engaging listening experience, these wired earphones carry an anodised aluminium and zinc alloy build and offer a 32 Ohm impedance with a dynamic 10.8mm driver. Equipped with a detachable 1.5-metre cable terminated in a 3.5mm mini jack and including a USB-C adapter, the Alba combines flexibility and sound precision typical of Meze products.
Design and Build Quality
The Alba impresses with a sleek white and silver anodised aluminium casing, weighing a mere 14 grams. The metal housings feel solid, crafted as a single, ergonomically curved unit, which contributes to comfort and noise isolation despite the IEMs not being designed for earmold use. The straight metal mini jack plug adds durability and minimises tangling, though some users find the supplied cable prone to static build-up and a poor tactile feel, suggesting alternatives might be preferable.
Included are four sizes of ear tips (S, M, L, XL) and an eco-leather carry case. Achieving the best seal requires experimentation with these tips as the bass response depends heavily on a tight fit, a critical factor for audiophiles aiming to experience the full frequency range with minimal leakage.
Sound Performance
With a frequency response spanning 15 Hz to 25,000 Hz, the Alba delivers a broad sonic spectrum. The sensitivity of 109 dB at 1 kHz and low total harmonic distortion (<0.1% at 1 kHz) ensure clarity and accuracy. Reviews highlight a crisp, detailed presentation with a slightly warm tonality and pronounced bass, which is particularly effective on electronic music, delivering an impactful low-end without muddiness.
Classical piano tracks benefit from high resolution and nuance, though some users note the 32 Ohm impedance requires modest volume adjustment upwards to bring out detail. Compared to competitors like the Sennheiser IE 400 Pro, the Alba offers competitive separation, detail, and instrument layering at a substantially lower price point.
These IEMs suit listeners focusing on critical audio tasks, like mixing or instrument study, thanks to their uncoloured midrange and detailed highs. However, the closed-back design and less isolating ear tips mean ambient noise reduces slightly, trading isolation for airiness and soundstage openness.
Comfort and Usage
The compact form factor and light weight make the Alba comfortable for extended wear. The metal body is unobtrusive and fits securely, though some find static electricity buildup an issue. Users report a slight learning curve in wearing orientation and ear tip selection to achieve optimal comfort and sound quality. The included USB-C dongle with an internal DAC/AMP offers plug-and-play convenience but is often deemed insufficient for maximising the Alba’s potential without a dedicated external amplifier, especially in professional setups.
Accessories and Extras
- Four pairs of silicone ear tips (S, M, L, XL) for custom fit
- Eco-leather carrying case for protection and portability
- 3.5mm to USB-C adapter with built-in DAC/Amp
The accessory bundle aims to cover general user needs but falls short where cable quality and advanced amplification are concerned, as the cable’s static issues and included USB-C dongle’s limitations are frequent points of criticism.
Conclusion
Meze Audio Alba stands out in the sub-£150 category with its finely tuned sound signature, robust metal build, and comfort-oriented design. The earphones reveal detailed, dynamic sound with a warm balance that pleases across genres, particularly for listeners who appreciate clarity and instrument separation. While the cable quality and isolation could be improved, and the bundled USB-C adapter is more a convenience than a high-performance solution, the overall package is compelling for audiophiles entering the HiFi in-ear space.
Alba’s qualities shine through with appropriate amplification and careful ear tip selection, positioning them as a noteworthy contender for anyone seeking precision and comfort in a closed-back IEM.
