Meze Audio Alba IEM: Complete Audiophile In Ear Monitor Review

When Meze Audio—known for their premium headphones that range from a couple hundred dollars to $4,000—announced a $159 IEM, the audiophile community was surprised. Could the Romanian company that crafted the legendary Empyrean deliver performance at this price point? After extensive testing, here are our thoughts on Meze Audio’s entrance into the IEM market.

Overview

The Alba represents Meze Audio's first attempt at an entry-level IEM, and they've approached it with the same design philosophy that made their flagship headphones cult favorites. This isn't a cheap throwaway product—it's a carefully engineered listening tool that happens to cost $159.

Key Highlights:

• Single 10.8mm dynamic driver configuration
• Zinc alloy and anodized aluminum construction
• Custom USB-C DAC/AMP adapter included
• Romanian craftsmanship and design
• $159 USD retail price

What’s In The Box

• 1 x Alba IEMs
• 1 x Premium cable
• 1 x Custom USB-C DAC/AMP adapter
• 1 x Multiple ear tip sets
• 1 x Carrying pouch
• 1 x Documentation

The included USB-C Adapter is a lovely surprise that most companies do not include even with much more expensive IEMs. The adapter allows you to use your IEM with any USB-C Mobile device and is a very thoughtful touch from Meze Audio showing commitment to their customers.

Sound Quality

Bass

The Alba delivers great bass performance without sacrificing clarity. The 10.8mm dynamic driver produces bass that's impactful but not overpowering. The Alba has some of the best bass performance in the price range, even outperforming bass response from classics like the Shure SE215.

Bass Characteristics:

• Deep sub-bass extension with authority
• Punchy mid-bass with noticeable bump around 150-200 Hz
• Excellent transient response and control
• Never muddy or overwhelming

Midrange

The midrange presentation strikes an impressive balance between warmth and clarity. The 10.8mm dynamic driver creates a balanced and accurate sound signature with particular strength in vocal reproduction.

Midrange Strengths:

• Natural vocal timbre for both male and female singers
• Excellent instrument separation and layering
• Smooth frequency response without harsh peaks
• Reasonably tuned with generous helping of vocals around 2.5 kHz

Treble

High notes remain "crisp and clean" while avoiding the harshness that is present in many budget IEMs. The treble extension is impressive for a single dynamic driver, providing airiness without sibilance.

Treble Performance:

• Controlled elevation that avoids typical single driver ringing
• Excellent cymbal and percussion reproduction
• Extended frequency response to 25kHz
• Long-listening comfort without fatigue

The Alba proves that single dynamic drivers can deliver refined treble when properly implemented.

Comfort

Meze Audio’s attention to ergonomics shines through in the Alba's design. They have a small, low-profile build that fit very comfortably into our ears, and is one of the only pairs of in ears we’ve worn that are so light you can forget you are wearing them. The Alba is great for extended listening sessions across different ear shapes and sizes and is one of the most comfortable IEMs we’ve tested.

Comfort Features:

• Compact, lightweight zinc alloy construction
• Ergonomic shell design for secure fit
• Multiple ear tip options included
• Minimal pressure points during long sessions

Build Quality

The build quality immediately sets the Alba apart from typical budget IEMs. Using durable materials like zinc alloy and anodized aluminum, Meze has created an IEM that feels substantially more expensive than its asking price. The Alba feels very solid and is one of the most durable IEMs we’ve seen—all while staying incredibly light and comfortable.

Construction Highlights:

• Durable zinc alloy and aluminum construction
• Meze's signature aesthetic design
• Quality cable with minimal memory wire
• Robust strain relief and connector design

Technical Specifications

Driver Configuration:

• 1x 10.8mm dynamic driver
• Custom-tuned frequency response

Technical Stats:

• Frequency Response: 15Hz-25kHz
• Impedance: 32Ω
• Sensitivity: 109dB SPL
• Cable: High-quality OFC with minimal memory wire
• Connector: 3.5mm with included USB-C DAC/AMP

The included USB-C adapter with built-in DAC/AMP is particularly noteworthy, making the Alba immediately compatible with modern smartphones without headphone jacks.

Value for Money

The Alba definitely provides an excellent value at its $159 price. Meze Audio’s entry into the IEM market delivers impressive sound, value, and accessories that punch above its price tag, making it an excellent entry point into high-fidelity audio.

How It Competes

vs. Sennheiser IE 100 Pro ($80): The Alba matches the IE 100 Pro's professional tuning while offering better build quality and more engaging bass response.

vs. Shure SE215 ($110): The Alba provides cleaner, more detailed sound with superior build quality, making the price difference worthwhile for most users.

vs. Final Audio E3000 ($50): While the E3000 offers excellent value, the Alba's superior extension, build quality, and included accessories justify the price premium.

Final Verdict

The Meze Audio Alba is an incredible entry-level IEM, with great sound, comfort, and a lasting build. It succeeds in bringing Meze's premium design philosophy to an accessible price point without compromise.