Meze Audio Alba Review…
Meze Audio has been a brand I’ve respected ever since I reviewed their Rai Penta. Now, they’ve ventured into the $150 segment with their Alba model, and I’m eager to see how it stacks up. Featuring a single dynamic driver with a 10.8 mm transducer, Alba brings Meze’s signature musicality into a more budget-friendly package. For this review, I tested it using both a 3.5 mm and a 4.4 mm balanced cable on sources like the R4 DAP and Cayin N6ii, with high-resolution tracks from Qobuz offline. Let’s dive into the details.,
Technical Sound Details
The Meze Alba comes equipped with a 10.8 mm dynamic driver, offering a broad frequency range (15 Hz – 25 kHz). Upon first listen, it delivers a sound that’s spacious yet composed, with soft micro-details that enhance its transparency, especially at this price point. The clarity is impressive, but to catch those subtle nuances, you’ll need to listen closely. It’s important to remember this isn’t a flagship-tier product, so expecting the same level of technical prowess as something like the Mangird Xenns Top would be unrealistic.
Bass
Alba’s bass is deep and authoritative without overpowering the rest of the spectrum. In darker, more intense tracks like Russian Circles, the bass shines with detail and control. Even at higher volumes, it maintains composure, showing no signs of bloat or muddiness. Testing it with Primus – American Life (2013 Mix) revealed that the bass guitar riffs and drum hits were clear, with each note distinct and impactful. Switching to a 4.4 mm balanced cable slightly elevates its bass response, offering a tighter grip on lower frequencies.
Midrange
The midrange is where the Alba truly stands out with its well-balanced, neutral presentation. On tracks like Eric Clapton’s Sweet Home Chicago, it beautifully captures the 60s psychedelic rock vibe, with clear separation between instruments and vocals. Mid frequencies are neither recessed nor overly forward; they’re positioned just right to let instruments breathe. Listening to Arcade Fire – Laika confirmed that it handles sudden transitions and sharp vocal peaks smoothly, maintaining a fluid sound throughout.
Treble
The treble performance is bright but never harsh. On Toto’s Africa, the highs come through with a warmth that avoids any piercing sharpness, while cymbal crashes remain crisp without overwhelming the listener. That said, some might find the treble lacking a bit of sparkle. In electronic genres like Daft Punk and The Glitch Mob, Alba’s treble takes on a vintage-like tone, keeping an airy vibe between each hit. Paired with the Cayin N6ii, this vintage character becomes even more enjoyable, adding a layer of warmth to the overall sound.
Pros:
• Balanced and spacious soundstage.
• Deep, controlled bass with impressive layering.
• Clear and well-separated midrange with excellent instrument placement.
• Noticeable improvement in performance with 4.4 mm balanced cable.
• High transparency and detail level for its price.
Cons:
• Treble might lack the sparkle some listeners seek.
• At higher volumes, certain details can become slightly blurred.
• Fit can be challenging with Dunu eartips during prolonged use.,
Meze Audio Alba Review Conclusion
In conclusion,
Meze Audio Alba shines as a strong contender in the $150 price range. While it doesn’t quite reach the technical heights of the Rai Penta, it brings Meze’s matured sound signature to a more accessible price point. Particularly with the 4.4 mm balanced cable, and a high-quality source, it truly unlocks its potential, delivering a sound quality that punches well above its price. Listening to The Raconteurs – Many Shades of Black left me pleasantly surprised, with Alba holding its own against much pricier IEMs.
If you’re in the market for an IEM that offers a great balance of musicality, detail, and transparency at an affordable price, the Meze Audio Alba is a solid pick. Highly recommended for those looking to experience Meze’s craftsmanship without breaking the bank.