Meze Audio Alba

Meze Audio Alba In-Ear Headphones

The Meze Audio Alba in-ear headphones are designed to offer an accessible introduction to the Meze sound signature. Aimed at music lovers on the go, the Alba stands out with its neutral sound with a slight touch of warmth, providing a precise and pleasant listening experience.

Sound Performance

The Alba is equipped with a 10.8 mm dynamic driver, a key feature that contributes to the exceptional sound quality of these headphones. This driver is capable of producing deep and rich bass, clear and detailed mids, as well as crisp and precise highs.

With a sound pressure level (SPL) of 109 dB, the Alba can produce high volume without distortion, ensuring an immersive and dynamic listening experience. This feature is particularly appreciated by music enthusiasts who want to hear all the sonic details of their favorite tracks.

Sound Signature

Their sound signature is intended to be neutral and balanced, with a slight touch of warmth. The goal is to offer a natural, detailed, and immersive reproduction, highlighting the harmonic richness of the instruments. The Alba focuses on realistic soundstage spatialization, with a beautiful sense of openness and depth. Each element is well distinct and localized, whether in width or depth. The dynamics are on point, with sharp and precise attacks.

In the bass, the Alba delivers fast and textured lows, without masking the lower mids. Vocals are clear and nuanced, with a beautiful presence across the spectrum. In the highs, the reproduction is detailed and airy, without excessive emphasis or harshness.

USB-C Adapter and Integrated DAC

To adapt to the latest generations of smartphones and other modern devices, the Alba comes with a USB-C adapter including a digital-to-analog converter (DAC). This integrated DAC significantly improves sound quality, offering a superior audio experience compared to a direct connection via the traditional headphone jack. This feature makes the Alba compatible with a wide range of devices, including those with a 3.5 mm headphone jack.

Materials and Construction

The Alba is designed with a blend of zinc and anodized aluminum, giving the headphones exceptional robustness while maintaining a sophisticated aesthetic. The iridescent white finish adds a touch of luxury and modernity. This choice of materials ensures not only the durability of the product but also an appearance that remains impeccable even after prolonged use.

Ergonomics and Comfort

Ergonomics were a central focus in the design of the Alba. The headphones come with silicone tips available in four different sizes (S, M, L, XL), ensuring a perfect fit for every user. This variety of tips ensures not only optimal comfort but also effective sound isolation, allowing you to enjoy music without being disturbed by external noise.

Comparison with Competitors

With a price point around €150, the Meze Audio Alba earphones face stiff competition. However, they stand out with their refined design, the inclusion of a USB-C adapter with an integrated DAC, and the promise of high-end sound quality inherited from the brand’s more premium models.

Compared to the Sennheiser IE 300, for example, the Alba offers a warmer and more enveloping sound, whereas the German earphones prioritize neutrality and transparency. The Final Audio A4000 adopts a more analytical signature with greater clarity in the high spectrum.

Key Features of the Meze Audio Alba Earphones

• Elegant and timeless design with a pearlescent finish
• Robust construction with zinc alloy and anodized aluminum
• 10.8 mm dynamic driver with extended performance
• Neutral and natural sound signature with a touch of warmth
• Realistic soundstage spatialization
• Fast and precise dynamics across the spectrum
• Comfortable use with a wide selection of ear tips
• Included USB-C adapter with integrated DAC
• Convenient carrying case for on-the-go use

Technical Specifications

Construction

• Premium zinc alloy die-cast
• Anodized aluminum finish
• Pearlescent shell
• Custom silicone tips

Audio Performance

• 10.8 mm dynamic driver
• Frequency response: 15 Hz - 25 kHz
• Impedance: 32 Ω
• Sound pressure level: 109 dB / mW
• Harmonic distortion: < 0.1% at 1 kHz

Dimensions and Weight

• Dimensions: 13.3 × 11.7 × 3.8 cm
• Weight without cable: approximately 14 g
• Total weight with packaging: approximately 193 g

Box Contents

• In-ear headphones
• Rigid faux leather carrying case
• 4 pairs of ear tips (sizes S, M, L, XL)
• Standard braided silver-plated cable
  • 2-pin connector to 3.5 mm mini-jack
• 3.5 mm mini-jack to USB-C adapter
  • Built-in digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and amplifier
• User manual