Overview

The Meze Audio Alba is the Romanian company’s most accessible IEM at 159 USD. It uses a single 10.8 mm dynamic driver in a zinc-alloy + anodized-aluminum shell, ships with a 2-pin detachable cable, four sizes of silicone tips, a carry case, and a custom 3.5 mm-to-USB-C adapter with a built-in DAC/amp for modern device compatibility. [1]

Scientific Validity

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Independent lab data show strong objective performance. RTINGS measures RMS deviation from target of 2.1 dB with excellent bass/mid/treble target compliance and outstanding harmonic distortion (0.04% @94 dB SPL, 0.09% @104 dB SPL); low-frequency extension reaches 20 Hz. Their measurements also confirm near-identical response via the included USB-C dongle. [2] Sensitivity/impedance around 109 dB (1 Vrms) / 32 Ω are documented in professional testing, supporting easy drivability. [4] Collectively these numbers indicate clean, near-transparent reproduction for an entry-level wired IEM.

Technology Level

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Alba relies on a conventional single dynamic driver with undisclosed diaphragm/magnet details and a standard 0.78 mm 2-pin interface. The metal shell and basic venting are well-executed but not innovative relative to current state-of-the-art driver or acoustic tech. [4]

Cost-Performance

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We compare across classes by functions + measured performance. A not-worse alternative is MOONDROP Kadenz: includes a balanced USB-C DAC cable (ECHO-B) and 3.5 mm adapter in box [7][8], and specifies THD ≤ 0.03% @1 kHz, 94 dB with a similar single-DD architecture. Current official pricing is 219.99 USD. [6][7]
CP ratio = 219.99 USD ÷ 159 USD = 1.383… ⇒ bracket 1.0.
Alba therefore offers top-tier cost-performance in today’s market.

Reliability & Support

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Warranty: Alba carries 2 years (EU) and 1 year (non-EU) coverage; accessories 6 months. [3] Service time cap: repairs/replacements must be completed within a reasonable period not exceeding 15 calendar days. [5] Construction (zinc alloy + anodized aluminum) and a simple single-driver layout with a detachable cable support durability. Overall above-average outlook balanced by the standard (not global 2-year) term.

Rationality of Design Philosophy

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Meze states a philosophy centered on “creation of beauty”—prioritizing form, feel, and emotional engagement alongside engineering. [6] This art-first stance is not a rejection of measurements (as results are solid) but it does place aesthetic/experiential aims on par with technical optimization, hence a mid-scale score.

Advice

Alba is a superb entry point if you want neutral-with-warmth tuning plus metal build and instant USB-C compatibility in the box. If you value DSP features and a bundled balanced USB-C DAC and can spend more, the MOONDROP Kadenz is a strong not-worse alternative at a higher price. If you need stronger passive isolation, consider models with foam tips or deeper-insertion shells.

References

1. Meze Audio — “ALBA” product page, https://mezeaudio.com/products/alba , accessed 2025-09-03
2. RTINGS — “Meze ALBA Review” (measurement data), https://www.rtings.com/headphones/reviews/meze/alba , accessed 2025-09-03
3. Meze Audio — Warranty & Returns (Alba 2y EU / 1y non-EU; accessories 6 mo), https://mezeaudio.com/pages/warranty , accessed 2025-09-03
4. Headfonics — “Meze Audio ALBA Review” (specs/materials), https://headfonics.com/meze-audio-alba-review/ , accessed 2025-09-03
5. Meze Audio — Terms & Conditions (15-day repair cap), https://mezeaudio.com/pages/terms , accessed 2025-09-03
6. MOONDROP — “Kadenz” official page (price), https://moondroplab.com/en/products/kadenz , accessed 2025-09-03
7. Headfonics — “MOONDROP Kadenz Review” (included ECHO-B USB-C DAC & adapters), https://headfonics.com/moondrop-kadenz-review/ , accessed 2025-09-03
8. Linsoul — “MOONDROP Kadenz” (spec: THD ≤ 0.03% @1 kHz, 94 dB), https://www.linsoul.com/products/moondrop-kadenz , accessed 2025-09-03

(2025.9.3)