Romanian audio manufacturer Meze Audio has unveiled its latest product, the Meze ALBA in-ear monitors (IEMs), marking a significant expansion in their portfolio of high-end audio equipment. Known for their high-quality over-ear headphones and premium in-ear monitors, Meze Audio is now offering a more accessible option for those looking to experience superior audio quality without breaking the bank.
The ALBA, which translates to “First Light” in Romanian, is positioned as an entry-level product designed to introduce users to the world of high-end earphones. The Meze ALBA earphones were first showcased at the High End Munich event in May 2024, drawing attention for their elegant pearl white finish and their practicality in the modern audio landscape.
“It was a combination of factors that brought ALBA into existence. Coming from a musical background, having maintained direct contact with our customers daily, and being an audiophile myself for the better part of a decade, really helped me understand the expectations for a complete and immersive listening experience,” says product manager, Vlad Toca.
“Designed for those who dance to their own beat, for the curious and the free-spirited, ALBA comprises a perfectly accessible and qualitative introduction into the world of elevated audio enjoyment.”
The Meze ALBA earphones are designed to provide a balanced audio experience with a slight warmth, characteristic of wired earphones. They feature a single 10.8mm dynamic driver in each earpiece, capable of delivering a frequency range of 15-25kHz. This setup aims to offer listeners a neutral sound profile, suitable for a variety of music genres, while maintaining the detail and clarity expected from high-quality IEMs.
A key feature of the Meze ALBA is its robust construction, combining zinc alloy and anodized aluminum parts. This should not only ensure durability but also preserve the earphones’ pearlescent appearance. Meze Audio has clearly focused on both form and function, ensuring that the ALBA earphones can withstand daily use while maintaining their aesthetic appeal.
In addition to the traditional 3.5mm jack, the Meze ALBA comes with a custom-made USB-C adapter, complete with a built-in digital-to-analog converter (DAC). This inclusion makes the ALBA versatile, allowing users to connect to a wide range of devices, including the latest smartphones that have transitioned to USB-C ports.
The built-in DAC supports high-resolution audio up to 32-bit/384kHz, enhancing the audio quality from digital sources and ensuring compatibility with most high-res audio streaming content, excluding MQA and DSD formats.
The ALBA’s package includes four sizes of silicone ear tips (S, M, L, XL), providing a comfortable and secure fit for various ear shapes and sizes. The earphones also come with a zippered, hard-shell travel case, which has space for the earphones and all included accessories, making it convenient for users to carry their audio gear on the go.
For those who prefer balanced connections, the ALBA’s 2-pin style cable connection allows for the purchase of a 4.4mm balanced cable separately, providing flexibility for users who seek a more customized audio experience. The gold-plated 3.5mm connector ensures a reliable connection and enhanced signal quality, contributing to the overall immersive listening experience.
Technical Specifications:
Priced at $159/£139/€159, the Meze ALBA earphones are set to compete with other well-regarded models in the market. Meze Audio’s ALBA earphones will be available for pre-order from June 20, 2024, through their official website.
