Since it entered the market in 2011, Meze Audio became a recognized high-end audio brand, renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship of great sounding headphones and in-ears, sometimes with bold and less conventional gothic-inspired aesthetics. The ALBA in-ears are a fresh approach from the brand, offering a more entry-level product, which is also likely to create traction from consumers unfamiliar with Meze, but sensitive to high-quality wired options that leverage also the convenience of modern USB-C connectivity.
As Meze Audio explains, the Romanian term means “at first light” and is meant to inspire everyone to enter a “world of elevated audio enjoyment.” ALBA is the bridge between the current in-ear market and Meze Audio’s best-in-class collection, perfectly tuned with a neutral sound profile and an added touch of warmth, reminding listeners of the virtues of wired earphones. And thanks to the combination of zinc alloy and anodized aluminum parts, the ALBA’s resilient build doesn’t undermine its precious, lustrous pearl appearance.
With a 10.8mm dynamic driver and a 15-25kHz frequency range, ALBA’s impressive sound profile is kept consistent even at lower listening volumes benefiting from a dynamic response that is able to go up to a sound pressure level (SPL) of 109dB. The in-ears complement the subtle design finish, with specially designed silicone ear tips, included in four sizes (S, M, L, XL) to help users improve comfort and portability.
And out of the box, Meze Audio made sure the ALBA in-ears are ready for a wide range of music sources, including the latest iPhone and all other smartphones with USB-C connectivity, as well as those portable digital players with a 3.5mm headphone socket. Meze includes a cable with a gold-plated 3.5mm connector and also a custom-made USB-C adapter, which features a built-in DAC that boosts the sound quality of the chosen source.
“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 new ALBA earphones are now available on Meze’s own website, priced at $159/€159.
www.mezeaudio.com
