EPZ P40 vs Meze Audio Alba: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the EPZ P40 comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 82. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: EPZ P40 - Great overall at around $160.

Wired IEMs

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

EPZ P40 leads on 2 of 4 measures.

EPZ P40
Meze Audio Alba

HearWiki score

Sound

8.5

7.5

Value

8.0

Price (USD)

$160

Generation & platform

The scores rank quality. This is the other question: is the newer one actually newer technology, or the same platform in a new shell?

Same generation

The EPZ P40 is 2 years newer, but it is the same generation of hardware: nothing in the radio, the codecs or the noise cancelling separates them. Nothing separates them on convenience features either, so the choice comes down to tuning and price.

P4020262 yr newer
Alba2024

Specifications

P40Alba

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $160; $160
HearWiki score: 82; 72
Released: 2026; 2024
Availability: Sold new; Discontinued
Driver: 2DD + 1PL + 1PZT tribrid; 1DD
Driver type: tribrid; dynamic
Driver configuration: 2DD + 1PL + 1PZT; 1DD
Driver size: -; 10.8 mm
Drivers per side: 4; 1
Impedance: 14 Ω; 32 Ω
Sensitivity: -; 109 dB/mW
Active noise cancelling: No; No
Weight: -; 14 g
Detachable cable: -; Yes
Connector: 2-pin 0.78 mm; 2-pin 0.78 mm

Specification comparison of EPZ P40 vs Meze Audio Alba
Spec	EPZ P40	Meze Audio Alba
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$160	$160
HearWiki score	82 / 100 Great	72 / 100 Good
Released	2026	2024
Audio
Driver	2DD + 1PL + 1PZT tribrid	1DD
Driver type	tribrid	dynamic
Driver configuration	2DD + 1PL + 1PZT	1DD
Driver size	-	10.8 mm
Drivers per side	4	1
Impedance	14 Ω	32 Ω
Sensitivity	-	109 dB/mW
Features
Active noise cancelling	No	No
Design
Weight	-	14 g
Detachable cable	-	Yes
Connector	2-pin 0.78 mm	2-pin 0.78 mm

What reviewers said

EPZ P40

The EPZ P40 is a wired tribrid IEM that delivers a clean, technically strong sound with excellent midrange presence, controlled bass, and precise imaging for its price. While it shines in resolution and transparency, its tuning can feel sharp or cold to some ears, and it falls just short of class-leading treble refinement. Overall, it's a compelling option under $200 for listeners who value clarity and detail over warmth.

Pro:Excellent midrange clarity and vocal presence
Pro:Tight, well-defined bass response
Pro:Strong technical performance with precise imaging

Con:Treble lacks some extension and refinement
Con:Tuning may come across as sharp or shouty
Con:Limited included eartips

Meze Audio Alba

The Meze Audio Alba is a lightweight, wired single-dynamic-driver IEM that delivers a mildly V-shaped, engaging sound with solid build quality and strong comfort. It performs well as an entry-level option around its price point, offering coherent tonality and good value, though its treble can be slightly intense and the stock cable may frustrate some users. Overall, it's a capable, well-rounded choice for those seeking a natural yet lively listen without extra features like noise cancellation.

Pro:Comfortable and featherlight design
Pro:Coherent, engaging sound signature
Pro:Good build quality for the price

Con:Treble can run a bit hot for sensitive listeners
Con:Included cable is awkward to handle
Con:Stock ear tips may not suit everyone

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

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