Wired IEMs
FiiO FA1
72Good
$99
Full review dataFiiO FA1 vs Meze Audio Alba: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the Meze Audio Alba comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 82. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Our pick: Meze Audio Alba - Great overall at around $159.
Wired IEMs
Meze Audio Alba
82Great
$160
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
FiiO FA1
Sound7.2
Value7.5
Meze Audio Alba
Sound8.2
Value8.5
Specifications
| Spec | FiiO FA1 | Meze Audio Alba |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Wired IEMs | Wired IEMs |
| Price (USD) | $99 | $160 |
| HearWiki score | 72 / 100 · Good | 82 / 100 · Great |
| Released | 2020 | 2024 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | Knowles ED-33357 balanced armature | 10.8mm dynamic |
| Driver size | - | 10.8 mm |
| Drivers per side | 1 | 1 |
| Frequency response | 20Hz-40kHz | 15Hz-25kHz |
| Impedance | 15 Ω | 32 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 111 dB/mW | 109 dB/mW |
| Wireless | ||
| Multipoint pairing | No | - |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | No | No |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 4.5 g | 14 g |
| Detachable cable | Yes | Yes |
| USB-C | No | Yes |
What reviewers said
FiiO FA1
The FiiO FA1 is a compact, wired single-balanced-armature IEM that delivers a clear, forward, and balanced sound signature, making it a strong value for detail-oriented listeners. Its lightweight build, comfortable fit, and high sensitivity make it easy to drive, though its bass response is notably restrained and may not satisfy those seeking deep low-end impact. While technically capable for the price, its tuning can occasionally sound artificial or slightly harsh in the mids when pushed.
- Pro:Lightweight and comfortable fit
- Pro:Clear, resolving treble and upper mids
- Pro:Solid build quality with detachable cable
- Con:Limited bass extension and impact
- Con:Lower mids can sound smeared or artificial
- Con:Mids may become harsh at higher volumes
Meze Audio Alba
The Meze Audio Alba is a lightweight, wired IEM that delivers a well-rounded, mildly V-shaped sound with impressive bass and clear separation for its price. It's easy to drive thanks to its high sensitivity, and the included USB-C adapter adds practical convenience, making it a strong value pick for everyday listening. Build quality is solid and the fit is comfortable, though a few minor quirks like the cable and stock tips keep it from being flawless.
- Pro:Engaging, well-tuned sound with good bass
- Pro:Lightweight and comfortable for long sessions
- Pro:Easy to drive without a separate amplifier
- Con:Cable and stock ear tips could be improved
- Con:Treble may be slightly forward for some
- Con:No built-in microphone
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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