Wired IEMs
FiiO FD3
76Great
$100
Full review dataFiiO FD3 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 FD3
Sound7.5
Value8.0
Meze Audio Alba
Sound8.2
Value8.5
Specifications
| Spec | FiiO FD3 | Meze Audio Alba |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Wired IEMs | Wired IEMs |
| Price (USD) | $100 | $160 |
| HearWiki score | 76 / 100 · Great | 82 / 100 · Great |
| Released | 2021 | 2024 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | 12mm dynamic driver with DLC diamond diaphragm | 10.8mm dynamic |
| Driver size | 12 mm | 10.8 mm |
| Drivers per side | 1 | 1 |
| Frequency response | 10 Hz - 40 kHz | 15 Hz - 25 kHz |
| Impedance | 32 Ω | 32 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 111 dB/mW | 109 dB/mW |
| Wireless | ||
| Bluetooth | 5.x | - |
| Multipoint pairing | No | - |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | No | No |
| Controls | buttons | - |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 7 g | 14 g |
| Detachable cable | Yes | Yes |
| USB-C | No | Yes |
What reviewers said
FiiO FD3
The FiiO FD3 is a budget-friendly wired IEM that pairs a 12mm DLC dynamic driver with a semi-open design to deliver punchy, dynamic sound that's easy to drive from any source. It stands out with a premium-feeling build, a generous accessory set, and a light, comfortable fit, making it a strong pick for those stepping back into wired audio. Tuning varies slightly with ear tips and sound tubes, but overall it offers solid resolution and value.
- Pro:Excellent price-to-performance ratio
- Pro:Easy to drive with any device
- Pro:Lightweight and comfortable for long sessions
- Con:No wireless or ANC options
- Con:Tuning can get bright or boomy depending on tips
- Con:Standard and Pro versions differ only by cable
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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