Wired IEMs
Kiwi Ears KE4
84Outstanding
$200
Full review dataKiwi Ears KE4 vs Meze Audio Alba: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the Kiwi Ears KE4 comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 84. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Our pick: Kiwi Ears KE4 - Outstanding overall at around $199.
Wired IEMs
Meze Audio Alba
80Great
$160
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
Kiwi Ears KE4 leads on 3 of 4 measures.
- Kiwi Ears KE4
- Meze Audio Alba
HearWiki score
84
80
Sound
8.6
8.2
Value
8.6
7.8
Price (USD)
$200
$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
Both shipped in 2024. These are 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.
- KE42024
- Audio Alba2024
Specifications
KE4Audio Alba
- Type
- Wired IEMs
- Wired IEMs
- Price (USD)
- $200
- $160
- HearWiki score
- 84
- 80
- Released
- 2024
- 2024
- Availability
- Still sold new
- Still sold new
- Driver
- 2DD + 2BA hybrid
- 10.8 mm dynamic
- Driver type
- hybrid
- dynamic
- Driver configuration
- 2DD + 2BA
- -
- Driver size
- 10 mm
- 10.8 mm
- Drivers per side
- 4
- 1
- Frequency response
- -
- 15 Hz - 25 kHz
- Sound signature
- -
- warm
- Impedance
- 28 Ω
- 32 Ω
- Sensitivity
- -
- 109 dB/mW
- Active noise cancelling
- No
- No
- Weight
- -
- 14 g
- Detachable cable
- Yes
- Yes
- USB-C
- -
- Yes
- Connector
- 3.5 mm
- 2-pin 0.78 mm
What reviewers said
Kiwi Ears KE4
The Kiwi Ears KE4 is a wired hybrid IEM that offers a balanced, relaxing sound with a distinct twist on the popular 'New Meta' tuning, adding extra bass and treble sparkle. It delivers solid midrange clarity and a comfortable fit, making it a versatile choice for many genres, though its smooth presentation may not excite those seeking aggressive or highly dynamic sound.
- Pro:Well-balanced hybrid tuning with rich lower mids and airy treble
- Pro:Comfortable fit and broad genre versatility
- Pro:Good resolution and clarity for its price
- Con:Sub-bass can get overpowering at times
- Con:Limited resolving power and dynamic impact
- Con:Smooth tuning may feel less exciting than V-shaped alternatives
Meze Audio Alba
The Meze Alba is a lightweight, wired IEM with a warm, mild V-shaped sound that suits a wide range of music. Its 10.8mm dynamic driver is easy to drive from any source, and the included USB-C adapter adds convenience, making it a strong value pick for everyday listening.
- Pro:Comfortable, lightweight build (14g)
- Pro:Warm, engaging tuning with good bass
- Pro:Easy to drive; works without an amp
- Con:No built-in microphone
- Con:Stock cable and tips may need upgrading
- Con:Sound lacks a standout specialty
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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