Wired IEMs
Meze Audio Alba
82Great
$159
Full review dataMeze Audio Alba vs Moondrop Stellaris: 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
Moondrop Stellaris
68Good
$109
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
Meze Audio Alba
Sound8.2
Value8.5
Moondrop Stellaris
Sound6.5
Value6.0
Specifications
| Spec | Meze Audio Alba | Moondrop Stellaris |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Wired IEMs | Wired IEMs |
| Price (USD) | $159 | $109 |
| HearWiki score | 82 / 100 · Great | 68 / 100 · Good |
| Released | 2024 | 2023 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | 10.8mm dynamic | 14.5mm Planar |
| Driver size | 10.8 mm | 14.5 mm |
| Drivers per side | 1 | 1 |
| Frequency response | 15Hz-25kHz | 10Hz-50kHz |
| Impedance | 32 Ω | 36 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 109 dB/mW | 117 dB/mW |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | No | - |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 14 g | - |
| Detachable cable | Yes | - |
| USB-C | Yes | - |
What reviewers said
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
Moondrop Stellaris
The Moondrop Stellaris is a budget planar IEM that impresses with its fast, detailed, and technically capable sound, offering a spacious and clear presentation. However, its tuning is notably bright and energetic, with emphasized upper mids and treble that can be polarizing, alongside a shell design that may not fit everyone comfortably. It's a niche pick for those who prioritize speed and resolution over a balanced, all-rounder signature.
- Pro:Excellent speed and clarity
- Pro:Strong detail and separation
- Pro:Spacious, airy soundstage
- Con:Bright, aggressive tuning
- Con:Lacks bass weight
- Con:Fit can be uncomfortable
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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