Packaging and Accessories

So I didn't mention this on the previous page, but the Meze Alba also comes with a portable dongle, going from USB Type-C on the input side to 3.5 mm output on the other to allow you to use the Alba with your phone or laptop without needing a separate DAC/amp. This is very cool to see, and it ships in a separate box on top of the IEM product box itself, with both being sealed together using plastic wrap. The IEM product box, as with the IEMs themselves, goes for a white color and is quite clean looking. On the front is the brand logo and a geometric pattern, with the back side confirming these IEMs were manufactured in China to Meze's design and specifications to help save cost. The product name is on the sides, and you can lift off the lid to reveal the contents inside.


Inside the box is some paperwork going over the use and maintenance of the IEMs as well as how to connect the IEM cables if you are new to using them. A cardboard layer then holds the IEMs themselves as well as the carry case in separate compartments, and I appreciate the pull tags allowing the end user to more easily extract the IEMs. The case is relatively small and thus easily pocketable, although it doesn't feel luxurious necessarily. You will note the zipper tag is not moving smoothly, for example, and the outer material is not using the finest leather, let's just put it that way. The sealing zipper adds some dust and spill resistance, and the inside is lined with soft fabric for added protection. Here is also where you will find the IEM cable and ear tips, and the extra compartment inside can help store the dongle too—it can be a tight fit though!


The Alba comes with one set of ear tips pre-installed, making for a total of four sets of silicone ear tips in the box in sizes S/M/L/XL. But I will note that these run smaller than usual, meaning I found myself using L rather than the size M (medium) I typically go with. It would have been nice to see more ear tips in the box, especially seeing how we get far less expensive IEMs these days doing so, but at least these feel reasonably well-built and generally comfortable.


Now we get to that other box which clearly identifies the contents as a USB Type-C to headphone jack adapter. Inside is the cable adapter itself, packed securely to prevent any issues during transit, and using metal hardware with Meze branding. It also uses the same cable materials as on the analog IEM cable itself, so let's examine that on the next page now.