I finally was able to spend sometime with an LCD i4 and compare it against the UMME-1. Not an expert enjoy the discovery of new music , sounds,etc. This is pretty short a lot of websites have really in depth detail reviews. Both units are fantastic new approaches to the IEM market. Its great that Audeze and Unique Melody have taking the step.
a) Comfort or ergonomics: I found body bodies to work fine with my ears. The attachment of the LCDi4 is not an easy as the UM ME-1. Both need tip rolling to find the best seal. However the UM had always a best seal in my mind
b) Weight , both fell pretty close, however when walking around in my house I felt more secure and even feel with the UM-1
c) Looks. I like the LCD look, however when wearing outside if my home. The UM look much more normal
d) Amplification: Using my X5 3rd Gen with a Fiio A5. The UM ME-1 was really great, the LCD felt the need for a bigger amp. AS I purchased the IEM's for easy transport and use. The Sony Xperia XZ Premium drover the UM very well. The same with an LG V30. The Audeze seem to want more power !!!!
Cable) I like no doubt the UM cable the most,weight, look,etc. Sound wise I only have the original cable with each
Sound) No Eq on the ME-1, however I seem to need an EQ with my LCD a lot more. Sound stage, detail retrieval, bass and clarity are both fantastic. Sound isolation in a Starbucks, go UM ME-1. The Audeze did not give me th same isolation. In particular testing Bubbles - Yosi Horikawa, these units gave me a lot more detail that my BA/DD IEM's
I like both units and the sound signature, will be looking for a nice Christmas present !!!! to have both planars. No doubt Audeze is almost 2.5 x the UM. But we have to understand that the Audeze are made in USA California and this really is heavy in cost versus China