I think the differences are exactly as you describe. The LCD X have a more enveloping sound, but the soundstage is better on the Neumann.
The bass on the LCD seem to have more sub and extension - so that may sway your choice.
I would say if you can only pickup one, I’d probably recommend going for a set of headphones.
I rationalized my LCD X with the exact same mentality. Boy math if I’ve ever seen it 🤣
I had a bit of a rocky start with them too - although after some tweaking things are better than I’ve ever heard on a set of headphones.
I’m still dialling in my perfect eq, but I have no doubts that these headphones are keepers.
This is Qobuz, I’m not familiar with Mike!
Happy days! Let me know how they treat you, would be very interested to hear your opinion.
Check out: Headflux - Vitriol
It’s not my taste in music usually, but on the LCD-X it sounds absolutely wild if you want to hear something a bit weird.
I’ve wanted a set of LCD-X for a number of years now and finally saved up enough to get my hands on a pair.
They’re my first serious headphone so I don’t really have a point of reference to other offerings on the market, but they’re just as enjoyable to listen to as my Neumann KH120 which is saying something.
They feel beautiful in the hands, and despite my concerns over weight, they’re incredibly comfortable to wear. The distribution of the weight works wonders.
I’ve paired them up with a SubPac for tactile bass, and it’s mind-blowing how enveloping the sound is when they’re both dialled in.
I still have mixed feelings on the Oratory preset, but the more I listen, the more my ears adjust.
I recently picked up a set of LCD-X and it took about 2 weeks for me to fully realise how much j loved them. I generally don't even EQ them - I just adore how they sound.
Audeze make incredible headphones. Enjoy them Sir!