Unique Melody “From The Start” — A New Beginning for Entry-Level Excellence
Unique Melody, a name long associated with cutting-edge innovation in the world of in-ear monitors, takes a thoughtful step into the entry-level space with “From The Start” — also known as Tài Qǐ (太起) in Mandarin. This model isn’t just a budget-friendly offering; it’s a strong statement that audiophile quality can start from the very beginning.
Design & Build: Artistic Yet Practical
“From The Start” features a 3D-printed shell that offers precise ergonomics tailored for long listening sessions. What stands out most is the handcrafted faceplate — no two are exactly the same. The faceplate design blends soft gradients with a splash of artisan flair, giving the IEM a visual identity beyond its price point.
Despite its entry-level status, build quality is reassuringly premium. The housing feels solid and light, and the nozzle shape supports a good seal for passive isolation. It’s the kind of design that speaks to UM’s experience in both aesthetics and fit.
Technical Highlights
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Driver Configuration: 1x Dynamic Driver
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Cable: Detachable 2-pin 0.78mm
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Stock Cable: 4-core oxygen-free copper
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Included Accessories:
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BlueCore ear tips
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Cleaning cloth
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Dual-layer mesh carrying pouch
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The IEM is designed to be straightforward: no multi-driver configurations, no hybrids — just a well-voiced dynamic driver delivering a clean, honest sound.
Sound Performance
Bass
The low-end performance is where “From The Start” shines beyond expectation. The single dynamic driver delivers a surprisingly mature bass response — warm, rounded, and textured without being overbearing. Sub-bass rumble is present but controlled, ideal for modern genres like pop, EDM, and hip-hop.
Mids
Mids are natural and intimate, offering great vocal clarity and a pleasing timbre for instruments like guitars and pianos. There’s a hint of warmth that enhances musicality, especially in acoustic or vocal-driven tracks.
Treble
The treble is polite yet open. It doesn’t attempt to dazzle with excessive sparkle, which helps maintain fatigue-free listening. Extension is modest but smooth, ensuring that cymbals and strings retain their shimmer without harshness.
Soundstage & Imaging
Considering its price, the soundstage is impressively airy. Imaging is precise, with a clear sense of left-right placement and decent depth, though not as layered as UM’s higher-end models. It strikes a great balance between immersion and focus.
Who Is It For?
“From The Start” is ideal for:
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First-time IEM users
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Casual listeners who want to upgrade from consumer-grade earbuds
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Audiophiles seeking a compact, musical single-DD backup
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Gift-givers looking for something premium-looking without the high price tag
Verdict: Entry-Level Done Right
“From The Start” isn’t trying to be the most analytical IEM on the market — and that’s its charm. It focuses on what matters: comfort, musicality, and delivering a joyful listening experience without overwhelming the listener. It’s a beautifully tuned, high-quality gateway into the world of in-ear monitors, living up to its name by providing a strong foundation… from the start.
“Still in the break-in period, very powerful. The shell is small, fits well in the ear, and isolation is great. The bass is solid and elastic, and vocals are forward. For classical music or instrumental, it may not be ideal, but it suits popular music very well. I’ve been using it continuously for three days, very enjoyable!”
“UM From the Start, single dynamic HiFi earphones – UM’s budget model, yet it punches way above its weight. The sound is rich, with deep bass, full vocals, and outstanding high frequency extension. Treble is bright but not sharp, the detail retrieval is impressive without being overly aggressive. Under a 4.4mm balanced output, the bass opens up more — very much worth the price.
#hifi #UM”“Received the treasure, beautiful appearance, can clearly hear instrument separation. Packaging is solid, very powerful.”