A LML crank is harder than any previous versions and dies seem to be more consistent with grain structure. They are very similar to lb7/Lly cranks in appearance. They just happen to cost less money than the previous cranks. I would use one.
I put an LML in my build and was going to use my stock lbz balancer but my builder ended up using a new LML one as well because it was 60 grams lighter and helped make the balancing easier to do.
AFAIK all lml years are the same.