Aguilar or Mesa Subway D-800

[Al Kraft]

No matter what I do with the Aguilar, it never sounds as thick as the Mesa, nor does it have the depth of tone the Mesa does. That is a subjective description, for sure, but its what I hear. It's more "punch" that it is "slam". KIND of "pokey" sounding. The DI Post-EQ sound on it is great though, but it doesn't translate to the sound coming out of the cabs. Over the years I've seen a lot more people be satisfied with the Aguilar stuff when they play an active bass with a nice preamp. Your experience may differ though.

I agree with that characterization on both heads. It all depends on what someone is looking for as to which may work best...and playing style, instrument, strings, and cab selection are also part of that equation.

I like the overall sound and voicing versatility of the Mesa SW line better, and fully admit to being a bit biased by all my good experiences with Mesa gear and customer service.