I think it really depends on which of the two models you're comparing. Both are available in H, HS, and HH pickup configurations. Then there's even a Piezo option too.
For what its worth I've owned several single H StingRays and a HH Bongo. All were excellent basses but I have to admit, I loved the Bongo the most.
IMO the single H Bongo is best of the bunch. Its simple and straightforward like a classic StingRay, but with all the modern refinements of the Bongo.
+1 The H Bongo and the HH Bongo are my favourites. Bongos are more comfortable to play than Stingrays for me.
Props to all you who have gotten past the look of the Bongo. Frankly, I'm not there yet.
Maybe I'm just too image conscious, and/or an incurable traditionalist. But I just can't help but wonder if in 10-15 years the Bongo is going to have that "dated" vibe that Steinbergers and Kubickis have today.
IMO if the Bongo had been invented in the late 60's or early 1970s, it would already rank with the greats in our minds. It would have stood head and shoulders above its rivals and put a world experimenting with new music on its ear. Imagine Pink Floyd or Parliament with a Bongo. Imagine Bootsy with a Bongo.
The looks aren't something to 'get past'. IMO they look great from most angles, and feel great to play. There are none of the ergonomic or balance issues that prevented some of the less popular designs from achieving star status. Yes they are styled a bit different but the same basic shape is there, the comfort is there, the sound is there, the build quality is there and the style is there.
IMO the Bongo is sweet through and through and definitely deserves a permanent place amongst the truly great designs of the last 150 years. And a place on the stages of great musicians who have already recognized it for what it is and put it right up on stage with some of the greatest acts of all time.
A Few:
Pino Palladino (The Who)
Tony Levin (Peter Gabriel, King Crimson)
Gail Ann Dorsey (David Bowie, Gwen Stefani)
Dave LaRue (Joe Satriani)
John Myung (Dream Theatre)
Cliff Hugo (Supertramp)
The Bongo is the real deal and here to stay.
