SWR SM-400 vs. Workingmans 4004

I have a SM-400 that i've been playing out with for most of the last year.I keep trying different tubes and tweaking the settings.I like it but it still leaves something to be desired.This is also my first half tube half solid state(i've noticed I'm a bit younger than the more informed gentlemen on this fine site so please bare with me i'm still learning).My drummer has a fender SWR Workingman 4004 that I have used a few times and I really liked the sound that came out of it.The eq was a bit easier to deal with too.It took me a while to figure out the SM but once I knew what I was doing it was much easier.I dont know if tubes simply are not for me or if I just need to try different tubes and broaden my knowledge on the subject.I know alot of this is perception and varies from person to person/playing style/room size.I play alot of slappy agressive funk and use the double thumb technique shown in the Vic Wooten bass workshop DVD and Primus covers or just finger style.I play pretty hard though not so hard that I break strings often.I usually play medium to small bars and clubs.I guess my question is should I just buy a 4004 or should I keep trying different things with the SM400?

 

^^^ Wow thank you that was incredibly helpful.It does do pretty well for the hole i'm digging and A compressor would probably make a huge difference.I have an old DOD basstec multi fx pedal that has a comp but its is really weird or i dont understand it(more likely)I think i will try throwing my fet pre amp into the effects loop and see what that does and get a decent compressor.Thanks again

 

That has been my experience.I have only tried a JJtesla, an Electro Harmonix ,and an RCA.Not a whole lot of difference in this head.Is this common among half tube heads or is the small difference in tubes exclusive to this one in particular? .I've heard good things about amperex and tube doctor but with the little difference ive had thus far i wonder how much trying out more tubes will do?