I'm curious if the VH2 is actually closer to the Hagen than the VH4, seeing as they are both considered more of a "modern" take... There seems to be some similarities when watching these comparisons, as well as the aforementioned from Sonic Drive Studio:
@Echopark
I would say that you are correct in thinking the out of phase scenario is the thinner sound. My guess is the “boomy bass low-end” is caused by two preamp signals hitting the phase inverter at the same time. Have you tried adjusting the eq and/or gain on the preamps?
Edit: Not sure...
No offense meant to the Peters from me either, just having fun! I was really interested in the mini when the prototype pictures appeared but ultimately ended up with a VH-2. I'm sure the mini will be awesome when it hits the market! And yes, Diezel rules!
Not my video, but I tried both in the same guitar. As @FLUXX noted, more headroom in the X series. Also, I found it to be tighter in the low end, with more clarity in the highs.
The Mesa cabs (in addition to being rear-loaded) usually have 8-ohm speakers instead of 16-ohm. This might also account for a smoother top end. I know that with a Mesa 4x12 Traditional, the Treble and Presence need to be goosed quite high on my VH-2 to get it where I want.
I've read/heard that Channel 1 of the VH2 is actually based on Channel 1 of the Paul, while Channel 2 of the VH2 is a slightly gainier and more "modern" sounding version of Channel 3 of the VH4.
I'm using a Mesa 4x12 Traditional (rear-loaded 8-ohm v30s) with my VH2. I have to crank the treble and presence pretty high for channel 2, otherwise it is a little too smooth for my taste. I imagine this would be less of an "issue" with a front-loaded cabinet.
@angelspade
Besides using 6L6s, you might also try a quick modification by moving the negative feedback from the 8ohm tap to the 4ohm tap on the output transformer. You can find details here:
https://www.rig-talk.com/forum/threads/collection-of-all-kind-of-diezel-modifications.208989/#post-2315750
I was originally waiting for the mini, but ultimately went with the VH2. The amp has excellent Channel/Master controls, capable of “restroom volume”. If you can deal with the size and weight, don’t let the 100W rating scare you off!