Nothing much wrong with your statement at all, as it comes down to personal preference, all people can talk about is their own experiences.
Without going into G&L too much, build quality is amazing, but those MFD pick ups Are properly marmite-that’s probably it’s biggest failing.
Sound wise - as you say we all have our own ideas, I defo wouldn’t say they are characterless, but that’s me, it’s a shame you can’t try one at the moment to see whether or not in your hands it works for you.
Value - second hand the value drops more comparing the ranges starting prices in Sandberg, that just means it’s more bargain territory in my eyes.
What are we left with to differentiate As there are subjective matters here - customer service, I know Hölger and Mike have driven huge distances In a day to sort out a bass for one of theiR artists that was damaged in transit on the day of a show, taking a rescue kit and doing it backstage. Ask @CameronJ about his personal service. He bought an Electra (‘budget’ range) second hand and broke a tuning peg, his own fault (clumsy man!). Emailed Sandberg asking about where to buy a replacement - the owner Hölger personally replied and sent one out for free.
Thats a big reason why I would choose Sandberg over other companies - you wouldn’t see the CEO/owner of most companies doing that.
whatever you get - I hope you enjoy tho