I'm originally from Jackson, Tn. and had the pleasure of meeting Bill on several occasions. Back in the 70's & early 80's, players would come through Jackson to check out his cues, and also to get a game up at Buddy's pool hall. Some of the best pool players I've ever watched in person would come through town and play our locals... Cecil Maxwell, Keith Hamilton, & Danny Green to name a few. I remember a guy named Steve Mizerak walked into Buddy's and beat Cecil to the point of tears. Those were the good ol' days!
Anyway, I consider Bill McDaniel cues to be the best on the market. I've played with a Sugartree on several occasions (never owned one), and I can attest to the "stiff hit" reputation they have. It's all in what you get use to... in other words, play every day for 6 months with a house cue and it will become part of your arm.
I'd say you're splittin hairs, but my money would be spent on the McDaniel.