[Diddle E. Squat]

If it ain't with DLR, I ain't interested in Van Halen.

OMGosh, you can't be serious. The DLR era was awesome, but the Hagar years were equal or perhaps even better. Its like '64 Mustang convertible vs. '04 Pathfinder, both completely different but both outstanding in their own niche. "Dreams", "When Its Love", and the intro to "Love Walks In" are unsurpassed.

[Long Cut]

I'll use Diamond Dave's own words as to the Van Halen/Van Hagar comparison:

"Classic Van Halen made you want to drive fast, drink whiskey, and F***. The New Van Halen makes you want to go home, get a Nissan, and have a meaningful relationship."