Which one is a better ball, period ? And,
which one is more versatile for medium to heavier volumes of oil ?

Thanks.

Thanks for the advice.

I went with the Black Pearl - first league game right after drilling it bowled a 247, put it away middle of second game.  Next league night used it first two games and bowled 236, and 248.  Awesome ball - very forgiving for slight mistakes in speed and/or hand position.  Reads the oil and dry very evenly (no over-under), consistent reaction and great pin carry.  Very satisfied customer.

Just curious about a few things:
I've noticed the ball comes back on the return with no oil on it, and I have to wipe ball cleaner off very quickly or it soaks into the coverstock.  Does this mean I'll need to do oil-extraction often ?  I'm a little wary of using the cleaner that came with the ball as it smells like acetone - is this cleaner legal ?  Doesn't it actually break down the coverstock ?
What kind of longevity have you seen with your Black Pearls ?
Other maintenance issues I should be aware of ?

As always, thanks in advance for any information you may provide.

Agreed.  The Black Pearl is very durable and requires little maintenance.  Lanemasters ball cleaner does not harm the coverstock or reaction and is one of the few cleaners out there that cleans off stubborn belt marks and other gunk quickly and without much elbow grease.