Can someone give me some good information on a comparison between these boards? I have an absolute right now and maybe be switching to a substance. I just feel that the absolute is alittle to unforgiving for me with its pop and is alittle to slow for me on edge with the big three stage. The areas I am most concerned with are the difference in pop, speed, and how loose it is and how it transitions into the cut.

Demo it. That's the only way you'll know for sure.

The Absolute has a subtle 3-stage rocker. Try some different fins or even finless to see if you can find a comfort level on the board.