Collings and Santa Cruz are two of my favorite makers and I've owned several guitars from each company. They each make great guitars and I'd be hard-pressed to choose a favorite. Collings is maybe more more consistent, and they're definitely better at fit and finish, but even so I'd choose a great SC over a "merely" good Collings and vice versa.
As for particular recommendations, I suggest you investigate (as others have already suggested) the Santa Cruz OM/PW and the Collings OM2H. Both are "small" guitars with a huge sound.
Also keep your eyes out for a Collings OM Deep Body. OM shape with dreadnought depth. It might be exactly what you're looking for: OM comfort and clarity with dreadnought-like bass.
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