We just went through this process for SloanSpace so I'm all primed for graphic speak and on giving specific feedback.
I like the logo and download button from 2. It looks alive and speaks of a vibrant community. The colors hold your interest and Alex is cute.
I like the search box and login box placement on 1. Login box is too prominent on 2.
I'd like to see more of the whimsical use of color that is in the download button used on 2. For instance think more could be done with the login and search buttons to compliment the colorfull alive theme.
Not thrilled by the menu bar on the top on either of them. Again I think more of the life and color that we see in the download button could be applied here. I generally don't like all capitals and I don't think the caps work well in the menu bar. Capitals are harder to read and the menu across the top is actually where you want the quickest recognition.
Overall, they are both looking very good! Great start!
