Audio Research LS-16 Mk2 vs LS-17 preamp

Rwwear, just because a LS-16mkII sounds bad in one system doesn't mean it will sound bad in any other systems!
You take one experience and base your opinion on that and call it unbiased? Are you kidding me?
As mofimadness indicated, you would do well to read all of the good and positive reviews that have been written about the LS-16(audioreview.com,10audio.com,ciao.co.uk,youngblood systems.com to name a few)then you might figure out who can hear and who can't.

Bravo Mofimadness for your response to Rwwear, I totally agree. I to have had the LS-16mkII and found it to be(in my system)just as Mofimadness articulated a very good preamp in that price range.
Valhalla, I like nobody else can tell you how a component is going to sound in your system because so many other vaiables come into play such as: associated equipment, speakers, cables(interconnect & power)and room size. It would be helpful however to know what other components makeup the rest of your system.
To conclude, I would like to quote Art Dudley who I think summed it up best when he said "Most domestic playback products have a sound all their own.
The effectiveness of most domestic playback products very much depends on the rest of the system with which they will be used, as well as the room, the climate and the physiology and the psychology of the listerner"
I think most folks who utilize this forum would do well to consider these words before responding to questions about different components and their sound.

Rwwear, What leader am I following? I have my opinion just like you have yours! and I stated it and mine was based on having owned the LS-16mkII for 3yrs. not one week!! Just because I happened to agree with someone else doesn't mean I'm playing follow the leader!
I have had and currently have ARC systems for 25 yrs.(not that I haven't tried other products)and find their products to be of high quality and a pleasure to listen to as has been voiced by many others.(again check the reviews)
As far as ARC disliking their own products because they continuely improve upon them, that's what their name indicates "research"(duh) They're constantly researching how to make their products better! That doesn't mean you have to change every time they do.(you don't buy a new car every year because GM Ford or Chrysler or whoever comes out with a new model do you?).
I currently have the LS-25mkII and am happy with it. I didn't feel a real urge to run out and buy the LS-26 when it came out even though I know it is better( yes I heard it)
Finally, they don't change their products every year. ARC products have a minimum 3yr.run