The front should just come right off and the led's will stay put. At least that is the way it is on older arc gear.
Changing Front Panel on Audio Research Preamps
Has any one had any experience with changing the front panel/face plate on an Audio Research Preamp that has the LEDs? I have an LS16MKII and want to chance the front panel/face plate. It appears fairly easy as the front handles screws hold on the face plate but I am not sure about the LEDs inserted in the back of the front panel.