What should I do?

Jack, I think that the 16LS is a better sounding preamp than the 17LS, but I don't know about the 17LS2. The 16LS had a lot of the ART technology in it's construction. I have read that the upgrades from the 17LS to the 17LS2 are like night and day and the LS2 is far superior. However, I wasn't insinuating that any of these preamps were unacceptable. They are all excellent and in all likelihood you will be very happy with the sonics of any of them. I hope that if I ever reach your age that I will still enjoy my music.

Thanks guys for youre help. Partially on the basis of your input I have purchased the 17 LS2. and am anxiously awaiting its' arrival. It comes from the Minneapolis area, and luckly my daughter who lives in Minneapolis is coming down Thurs... and will pick up the new baby and void the shipping cost.Up AT FIVE. hAD MY PRUNES AND READY FOR A NEW DAY. Have a good listen Jack North11788

Jack
You have given me renewed hope.I am 68 and was hesitant in purchasing the new speakers I desperately want.
After reading your posts I was on the phone this morning completing the deal.Thank you and the best of luck with the
17 LS2

I'll add my congratulations and best wishes, but take a bye on those new speakers. I did buy some green bananas though :-)

Dave