Eddie, I see that you asked a question about the 17BII+. I ordered one just before Christmas. It sits in my laptop bag and I take it out when I need to perform some quick calcs. As far as a feature-to-feature comparison, they are almost identical. The only things that I noticed are:
-The testing menu is easier to use; you can select from various tests (like KBD or IR) from a menu, instead of remembering the keying sequence. In addition, the keyboard test lets you test in any order, which is nice.
-The currency exchange function (from the 19BII) has been added to the menu.
-There may be a bit more memory (I think it might have an extra K) but it's nothing material.
Now that I've talked function, let's talk form.
The case is much nicer then the late-model Pioneer cases. Also, the screen is bright with good contrast and clarity. Unfortunately, the calc seems much lighter than the old 17BII, and "feels" cheaper when you hold it in your hand. The colour scheme is OK, but I find the small enter key a problem.
As far as "bugs"; The "1" and "2" keys sometimes don't register, so I have to keep my eyes on the display (something that I'm not used to doing with older HPs). Also, after two weeks, it simply wouldn't turn on. I removed the batteries to no avail. Finally, I pushed the reset button, and it worked. It's been fine ever since.
I use a 12C at the office, and 17BIIs and 19BIIs for school, and to be honest, I'd take the "original" over the new one any day. Having said that, old HPs are harder to find, and are quite expensive, so if I was Joe Public (in other words, not a collector), I would buy the 17BII+.
In short, I wanted to get my hands on one, and when the 19BII+ comes out, I'll probably buy one too. It's great to keep around for quick calcs (plus, if someone steals it, I won't be heartbroken), but when I'm writing my finance exam, give me a 12C or a 17BII/19BII!!
Hope that helps!
B.
P.S. Anyone have news on the 19BII+? Any idea if and when it will be released??? What about pictures?