I prefer AR pumps. I've never owned any other pump, but ive been around cat pumps, hawk pumps, and general pumps as well and the AR pump has been the longest lasting one. I am currently running an AR SXMV4G40 (4000@4gpm direct drive) and ive been using it for about 2 years. Its been a great little pump. Couldnt be happier....
I have always used AR (with one or two Comets as well) and gotten excellent service from them. Usually, I have had to replace the seals every 1000 hours or so - about once per year. This has been consistent with a 4/4000 direct drive, 4/3500 direct drive and an 8/3000 belt drive. I mostly do residential, downstreaming and using a surface cleaner (Big Guy on the driveway.