That's actually really strange to hear.  I've been riding AR5s for 3 seasons now, and, although they have worn in, they are, and always have been noodles.  I had assumed this may be because of my size (6' 170), but your comment negates that theory.  Then again, I'm riding 04/05s, so maybe the design change accounts for some of that difference in opinion.
I've only flexed STLs, and they seemed softer than the AR5s, but not by much.  Compared to the Surface Watch Lifes (which I do not find to be TOO stiff), both the STLs and the AR5s are extremely soft.  The Watch Lifes, I'm hoping, will fulfill my need for a stiffer and lighter park ski.