It's interesting that you say the coverstocks have changed on recent AZO balls.
I had about 8 AZO balls before LM took them over. I didn't find the same "forgiveness" in the 2 I bought afterward. I e-mailed LM and asked what was different. They did respond, but only to give instructions in how to scuff or polish. So, they did change the coverstock, and for a mediocre bowler who needs some help from the ball(like me) the new doesn't work as well. Go figure.