Arrogant Bastard is personal favorite so I completely get it. Stone IPA left no positive or negative impression on me. I know I have had it but can't remember it.
Someone here mention the Bastard was just base (I believe Pale 2row) and Special B. I can completely believe that. I put Special B in almost everything!
I heard Caraaroma but that's basically the same thing as Special B. Great stuff, a little goes a long way.
I like using a liiiiiittle bit of the malts that people like using for darker beers in lighter beers. A tiny bit of Special B or Caraaroma is great in a pale beer as is just a bit of brown malt. Gives you flavor without much sweetness.