Of course, how they sound is also greatly affected by their other gear, especially speakers. You really have to try any pre/pro out in your system in order to fully judge how one will sound...
As for JJ, he has some very nice systems, and based on his use of Maggies(very revealing) and his preference for the tubed sound, I am not suprised that he preferred the Anthem, or maybe even would have liked a Ref 30 in comparison to the Outlaw. The Anthem looks like a very nice match for the rest of his gear and his tastes.

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Take Care,
merc