I, too, was actually considering the Anthem AVM30 when I was looking to upgrade to my first pre/pro/stack. I fell in locve with its clarity when I demo'd it with the speakers I currently own (Paradigm studios) at a boutique HT store. As much as I liked the Anthem, it was just a bit out of my price range. So I looked at Outlaw.

For me, I like the minimalist approach. I look at the Outlaw this way (and bear in mind my opinion is coming from someone who is a new Outlaw owner and still awaiting the gear's arrival), its much like the Dodge Coronet of the late 60's; utilitarian looks, but with the 440 big block it would out-perform just about anything else on the road. My point is that looks don't necessarily make the component. Albeit, they can be a deal-breaker, but for the money you can't discredit the 990.

Are the Lexicon and Anthem models likely to be better? Probably. Given their storied past and penchant for first rate equipment, that's probably a given. But I personally don't make enough money to justify purchasing their equipment. So, I gave the 990 a shot. Not exactly a supermodel with regards to looks, but, in my opinion, much better looking than many of the competitors' offerings.

As Gonk put it, "Your mileage may vary". Looks are truly a subjective discussion. If you don't like the looks, then consider the quality and then determine for yourself if you can live with its utilitarian design. Ultimately, whatever makes you happiest is what the best equipment is for you.