I think the UI on just about everything I own is going downhill. It's that flat 2D thing that everyone needs for their phones and tablets. The 2 Fab Filter plugs I own are very modern looking and I don't care for it but the sound quality is amazing. On the other end of the spectrum are the Waves Abbey Road plugs. They look like the gear, but just like the originals they are not intuitive to use. 
 
For both the sound and the look I love the Softube stuff. Unfortunately I can't buy in because of the iLock thing.

ampfixer
 
For both the sound and the look I love the Softube stuff. Unfortunately I can't buy in because of the iLock thing.

Agreed on the iLok thingy. Softube makes great plugins. I have most of the Native Instrument / Softube plugins that don't require iLok.

I really like the sound of the Native Instruments plugs and the simple layouts.

Second that on native instruments and simple layouts 

waves:  
if you stick to the basic 'big-dog' plugs, 
they are great.
I HAVEN'T USED a better more transparent limiter than the L2 (mastering plug only)
i use the L1 on individual tracks and busses.
 
that said, i haven't used the L3.
my guess is, i don't really need that.
 
 
the LMB comp is really nice....
 
i use the RComp, RdEEsser, REQ, MaxxBass, Doubler, Super tap, Liner Phase EQ, and that's all.
 
 
 

batsbrew
waves:  
if you stick to the basic 'big-dog' plugs, 
they are great.
I HAVEN'T USED a better more transparent limiter than the L2 (mastering plug only)
i use the L1 on individual tracks and busses.
 
that said, i haven't used the L3.
my guess is, i don't really need that.
 
 
the LMB comp is really nice....
 
i use the RComp, RdEEsser, REQ, MaxxBass, Doubler, Super tap, Liner Phase EQ, and that's all.
 
 
 

I've used the L3. You aren't missing anything...I actually think it sounds harsh. L2 is still my favorite, though I still use the L1 as well.
 
Regards,
Dan