Reality Check: What Are Some Good eCommerce Platforms?

Is it just me, or are 98% of all ecommerce platforms out there unbelievably awful? Miva, 3DCart, OScommerce, Volusion, AspDotNet, ModularMerchant, ZenCart - their admin panels and checkout processes look like they were designed in 1992 by a 7th grader.

I'm aware of Magento but they don't offer support without their premium package ($10k a year). I'm aware of Interspire but I have heard horror stories about their support. I'm aware of CS-Cart, who has a beautiful checkout process.

Why aren't there any GOOD ecommerce platforms out there that are the whole package? Aesthetics count! Features count! Support is critical! Help!