I actually think that AA.com is pretty good. UAL.bomb is horriffic and AA.com is reliable, fast, and easy to use. Its not the prettiest website in the business and lacks some functionality (i.e. open jaw or partner award trips like Alaskaair.com or continental.com) but I find it quite useful.

Im not sure that even if AA.com were not the best website that I would not book trips on AA metal just because of that. Remember you can always book on orbitz or travelocity, etc (albeit at times for a higher price).