I have used 1and1 for years without problems.  I used several others prior to 1and1 and would never want to go back.  I have never had to use tech assistance - their tools for self service are excellent.  I manage multiple domains and mailboxes from the admin panel.  It's fairly intuitive.  In my experience their pricing is very competitive (if not the cheapest available).

Klebnor

Lotus 123 ~ S-Render ~ OS/2 WARP ~ IBM 8088 / 4.77 Mhz ~ Hercules Ultima graphics, Hitachi 10 MB HDD, 64K RAM, 12 in diagonal CRT Monitor (16 colors / 60 Hz refresh rate), 240 Watt PS, Dual 1.44 MB Floppies, 2 button mouse input device.  Beige horizontal case.  I don't display my unit.