If I wanted a head unit that was to be the command center of a high-end install with multiple outboard amps, electronic equalization, component speakers, and high performance sub(s), I'd go with the Alpine.
If I wanted a head unit to power some nice drop-ins (like the Crystal CSx570's) and maybe even a sub (or subs) off of the rear channels, I'd choose the Panasonic. It would be my choice for a simple install of a "drop-in" system.
Looks are really in the eye of the beholder. You'll have to make that decision. Both decks have tons of expansion capabilities.
IMO, extremely tweakable decks with multiple and complex adjustments can be irritating. I've got a Clarion Pro Audio HX-D10 in my truck with an external DSP. It has an incredible amount of tweaks/adjustments/settings available. I ended up using the simple mode because it was just too much.
You really need to quit agonizing over these decisions and just friggin' pick something already!!!
