What's wrong with google groups? I use it. I haven't found anything wrong with it. It's better than the dotcom they took over to provide the service. When I can't remember the name of the company to bitch about it being taken over and how much better it was it's usually an indicator the takeover was sucessful.
Anyway, It's is easier to read. I tried using a email based reader and I find it a pain in the ass. The web based is much better and I can access it anywhere.
The only complaint I have it that I have to re-sign into my account every few months obstensively for security reasons. Those bastards!!!!