"Larry Bohen" wrote in message
...
I'm buying a new aquarium, probably a 46 gallon bowfront and would like
to
know:

1. which material is best, acrylic or glass?

Define 'best'. They are both transparent ;~). Acrylic is lighter, will
absorb impacts better, marks easier, repairs easier.

2. which manufacturer is best?

Again, define 'best'. All-Glass & Oceanic are often referenced as very
high quality manufacturers in North America (like pieces of fine
furniture). DAS systems also has some nice pieces being introduced.
Hagen makes quality tanks which are more conventional glass rectangles.
The 46 bow is (I believe) an Oceanic glass construct, guaranteed for life
when used on their stand (and usually bowfronts are used on bow stands
;o).

3. One acrylic unit I am looking at has a wet/dry filter built-in the
back.
Is this a good idea?

If you want a built-in wet/dry filter, it might be (if the size is good
and it's accessible). I personally would not see it as a selling point,
as I like more flexibility in selecting the filter I will use by the
application. ymmv

4. are there online sources of independent aquarium reviews?

You can google the newsgroup archives, as it's been discussed ad nauseum.
Acrylic has won over many fans.
http://www.tanked.netfirms.com/acrylic.html

Sometimes your choice depends on what is available, in the tank
size/shape you want, at the price you want.

NetMax

Thanks in advance.
--
Larry Bohen
www.audiobooksonline.com