New question for you old timers!

I am lookin at filters, the big 3 seem to be Eheim, Filstar, & Fluval. Form personal acounts, & reviews... it seems that the Fluval is out the window. So that brings it down to the Mercedes of Eheim, & the more economical Filstar. To me, the Rena Filstar XP 3 seems to give the best bang for the buck... However, I was wondering if any of you have had any experience with the Penn Plax Cascade Canisters??? They look nice, but I have been unable to find any opinions on them anywhere...

If you all have an opinion to share in regards to any of these filters, please post them!!! I would love to reach a higher level of enlightenment before I commit to a purchase!!!

*meditates on filters*

OMMMM OMMMM OMMMM