Anyone use a Fluval C series power filter?

I have a C3 on a 20 gallon, but I just moved it over to my 40 gal. I have a whisper 4 on the same tank, but I'm looking to switch to a canister.

My impression of C3 is that it did a good job. I had it way overstocked for it to be adequately rated. I've had trouble in the past with bio-wheels, so I'm not fond of them.

Pros:
I thought it was quiet.
Did a good job filtering a heavy load.
Easy to clean (everything just fits right in)
Can make your own media.

Cons:
I had to buy an extension piece which I could only find from the supplier (12 bucks with shipping)
The replacement media isn't widely available (it's new, but not that new)
I had trouble taking off the skimmer end piece for cleaning.

Instead of purchasing the foam pads, I just got a roll of matting, and I cut it to fit. It worked great. I don't like how all the newer filters require you to buy their special cartridges that are over priced.

Would I get another one? yeah, i would.

Fluval C series is the best

I have a C4 on my 29 gallon and a C3 plus an AquaClear 50 on my 38 gallon. Both filters represent the best on the market but the C series five stage filtration vs 3 stage for the aquaclear makes a world of difference in terms of crystal clear polished water that makes the fish look like they are swimming in air.

The AquaClear does not have a polishing pad. This means you can just rinse the "brick" sponge in aquarium water and rarely have to change it. However, unless you use tightly packed floss or blue bonded polishing pad in lieu of carbon, you will get clear water ..... but not the polished look of using a canister filter like the Fluval C series give you.

I use the bio-max type stuff from the factory in both for beneficial bacteria. Carbon is a waste and not needed. For chemical filtration, I use SeaChem Purigen.

I don't by factory inserts. In my Fluval C's, I get crystal clear polished water by using cut to fit Acurel debris reducing pad followed by cut to fit Aquatic Life a00 micron non-woven polishing pad

Amazon.com: Aquatic Life Media Non-Woven White Pad for Aquarium Filter, 100-Micron: Pet Supplies

Amazingly, Petsmart Pensacola sells it for $10 when amazon wants $13. It works miracles but clogs fast and cannot be rinsed because the debris is so fine it becomes embedded in the pad. The cut to fit pads cost about 35 cents per application ..... and I change them weekly. A small price to pay for awesome clear polished water that makes both my aquariums look like a "showplace."

Also, on all three filters, I use the Fluval Edge pre-filter sponge. And, I do use and recommend the extension tube for the Fluval C3 mentioned above.