Opinions please, best type of HOB filter

aqua clear IMO
as far as all-around, i dunno how you can beat AC

I agree. The best I've used are AquaClears. I have heard really good things about the new Aqueon HOBs, but I have yet to try one.

I prefer marineland, but all my current HOB's are whisper

Aquaclears (based on reputation since I've never used one) and Emperors (based on personal experience)

emperor fan here! use 4 currently no problems

aqua clear

I've used numerous Marineland BioWheel filters with 0 problems, I have three running currently and gave one large one to a friend which is also still running which is 5 years old. One of mine is as well, the others are the newer style but work just as well. I would highly reccomend them. I also just ordered an Aquaclear 110 to try out, but I don't have it yet so I won't give any opinion on that one.

Aquaclear

I still have the first Emperor 400 I ever bought, it's over 11 years old and still going strong. Aquaclear is a very good HOB as well.