I have to say I have never had an aquaclear but I have 4 emporer 400's and they haven't let me down yet. as for the carbon just take one of the cartridges and cut the top open. remove the carbon and fill it with whatever, filter floss or other media.. then to maintain throw the filter floss away and rinse the cartridge.. I think I will try an aquaclear soon though so I know whats out there.. also I run the emporer 400's on my 29 gallons. because of the small price difference I always buy the 400 instead of the 280 and if the current is to strong just turn the filter down. I have no problem with the flow all the way up though.