I have (but don't use) a Cascade 1000 and while it seems to perform well, the ease of use in comparison to the Fluval 406 (which I would recommend less than the cascade) and the Filstar xp3 (a series I highly recommend) is terrible. It lacks the easy release for the outlet/inlet tubes that the latter two have and the attachments are much longer and stiffer which makes it a pain to work with in tight spaces. HOB is better. Canister will work but you can't get lazy - needs frequent maintenance.