You'd be okay with the HOB filters, they just don't leave alot of room for bio-media, and in my experience don't create enough water movement to stir up debris on the bottom. A powerhead could be added to help increase the flow, but then you've got some fairly slow-water fish in a rapid stream, lol. You sound happiest with the idea of the HOB's. Just figure on needing to do alot of housecleaning during frequent water changes.