i use several different brands of canisters on various tanks and havent had any problems, you just have to be careful and if something doesnt fit just right dont try and force it thats where problems happen and bad experiences. cheap does NOT mean bad quality operator error is generally the problem, so take your time and dont try and force parts to fit if they dont fit there is a reason. and i like the ribbed fluval hoses but if you dont you can always buy some hose from home depot etc. and replace them quite cheap.