Regular Glass or Starphire?

I am in the design process of my build once I move (getting close!). I am talking with a few manufacturers about my tank. Each offers a Starphire upgrade. I will be doing a "see-through" tank, where the long panes will both be viewable, and the sides will house the overflows, and be built in cabinets. I want to hear from people who have Starphire tanks, and who have had regular glass tanks. The quotes I am getting are $300-$500 more for Starphire panes...quite an increase. Is the difference "astounding?" If I buy the regular glass, will I kick myself for not upgrading?

Thanks!

 

IMO i dont think it makes that much diff for the price as I have been looking to build my own tank also, now if it was for mass public veiwing all the time i would opt for it but mine isnt. If i go to my LFS this weekend that has a 120gal all starfire tank ill take a picture.

 

Unfortunately, not one LFS here carries Starphire tanks. Only for special order, so I can't see the difference myself. I know that acrylic is completely clear, and have seen the glass/acrylic comparison side by side...didn't see much difference coral color-wise.

 

I think this tank was a special built tank it has starfire built in overflows also i think its cost is something like 1300 for the tank.

 

Most people seem like it. You probably won't notice it unless you look at two tanks side by side. It is a lot clearer though when you do see the difference. It also scratches easier, so, that is a consideration for some. It's a heck of a lot tougher than say acrylic though, so, if you would consider acrylic, then starfire is a no-brainer. I thought about it, but ended up with regular glass. Personally once the MH fires up, I don't notice any green tint and don't think about it. Once you get used to it though I'm sure you would LOL.

 

I just went to a friend of mines to pick up some frags, and he has a 102 gallon rimless cube that is starphire made from reef savvy out of Miami. This tank was an absolute thing of beauty, and I personally could tell the difference immediately. His setup is immaculate, and his lighting as well, and I'm sure that has something to do with the the appearence. But I'm telling you the clearness was obvious to me.

Here are a couple of pics from my phone, which really do it no justice.

 

The front pain of glass on my 150 is made of starphire. Like m2434 said. It is clearer but not too noticeable. Unless u just have the money to spend on it I would just go with regular glass