Well, update...didn't want people to think i've abandoned this! I've ordered and recieved my filters for the tank. Now all that is left is to get the wood for the stand, and the LED supplies. The LEDs will be my next project, and the stand will come a little bit closer to when the tank is done.
I'm thinking about tank backgrounds now. I've always liked the look of a 3D background, but I'm concerned that it might limit the depth perception in the tank. With a dark or all black background the tank seems to fade off into the distance. With a 3D background its like looking at the bank of the river from the river, which can be good but I haven't decided yet. I've thought about using some car window tint for easy removal and I can darken it as I see fit with more layers or darker material, it also gives me the option to backlight this tank and maybe get a sunset/sunrise type of effect.