Hard plumbing vs flexible plumbing?

[AbdominalSnowman]

I am at the point where I need to decide if I am going to use PVC or flexible plumbing for my tank build. I understand that aesthetically hard plumbing looks better, but am wondering if there are any other advantages over flexible plumbing? Is hard plumbing quieter, or does it make maintenance easier? Any input is appreciated.

System spec:
- 60" x 30" x 20" Peninsula
- Trigger Systems Triton 44 Sump (In stand under tank)
- Sicce SDC 9.0 Return pump (Feeding two 3/4 returns)
- 58 Watt Aqua UV Sterilizer will be added during cycle (Will be fed off dedicated pump, and not from main return)
- Skimmer undecided, but leaning towards Eshopps S-200 Premium (thoughts on this appreciated as well)
- Lighting: 3 Orphek Atlantik Compacts

 

[Peach02]

Main differences are

Soft plumbing
- alot easier to do
- you can see water going through it

Hard plumbing
- can split pipe off easily if plumbed well
- can controll flow more with gate valves
- often looks better
- harder to do